With the growing impact of climate change on food supply, it is important that we accelerate innovation in agriculture and horticulture. The Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV) is committed to sustainable food systems, in the Netherlands, Europe, and worldwide. Therefore, we are launching this Open Call to provide innovative Dutch entrepreneurs a springboard to international markets. Specifically, we are looking for innovative agricultural technologies (AgTech) that contribute to sustainable, climate-smart, and nature-inclusive food systems.
Do you, your team, or organization have an AgTech solution that contributes to the future of sustainable food systems? And are you ready to explore your opportunities in Belgium, Germany, France or Scandinavia (further), together with us? Then we look forward to receiving your submission!
Our challenge
Climate change is becoming increasingly visible and has a growing impact on global food supply. Drought and salinization, followed by extreme rainfall and flooding, degrade soil and biodiversity. Given the increasing pressure of climate change and the growing world population, innovative agricultural technology plays an increasingly important role in safeguarding future food supply.
The Netherlands is globally recognized for its strong position in the AgTech sector. With leading agricultural knowledge institutions and a strong focus on innovation, we have developed a thriving AgTech ecosystem. Consequently, startups and established companies in neighboring countries are interested in Dutch AgTech innovations.
This Open Call serves as a launching platform for innovative entrepreneurs who want to contribute to future-proof agriculture in an international, open, and innovative way. Our focus is on exploring, stimulating, and validating international applications of Dutch innovations in agricultural technology to determine their potential in the global market. Through this Open Call, we offer innovative entrepreneurs exciting opportunities in Belgium, Germany, France or Scandinavia.
About us
The Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV) works on sustainable food systems, valuable nature, and a vital countryside. For current and future generations, in the Netherlands, Europe, and worldwide.
The LNV Attaché Network (LAN) is committed to the internationalization of the Dutch agro and nature domain. As an expert partner, LAN contributes to the earning capacity of the Netherlands, a sustainable global food supply, and the strengthening of biodiversity in line with the LNV vision and the Sustainable Development Goals. LAN supports the Dutch government, businesses, knowledge and education institutions, and non-profit organizations in the domain of agriculture, nature, and food in their international ambitions.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for innovations in agricultural technology (AgTech) that contribute to sustainable, climate-smart, and nature-inclusive food systems.
Themes we have in mind include: transparent and climate-smart food chains, reduction of food waste, emission reduction in the chain, animal welfare, circularity and valorization of residual streams, and regional food chains. Examples of agricultural technology include: Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, sensors, drones, and biotechnology. But feel free to surprise us with sustainable AgTech solutions we haven't thought of ourselves.
What we are not looking for?
- We are not looking for advisory services or research.
- The solution should focus on improving processes in the chain, not on end products for consumers.
What we offer
- Chance to win a €25,000 innovation budget: this can be used for various purposes, such as developing a prototype or pilot, participating in and gaining exposure at fairs and events in the target country.
- 3 to 10 entrants will be invited to an exclusive online Matchmaking event. This is your chance to explore collaboration opportunities and establish valuable contacts with interested companies from Belgium, Germany, France, or Scandinavia.
- Access to the network, advice, and support from the Ministry of LNV and the Attaché network of LNV in Belgium, Germany, France or Scandinavia.
- Opportunity for sustainable collaboration and scaling opportunities.
Participation requirements
- Participants must be a Dutch company registered with the Chamber of Commerce (KVK).
- The solution complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
- Ability to demonstrate a working prototype/product/service.
Your submission
The submission must include the following components:
- Description of the Solution: We would like to have a good understanding of your solution. How does it contribute to realizing climate-smart and nature-inclusive food systems? Be as specific as possible.
- Scaling Opportunities: We want to know if your company is already active internationally. What do you need to scale up to one of the target countries? Ideally, address how the Attaché network of LNV in Belgium, Germany, France or Scandinavia could support you.
- Team Description: Provide a brief description of the company and team
The submission must meet the following requirements:
- In Dutch or English
- Maximum 4 pages / 12 slides
- In the form of a presentation, slide deck, or text file
- Uploaded as a PDF file (landscape or portrait A4 format, maximum 30MB)
Timeline
- February 13: Challenge launch
- April 11 at 17:00 (CET): deadline for submitting applications
- No later than May 14: announcement of selection
- June 6: submission of financial proposal (only for selected entrants)
- June 18: online matchmaking event with selection and interested companies from the target countries
- No later than June 27: announcement of winner