Meet our Analyst: Pedro Jábali

Why did you specialize in the agro and food sectors, and when did you start?

My passion for the ag & food sectors is deeply rooted in my personal and professional background. Coming from a family that has been involved in agriculture for generations, particularly my grandfather who is a rural producer, I have always been close to the land and the agricultural community. This lifelong connection with the ag sector naturally led me to focus my career in this field. Professionally, my journey began with a consultancy dedicated entirely to the agriculture sector (Markestrat), where I gained invaluable insights and experience. This path ultimately brought me to SP Ventures, where I can merge my personal passion with professional expertise to invest in and support innovative startups across the entire agribusiness value chain in Latin America.

How do you view the opportunities in agriculture technology companies to transform the sector?

I see tremendous potential in Ag & Food Tech Space to revolutionize the sector. The integration of advanced technologies can address some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture, such as sustainability, productivity, and efficiency. Innovations in areas like precision farming, biotechnology, Ag Fintechs, supply chain optimization, and digital farming platforms can significantly enhance crop yields, reduce environmental impact, and improve the overall profitability of farming operations. These technologies also empower farmers with data-driven insights and tools to make better-informed decisions, ultimately transforming traditional agricultural practices into more modern, efficient, and sustainable operations.

In your opinion, what is the most important factor for an early-stage startup to achieve success?

In my opinion, the principal factor an early-stage startup needs to achieve success is the strength of its team. I firmly believe that having a dedicated, skilled, and passionate team is crucial because we need to be 100% confident that this team will be capable of realizing the ambitious vision they aspire to achieve. The right team can navigate challenges, pivot when necessary, and drive the company forward with relentless determination and innovative thinking. Without a strong team, even the best ideas can falter, but with the right people, almost any challenge can be overcome.

Do you have a personal quote that guides your life?

"Passion drives purpose, and purpose drives success." This motto reflects my belief that being deeply passionate about what you do leads to a strong sense of purpose, which in turn drives you towards achieving success.

Do you have any hobbies that bring you joy?

Yes, I have several hobbies that bring me immense joy. I love spending time in the countryside, which keeps me connected to my roots and the agricultural world. Additionally, I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, which allow me to appreciate nature and the environment I’m so passionate about.

Interview conducted with Pedro Jábali

Pedro Jábali is an Analyst at SP Ventures, São Paulo, Brazil.