From innovation to impact
Innovations only create value when they are widely adopted. The handsfree agrifood ecosystem bridges the gap between development and implementation by bringing stakeholders together and promoting knowledge sharing. By investing in interoperability, data infrastructure, human capital, and regulatory frameworks, we accelerate adoption and make technologies accessible across the entire sector. In doing so, we are jointly building a future-proof, efficient, and sustainable agrifood sector—while positioning the Netherlands as a global leader in hands-free agrifood.
Technology
Technologies ready for handsfree agrifood
Innovations must not only be developed, but also made widely deployable. The ecosystem accelerates this transition by making technologies scalable and turning small-scale pilots into large-scale applications. By bringing together companies and researchers, we foster collaboration and accelerate the further development of technology. In doing so, we create lasting impact and help make the agrifood sector more efficient, sustainable, and future-proof.
Interoperability
Seamless collaboration between systems
Interoperable systems enable smooth exchange of data and technology throughout the chain. Currently, many systems still operate in isolation, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. By establishing standards and improving system alignment, we make collaboration easier and strengthen data-driven decision-making. This boosts efficiency across the entire sector and accelerates the practical application of innovations.
Data infrastructure
Transparency and shared standards
A uniform approach to data and technology is essential for collaboration and the rapid adoption of innovations. By developing shared standards and clear protocols, we create an efficient, reliable, and well-aligned agrifood chain. This prevents fragmentation and ensures that companies and technologies can integrate seamlessly. In doing so, we unlock the full potential of innovation and make the sector more flexible and future-oriented.
Human ware or social innovation
Skills for the future
Successful innovation requires people with the right knowledge and skills. Digitalisation and automation are transforming the sector, increasing the demand for technically skilled professionals. By investing in education, reskilling, and partnerships between academia and industry, we ensure that professionals are well prepared for the technologies of tomorrow. This way, innovation becomes more than just a technical challenge—it becomes something that truly works in practice.
Regulation
Clarity and standardisation
Standardised certifications and clear legislation accelerate the adoption of new technologies. Promising innovations are often delayed by lengthy approval processes and complex regulations. By working together on clear policies and consistent certification, we make it easier for companies to apply new technologies quickly and on a broad scale. This lowers barriers to innovation and supports the development of a future-proof agrifood sector.
(Cyber)security
Security as a priority
A reliable and secure chain is crucial for the future of the agrifood sector. By prioritising (cyber)security and uniform data protocols from the design phase onward, we mitigate risks and ensure safe, efficient applications. This applies not only to data and software but also to physical systems and automation. By placing security at the core, we enable innovations to be adopted with confidence and make a meaningful impact on a global scale.
Innovation packages as the driving force behind collective progress
To realise the shared ambition of hands-free agrifood, we are working on three innovation packages: Open Field Cultivation, Greenhouse Horticulture, and Food Processing. Each package contributes to a more efficient, sustainable, and flexible agrifood sector by developing and accelerating the application of new technologies. By combining knowledge, data, and collaboration, innovations are more closely aligned with real-world needs and become widely deployable—from autonomous farming machines and digital crop optimisation to advanced food processing solutions.
Open Field Cultivation
Greenhouse Horticulture
Food Processing
Domain leader
Suzanne Verboon
Suzanne has extensive experience with innovative projects and programmes, both nationally and internationally. As Programme Manager for Agriculture, Water, and Food at FME, she channels her passion for these sectors into accelerating solutions.