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GRO Food

Experimental zone for sustainable food systems

The first pilot plants are already underway, bolstered by the knowledge and expertise of all the knowledge institutions and campuses in the region. Groningen is the experimental zone for sustainable food systems.

The future of food

Groningen has traditionally been an agricultural province of good repute. In the 21st century, the agricultural sector faces a new chapter. The climate crisis, problems with soil quality and the deterioration of biodiversity call for sustainable solutions. Food innovation is being experimented on all fronts; from nature inclusive farming to disease control. New crops such as hemp are bringing new opportunities. Innovative use of plant proteins – from potatoes, for example – are providing ever better substitutes for animal products. And digital innovations in agro-tech provide substantial improvements in cultivation. From sustainable thinking to sustainable doing. 

Leading projects and companies

  • Royal Avebe

    Royal Avebe supplies ingredients and the potato is their raw material.
  • Agrifly

    Arable farmers can measure differences in growth stages between plants thanks to Agrifly's 5G drone.
  • Smart Potato

    A device that takes measurements in the ground and transmits them to the farmer.
  • Fascinating

    An open innovation program that connects (agricultural) companies, knowledge institutions and society.

Boost your future

Our tomorrow’s world starts today. In Groningen. We’re looking for talents, entrepreneurs, partners and investors who share the Groningen spirit. Pioneering, ground-breaking go-getters who want to collaborate with the many organizations in the Groningen ecosystem. To work on growth. And build a green, healthy and digital future – with a human touch.

More information

Ontdek meer

  • GRO The future

    Groningen is the place to grow and work on your future. Here, we work closely together on the transition themes of digital, food, health and energy.
  • GRO Digital

    Thanks to its rich digital sector, Groningen is the place for growth and transformation. Here, start-ups, scale-ups and established big players work together with knowledge institutions on global issues.
  • GRO Health

    The healthiest city in the Netherlands, the life science sector is growing faster than the national average. This is due to the combined strengths of companies, leading institutions and schools.
  • GRO Energy

    Groningen is a frontrunner in the development of renewable energy. And when it comes to green hydrogen, Groningen even leads in Europe.

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