Award-winning filmmaker and environmental advocate Josh Tickell, co-director of Common Ground, shares the powerful story behind the rise of the global regenerative movement. With over 50 million acres in the U.S. already transitioning to regenerative practices, Tickell explores what’s fueling this shift—and why it matters for the future of food, farming, and the planet. The […]
As we wrap up F&A Next 2025, we reflect on two inspiring days filled with innovation, collaboration, and groundbreaking insights in agrifoodtech. We’ll share key takeaways, successes, and next steps for the future.
The food industry is under pressure to deliver healthier, more sustainable diets — but many innovations still fail to reach consumers or achieve scale. This panel will unpack the systemic challenges behind these failures, including slow innovation cycles, misaligned incentives, and limited regulatory support. We’ll also explore how businesses can better navigate shifting consumer trends, […]
Technology and data are transforming the agri-food value chain, from farms to greenhouses. This session explores their role in improving efficiency, sustainability, and business models through strategic partnerships and innovation. Moderator: Marieke de Ruyter de Wildt | Open Food Chain, World Agriculture Forum Panelists: Cindy van Rijswick | Rabobank, Jan Doldersum | Rijk Zwaan, Jacob […]
The alternative protein industry is at a crossroads. After a period of rapid growth, a slowdown in patent applications signals a shift from hype to reality. Following the Gartner Hype Cycle, the industry now faces the challenge of turning early excitement into sustainable innovation. But this is not the end—it’s a moment to regroup, refine, […]
Innovative agricultural technologies are transforming traditional farming practices, enhancing efficiency, and promoting sustainability. This session explores the rise of new plant breeding companies and cutting-edge technologies in breeding and growing. Which innovations are making their way into commercial applications, and how are farmers and growers adapting? Join us for a discussion on the role of […]
At the closing of the F&A Next summit, two of our ‘Next Heroes in Food & Agtech 2025′ will be granted the Feike Sijbesma Sustainable Innovation Award 2025, which comes with a prize grant of two times €12,500. Feike Sijbesma is a visionary leader, known for transforming Royal DSM into a sustainability-driven company. As Co-Chair of […]
In a time of ecological, food and human crises, it’s not enough to tweak our systems – we must transform from the inside out. This interactive keynote explores how entrepreneurs and leaders can align their work with the wisdoms of the natural world – principals of symbiosis, cycles and long-term horizons. Nikki Trott, author of […]
The rise of obesity medications is a breakthrough in tackling obesity, but the true impact comes from a holistic approach. We can create a future where food and health thrive by integrating healthy food systems, education, and sustainable lifestyles. Collaboration between the medical community, food industry, and policymakers is essential. How can we shift from […]
Transitioning to a sustainable and resilient agricultural food system requires innovative financing models instead of traditional ones. This session explores the role of conventional and nontraditional financiers, including pension funds, investors, and governmental organizations, in supporting this transition. Key topics include balancing high- and low-risk investments, the potential of natural capital as a financial asset, […]
The opening panel on the second day of F&A Next is about embracing startups and building ecosystems. Under the leadership of moderator Laura Thissen, Venture Partner at Grey Silo Ventures , our panel explores the best practices for transforming ideas into impactful solutions and bridging the gap between research and commercialization. A thriving innovation ecosystem […]
Emile van der Staak, owner of Restaurant De Nieuwe Winkel and a pioneer in plant-based gastronomy, takes you on his journey to becoming the world’s best vegetable restaurant and the Netherlands’ best green chef. He shares his vision on how reducing meat and dairy consumption is the most effective way to regenerate ecosystems and prevent […]
To bring innovations that contribute to a more resilient agrifood system into practice, collaboration is key. Industry and WUR have joined forces to combat a major threat to one of the largest food crops: the banana. This resulted in the first resistant banana plant. The plant was developed using advanced breeding and DNA analysis […]
On Wednesday, five pre-seed/seed startups take the stage at F&A Next to showcase their innovations and compete for the Feike Sijbesma Sustainable Innovation Award. On Wednesday, five pre-seed/seed startups can pitch their startup in three minutes. After the presentation, there’s a Q&A session with the expert panel with an extensive track record in the agri-food industry. This panel will […]
On Thursday, five series A/B startups take the stage at F&A Next to showcase their innovations and compete for the Feike Sijbesma Sustainable Innovation Award. On Wednesday, five pre-seed/seed startups can pitch their startup in three minutes. After the presentation, there’s a Q&A session with the expert panel with an extensive track record in the agri-food industry. This panel […]
Richard Nugee, a leading UK Non-Executive Director for Climate Change & Sustainability, sets the stage for F&A Next 2025. This keynote presentation explores the geopolitical impact of climate change on food security and resilient agri-food systems. How do supply chain disruptions, adaptation strategies, and emerging technologies shape the future? What practical steps can businesses take […]
Witness an awe-inspiring opening of the 10th F&A Next Summit, blending art, technology, and science in an unprecedented way. At this year’s opening, the future of food and agriculture innovation will take center stage through a stunning, opening show.
How can we create resilient food systems through sustainable practices like regenerative agriculture, carbon sequestrion and upcycling strategies? Which partnerships in the value chain are needed and who will pay the bill? Who will pay for it, and what are the risks and challenges? This interactive panel discussion brings together farmers, corporate leaders, and experts to explore […]
Following the opening keynote of Richard Nugee, Joost de Laat will engage in a reflective discussion with Lieutenant General Richard Nugee (led by moderator Rens de Jong). Joost de Laat is Managing Director Social Sciences Group and Professor of Economics at the WUR. In this fireside chat, Joost will connect Nugee’s geopolitical perspective to tangible […]
Marjolein Brasz (CEO, Foodvalley) and Alex Datema (Director Food & Agri, Rabobank) kick off the second day of F&A Next with an interactive session. The opening will be moderated by Rens de Jong.
Sebastiaan Berendse (Corporate Director Value Creation, Wageningen University & Research) and Bert-Jan Woertman (Director, StartLife) kick off F&A Next with an interactive session.