INKOA SISTEMAS SL

Their core work

INKOA Sistemas is a Basque technology SME that develops automated monitoring and detection systems for environmental and agricultural applications. Their work spans autonomous pest detection in greenhouses using satellite positioning (Galileo), automatic bird detection for environmental monitoring, and bio-based material processing from poultry waste streams. They operate at the intersection of sensor technology, autonomous systems, and the agri-food value chain.

What they specialise in

How they've shifted over time

INKOA began its H2020 activity (2017–2018) focused on automated detection and monitoring — pest control robots in greenhouses and bird identification systems, both grounded in sensor technology and autonomous operations. By 2021, they pivoted toward the circular bioeconomy, joining UNLOCK to work on converting poultry feathers into keratin-based agricultural products and biodegradable plastics. This suggests a deliberate shift from pure monitoring technology toward applied agri-food sustainability, potentially using their systems expertise in new biological value chains.

INKOA is moving from sensor/monitoring hardware toward circular bioeconomy applications in agriculture, suggesting future interest in waste valorization and sustainable materials projects.

How they like to work

INKOA operates primarily as a contributing partner in larger consortia (2 of 3 projects), though they demonstrated initiative by coordinating eBIRDS through the SME Instrument Phase 1 — a feasibility study for their bird detection concept. With 20 unique partners across 11 countries from just 3 projects, they are comfortable in diverse, international consortia rather than sticking with familiar partners. Their small size and varied project topics suggest they bring specific technical components to larger teams.

Despite only three projects, INKOA has built a broad network of 20 partners across 11 countries, indicating comfort with diverse European consortia. No strong geographic clustering is evident — their partnerships span widely rather than concentrating in any single region.

What sets them apart

INKOA combines systems engineering and automated detection know-how with growing experience in agricultural bioeconomy — an unusual combination for a small Spanish SME. Their ability to move from Galileo-enabled robotics to feather waste valorization shows adaptability and a willingness to apply technology skills in new domains. For consortium builders, they offer a practical, technology-integration role that bridges digital monitoring and agri-food sustainability.

Highlights from their portfolio

• GREENPATROL
  Largest budget (EUR 275,478) and an ambitious combination of Galileo satellite tech with autonomous pest control robots for greenhouses.
• UNLOCK
  Marks a clear strategic pivot into circular bioeconomy, converting poultry feathers into keratin proteins and biodegradable plastics.
• eBIRDS
  Only project where INKOA served as coordinator, funded through SME Instrument Phase 1 for their own bird detection concept.