UpLink Annual Impact Report 2025
Page 19 of 37 · WEF_UpLink_Annual_Impact_Report_2025.pdf
Case study 1
Kilimo
Kilimo is revolutionizing water conservation in
food production with its innovative approach.
By establishing a unique business model, the
organization connects farmers looking to optimize
their irrigation practices with companies committed
to achieving water security goals. This enables farmers
worldwide to reduce water use by an impressive 30%,
addressing the global water crisis.
In 2022, Kilimo captured the attention of venture
capital pioneer and UpLink ecosystem partner,
Emerald Technology Ventures, after being selected
for the inaugural aquapreneur cohort. In June 2023,
Emerald led a $7.5 million investment round, joined
by notable investors such as The Yield Lab Latam,
Salkantay Ventures, Kamay Ventures and iThink. This
funding is a game-changer for Kilimo, enhancing its
efforts to expand and solidify its leadership. It supports
the company’s mission to connect corporations
with farmers committed to sustainable water use, offering solutions that help multinational and regional
companies achieve their water stewardship goals.
Kilimo’s work has attracted major global players
like Microsoft, Intel, Amazon, Google and Coca-
Cola, all of which are actively pursuing ambitious
water commitments.
With water demand projected to exceed supply
by 40% by 2030, Kilimo’s mission is increasingly
critical. The organization supports over 2,000
farmers across seven Latin American countries
and aims to restore 350 million metres cubed (m³)
of water by 2030. These efforts in Latin America
have been significantly bolstered through UpLink’s
Engagement Programme. By providing access to
global partners and increasing visibility, UpLink has
enabled Kilimo to amplify its impact, promoting
sustainable water use in agriculture and empowering
communities to create tangible positive change in
the global hydrosphere.
Credit: Kilimo
UpLink has been a pivotal partner for Kilimo, opening doors to key
opportunities that have fuelled our growth. Being part of Davos
and UN Water Week allowed us to amplify our mission and connect
with the right stakeholders. Through UpLink, we secured our Series
A with Emerald Technology Ventures and gained major customers
like Amazon and PepsiCo.
Jairo Trad
Chief Executive Officer, Kilimo
Uplink Annual Impact Report March 2025
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