ABOUT the 9th AVF Summit
Pillar 1 – International Perspectives
Exploring Global Trends, Policies, and Success Stories in Vertical Farming
As the climate crisis, geopolitical instability and ecosystem destruction continue to challenge global food security, vertical farming is emerging as a critical solution for resiliently producing fresh, nutritious food.
This pillar will provide attendees with valuable insights into how different regions are adopting and scaling vertical farming solutions, the policies shaping the industry, and the role of AgTech in transforming global food systems.
Key Topics
- The Role of Vertical Farming in Climate Action and Food Security – How controlled environment agriculture (CEA) can contribute to carbon neutrality, reduce water use, and mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities.
- Success Stories from Around the World – Lessons from pioneering countries such as Singapore, Japan, Europe, and the USA, where vertical farming has been successfully integrated into urban food systems.
- AgTech Innovation for Food Security in MENA – Addressing the region’s unique challenges, including water scarcity, extreme climates, and import dependency, by leveraging cutting-edge agricultural technology.
- Governmental Strategies & Policies for Climate-Resilient Agriculture – A discussion with international policymakers on how different regions are creating regulatory frameworks, incentives, and public-private partnerships to support the growth of the vertical farming industry.
- Women in Ag Tech: Sharing experience and guidance
Pillar 2 – Vertical Farming – A Catalyst for Climate Action
Diving deep into how Vertical Farming Contributes to Sustainability, Climate Resilience, and Carbon Reduction.
As the world seeks urgent solutions to climate change, food systems must adapt to produce more with fewer resources. Vertical farming has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, water usage, and land degradation, but how can it truly become a catalyst for climate action? This pillar will explore the role of vertical farming in decarbonizing agriculture, achieving sustainability goals, and contributing to climate resilience.
Keynote: Can Vertical Farming Be Part of the Solution?
Key Topics
- Global Answers to Climate Change and Food Production
- How can vertical farming help mitigate climate change?
- What role does it play in reducing food miles, deforestation, and excessive water use?
- Can vertical farming align with global sustainability initiatives such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement?
Product Carbon Footprint for Vertical Farming: A New Road to Sustainability & Carbon Credits (Presentation)
Key Topic
How can vertical farming quantify and reduce its carbon footprint?
- Understanding Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) for vertical farming operations
- The potential for carbon credits and incentives in sustainable vertical farming
- Best practices for energy efficiency, resource optimization, and emissions reduction
Bavarian Innovation as a Contribution to the Global UN-SDGs
Case Studies & Success Stories from Bavaria’s innovative agricultural initiatives that support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Introductory words by State of Bavaria Minister of Economics Mr. H. Aiwanger
Key Topics
- Collaboration between government, research institutions, and industry to promote sustainable agriculture
- Key policies and funding programs driving climate-positive AgTech innovation
- Practical examples of energy-efficient, climate-resilient vertical farms in Bavaria
(Bayfor/BayernInvest/TUM/Landesanstalt)
Pillar 3 – Innovative Food Production and Investment
This pillar will address trends, challenges, and breakthroughs in sustainable food production
Key Topics
Panel discussion: Microalgae Production and Innovative Products
Topics to address
- The role of microalgae in sustainable food and nutrition
- Scaling production for human and animal consumption
- New product developments in functional foods, alternative proteins, and nutraceuticals
- Investment opportunities and commercialization challenges
Topics to address
- How insect protein is reshaping human nutrition, animal feed, and pharmaceuticals
- Overcoming regulatory challenges and consumer acceptance
- Sustainable farming techniques for large-scale insect production
- The latest advancements in bioconversion, waste reduction, and functional ingredients
Panel discussion: Investment in the Future of Food: Navigating Growth & Scale
Topics to address
- Where is venture capital flowing in the alternative protein and AgTech sectors?
- How startups can attract funding and scale sustainably
- The role of impact investors, public funding, and corporate partnerships
- What investors look for in sustainable food innovation
September 4th (Thursday)
Pillar 4 – “Urban Food Systems: Cities as Innovation Hubs for Sustainable Farming”
Cities are at the heart of global food systems. This new pillar examines how urban agriculture and vertical farming can be integrated into sustainable and resilient urban environments.
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 Cologne
- City of Lagos
- 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
We present updates on current leading research and technology in CEA/indoor/VF.
Scientific breakthroughs and technological advancements are shaping the future of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) and Vertical Farming (VF). This pillar will highlight the latest research, emerging technologies, and innovative solutions that are driving efficiency, sustainability, and scalability in the industry. Experts from academia, industry, and R&D will present new crop developments, AI applications, and photonics innovations that are redefining modern food production.
Key Topics
- New Crops in VF
- AI
- Photonics
Presentations
- AI for Vertical Farming, Presentation Prof: Joel Cuello Arizona University
- Challenges and Solutions for scaling and energy efficiency in CEA/VF, Presentation
© FUJIAN SANANBIO TECHNOLOGY
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