From Labs to Fields: PathoScan’s Journey in SK Agtech

In this ‘Founder Feature’, we connected with Tayab, co-founder of PathoScan. Tayab provides a glimpse into his journey of becoming a co-founder of PathoScan, the motivation behind leading his own startup venture, and all the wins along the way!

Can you tell us about PathoScan and the problem it aims to solve?

PathoScan aims to revolutionize crop disease management by providing quick and accurate in-field testing kits. We’re solving the problem of long wait times and high costs associated with traditional lab-based testing, allowing farmers to make immediate, informed decisions to protect their crops and maximize yields.

From planting the seeds at Co.Hack by Co.Labs to joining the AGTECH ACCELERATOR program, securing the agtech growth fund, and even winning 5000 pounds at GRID, what were some of your peaks?

Honestly, the biggest peak has been working with an incredible team. Don’t get me wrong, winning our first grant at Co.Hack, joining the AGTECH ACCELERATOR program, securing the AGTECH Growth Fund, and even winning 5000 pounds at GRID were all important milestones. But the real highlight is waking up every day and putting in the long hours with a team that is passionate, driven, and just as excited about this journey as I am. That makes all the difference and is truly what makes this all worthwhile.

Coming from a full-time job to a full-time entrepreneur, why did you choose to continue as a founder? Are there any advantages to being a founder vs other career paths?

It’s many things, but the biggest reason is the stories I hear from struggling farmers and greenhouse producers. The visits and face-to-face interactions with these people are what keep me going as a founder. Coming from a science background, I never really had the chance to meet customers in this way before. In the big companies I’ve worked for, I was just a cog in the machine. But here, I get to directly impact people’s lives, that’s a very fulfilling experience. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the immediate effects of our work on the ground.

Can you share a significant milestone or achievement that your business has reached as a direct result of participating in the AGTECH ACCELERATOR program?

Participating in the AGTECH ACCELERATOR program has helped us in more ways than I can count, but by far the biggest perk is the access to the community. They say you’re the average of the five people you hang out with, and that really holds true here. The value of this accelerator is in being surrounded by companies that have walked the path we’re on and are always willing to lend a hand. Many of the clients we have met started from just a conversation with someone introduced to me by an accelerator alumnus or through connections at the accelerator. This network and the support it offers are incredibly valuable!

As someone who has been involved in many SK based programs, what have you learned about the SK tech ecosystem and support from founders?

The SK tech ecosystem is incredibly supportive and collaborative. One thing that really stands out is how everyone is willing to help each other out. Building relationships early with industry advisors and other founders has been key to our growth. The community is resourceful, and there’s a strong focus on mentorship and shared learning. It’s been amazing to see how willing people are to share their experiences and lend a hand when needed.

We’re inspired by Tayab’s unwavering commitment to agricultural innovation and can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.