The Ag Assist Story: Connecting the Farming Sector with Hardworking People

Back in 2021, I came across a book about Uber and Airbnb—platforms that revolutionized their industries by connecting people directly. At the time, I was an equity manager on a 650-cow farm, and like many in the farming sector, I knew firsthand the struggles of finding reliable workers, especially when Covid-19 disrupted New Zealand’s labor market. That’s when the lightbulb moment happened. Over a beer and a chat with Lincoln University students, I gained insight into their work challenges. Many students—along with stay-at-home parents, semi-retired individuals, and others looking for extra income—were keen to work, but there was no clear, easy way for farming businesses to connect with them.

Building the Bridge Between Farming Businesses and Workers

By the end of 2021, the Ag Assist concept was born—a platform designed to connect hardworking Kiwis with businesses in the farming sector. Unlike traditional recruitment, Ag Assist is a marketplace where businesses can post jobs, find casual employees, and connect with independent contractors and service providers.

We knew this wasn’t just about filling gaps—it was about creating a more efficient, flexible workforce. Farmers have ongoing staffing challenges, and we wanted to provide another tool in the toolbox to ease that pressure.

From a Local Pilot to a Thriving Platform

In early 2022, we quietly launched a pilot version in Selwyn, Canterbury. The response was massive—over 14,000 hours of work completed in a short period. These weren’t just hours worked; they were real solutions for farmers, proving that a reliable labor source exists within local communities.

By March 2023, we knew we had something special. With a successful capital raise and 13 new shareholders, we refined our approach and launched Ag Assist Version 2 in November 2023.

What’s Next for Ag Assist?

Ag Assist has grown into New Zealand’s go-to marketplace for the food and fiber sector, connecting businesses with the right people—whether it’s hiring casual employees, finding independent contractors, or securing ag services. With a growing community and an evolving platform, we’re just getting started. Cheers to growth, innovation, hardworking Kiwis, and the future of the New Zealand farming sector!