Agritech Cluster gathering – A Blossoming Development

Skrevet av Andreas Amdal Østerem | Oct 24, 2024 11:00:00 PM

The Agritech network is in a growth phase, expanding with several exciting projects and incredible input from its members! Like well watered and fed plants, our Agritech Cluster is starting to really bloom; Nordic Edge recently held a cluster gathering at Øksnevad Vgs to help members be inspired, network, and accelerate their growth.

Photo: Gunnar Crawford greeting the attendees with Jack Davis

Our focus for this cluster meeting was on the advancement of sustainable agriculture through technology and collaboration.

With a comprehensive status of the Agritech network we were excited to discuss our ongoing projects, future directions, and show off some new presentations by members from Wastech, Agdir, and Serigstad.

Not only this, but we found time to present funding opportunities from Innovation Norway, Rogaland County, and the EU’s Farmtopia initiative. Things we are building on daily!

Key highlights:

Main Projects: themes around circular agriculture, soil health, and innovative farming technologies (precision agriculture, water management, robotics, and much more.).

Challenges & Opportunities: There was a strong emphasis on data-driven Agritech, digital farming – a low-hanging fruit in Agritech. Collaboration among small and large companies within the network was a key opportunity for breaching current barriers. Jack Davies also presented the latest work from Nordic Edge tackling information accessibility and the use of AI.

Main Themes from the Cluster Gathering

During the gathering, members were asked to write down thematic areas they wanted to focus on. The goal was to create different thematic discussions where members could give the cluster vital input on their areas of focus.

Agricultural Technology

Smart farming solutions and data collection, where can we exchange and build a better starting point from?
Sensor technology and agricultural sensors
Drones, automation, and machine learning
Needed standards for Agritech and data platforms

Agronomy and Biological Innovation

Soil-plant interactions and agronomy
Plant breeding for future challenges
Fertilizer, feed production, and biogas processing

Sustainability and Energy

Energy in agriculture had a highlight – both production and regulation
Food waste management and biochar/biogas, where momentum is growing in the field

Investment and Policy

Investments in Agritech are much needed, financing, and support schemes need to bolster both companies and farmers
Collaboration between the private sector and public sector, and political influence are meaningful drivers

Education and Competence Development

Future-oriented education for agriculture – what is the future state of Norwegian farming and what does the industry need for it?

Advancing the sector together

The gathering demonstrated significant interest in the integration of technology, sustainability, and investments in Agritech. Participants emphasized the need for testing grounds, financial support, and educational initiatives to advance the sector.

As a network we see that collaborations, testing, communication, and of course finance are essential aspects where Nordic Edge can advance innovation and its member’s goals and ambitions. With the upcoming Agritech Connect and Tested In sites; new financing opportunities; and collaborations being built around the Nordics (and UK), we expect to deliver!

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