ABOUT the 9th AVF Summit
Global Food Challenges: Vertical Farming as a Catalyst for Innovation & Climate Action
The AVF Summit 2025 brings together global stakeholders from science, policy, technology, and industry to discuss the future of food production in the face of ecological, geopolitical, and urban challenges. The two-day program is structured along six thematic pillars:
Pillar 1 – International Perspectives
Exploring Global Trends, Policies, and Success Stories in Vertical Farming
This track explores how different countries and regions implement vertical farming into broader sustainability and food security strategies. Contributions highlight policy developments, public-private partnerships, and region-specific success stories from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and beyond. The session also includes a dedicated panel on Women in AgTech, addressing leadership, innovation, and systemic barriers in the sector.
Pillar 2 – Vertical Farming – A Catalyst for Climate Action
Pillar 2 – Climate Action and CO₂ Accounting
Vertical farming systems offer a unique opportunity to reduce emissions, optimize resource use, and improve transparency in agricultural value chains. This pillar examines the methodologies and practical approaches behind greenhouse gas accounting in CEA, including the role of energy systems, infrastructure choices, and data collection frameworks. Discussions will also focus on improving energy performance in vertical farms and reducing environmental impacts through system design and operational innovation.
Pillar 3 – Innovative CEA Production and Investment
This pillar will address trends, challenges, and breakthroughs in sustainable food production
This pillar looks at innovation in crop systems, input materials, and production methods for controlled environments. Topics include microalgae cultivation, functional foods, and the potential of alternative proteins such as insect-based ingredients. In addition, Kelpinor presents its kelp-derived biostimulants designed for vertical farming applications – with a focus on improved plant health, higher efficiency in photosynthetic processes, and reduced dependence on artificial lighting. Investment panels explore funding strategies and commercialization pathways for AgTech ventures in a changing economic environment.
September 4th (Thursday)
Pillar 4 – “Urban Food Systems: Cities as Innovation Hubs for Sustainable Farming”
Urban agriculture is increasingly recognized as a strategic component of food system resilience. This pillar showcases examples from cities including Madrid, Singapore and Bangalore, with a focus on planning tools, governance models, and infrastructure integration. Topics include decentralized production, circular resource flows, and the role of local authorities in enabling innovation at the city level.
Key topics
- Decentralized Food Production: Examples of international metropolises that reduce their dependence on imports with the help of Vertical Farming.
- Incorporating vertical farming into urban infrastructure and planning.The role of city planning in fostering sustainable urban agriculture.
- Technologies for urban food hubs: automation, water efficiency, and energy solutions.
- Global best practices from cities
- City of Madrid presents its goals and activities
- City of Bangalore
- Scotland Living Lab
Pillar 5 – Startup Challenge
Showcasing the Next Generation of AgTech & Food Innovation
Innovation is the driving force behind the future of sustainable food production. The Startup Challenge at the 9th AVF Summit provides a platform for emerging companies to showcase their cutting-edge solutions in vertical farming, AgTech, alternative proteins, and photonics. This competition will spotlight 10 high-potential startups, offering them the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel of industry leaders, investors, and international organizations.
This is more than just a pitch competition—it’s a launchpad for funding, partnerships, and global exposure.
Applications can be handed in starting April 15th!
Pillar 6 – Science and Technology as a Driver for Innovation
The final pillar highlights current research and applied technology solutions in the field of vertical farming. Contributions span from microbiome dynamics in hydroponic systems to advances in AI, photonics, and digital twins. Presentations cover topics such as plant resilience, energy optimization, root system health, and interdisciplinary technology development in indoor growing environments.
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Our Vision:
The AVF acknowledges that vertical farming in its current state can provide access to fresh, safe, and sufficient food, independent of climate and location. In the decades to come, where overpopulation and severe planetary changes challenge our current way of life, vertical farming will become a necessary solution in global food production.
Our Mission:
The Association for Vertical Farming is the leading, global non-profit organisation for raising awareness and connecting all stakeholders to advance the implementation of vertical farming