Start-up
- ECA AGRI
CMR Group, a reference in the import and export of fruits and vegetables, joins the Company for Equality – MujerAGRO seal, a certificate that makes visible its good practices in terms of equality. By obtaining this seal, CMR GROUP certifies its good practices in equality under the Company for Equality – MujerAGRO seal, (#SelloporlaIgualdadMA), awarded … Read more
...
Lotta Folkesson, President of the Women’s Committee of COPA- COGECA rural women, invites us to get an inside look at how they work to empower more women in the rural sector in order to close the gender gap. By: Bárbara Aguayo Martínez, agri-food journalist/ @BarbaraAguayoM3 Next year, 2023, COPA-COGECA will present a new slogan “Women … Read more
...
A new category is added: the WOMAN AGRO Food Tech Award, which was created with the aim of rewarding technology-based business projects or R & D & I projects that are being carried out in the agri-food environment, founded, co-founded , directed or led by a woman or women. The deadline for submitting applications will … Read more
...
The agri-food sector has joined in the V National Business Agro Women Agroprofessional Forum (#MujerAGRO) to make visible and bet on women with the aim of raising awareness in administrations and decision-making bodies, the importance of incorporating more women in governance positions and representation. Under the slogan “The future has the name of rural women”, … Read more
...
The city of Valencia will host on June 29, and for the second consecutive year, the celebration of the National Business Agro Women Agroprofessional Forum (#MujerAGRO), organized by Siete Agromarketing and eComercio Agrario, and which in this year 2021 celebrates its V edition, endorsing the success of the Agro Women Project that promotes and works … Read more
...
Organized by Fruit Attraction and Siete Agromarketing, two virtual sessions will be held on October 14 and 15, in the context of Fruit Attraction LiveConnect, with the aim of delving into aspects that lead to greater female leadership and balance in the chain of agri-food value, such as communication and visibility, personal brand and digital … Read more
...
The MujerAGRO Awards kick off the institutional agenda in the International Year of Women Farmers
Siete Agromarketing, promoter of the MujerAGRO Project, which celebrates its 10th Anniversary this year, will hold the awards ceremony for the 8th MujerAGRO Awards on February 20 at 11:00 a.m. at the Spanish Institute of Engineering, headquarters of the National Association of Agronomists (ANIA).
Efficiency of irrigation and fertilization and their impact on the water footprint of strawberries in Huelva
The management of water and nitrogen in strawberries in Huelva reveals how fertigation efficiency can transform the environmental impact of the crop.
Between Efficiency and Dependence: The Power of Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the agricultural sector, offering tools that improve efficiency, optimize resources and support decision‑making. By Julia Álvarez García, journalist However, its growing presence in the countryside also raises concerns about technological dependence, data management and the need for proper training among farmers. The article highlights that AI is already being used in crop monitoring, predictive models, irrigation management, pest detection and yield forecasting. These technologies allow producers to anticipate problems, reduce costs and make more precise decisions, especially in a context marked by climate uncertainty and rising production expenses. Experts point out that AI can help farmers adapt to extreme weather events, optimize water use and improve sustainability. Tools such as satellite imagery, sensors, machine learning algorithms and autonomous machinery are becoming increasingly common in modern agriculture. However, the sector also warns of the risks associated with relying too heavily on digital tools, particularly when farmers do not fully understand how these systems work or when they depend on external companies for data processing. There is also concern about the digital divide, as not all producers have access to the same level of technology or connectivity. The article stresses the importance of training and support so that farmers can integrate AI effectively and safely into their operations. It also calls for clear regulations on data ownership and transparency in algorithmic decision‑making. In short, AI represents a powerful opportunity for the agricultural sector, but its adoption must be accompanied by education, safeguards and a balanced approach that ensures farmers remain in control of their production
NOFLY® Changes the Rules of Quality Control in Biological Insecticides
Futureco Bioscience has achieved a new milestone in the quality control of biological crop protection products with the development and ISO 17025-accredited validation of a new quantification method for viable spores in the company’s flagship bioinsecticide NOFLY®. The method is the first certified under ISO 17025 standards using automated particle counting technology for viable spore quantification. This achievement follows the recent accreditation expansion announced in July 2025, where the Spanish National Accreditation Body (ENAC) recognized Futureco Bioscience’s Analytical Services Department (ASD) for two advanced analytical procedures. Today’s announcement puts a spotlight on the microbiological innovation behind that expansion, with NOFLY® leading the way. “This is not just an internal validation. It’s a certified, ISO-accredited protocol for the entire biological control input industry,” said Belén López García, Director of Analytical Services. “We’re setting a new benchmark in how biopesticides like NOFLY® are measured, validated, and trusted by regulators, distributors, and farmers.” From Petri Dishes to Fluorescent Microscopy: Revolutionizing Viable Spore Quantification NOFLY® is widely recognized for its efficacy against whiteflies, thrips, aphids, and other major insect pests. Until now, its microbiological quality control required manual counting of colony-forming units (CFUs) on agar plates: a process that took 2–3 days and involved significant variability and labor. The new ISO-certified method uses the LUNA™ FX-7 automated particle counter and a fluorescent viability staining to detect and quantify live spores in a matter of minutes, providing consistent, reproducible results across technical-grade and formulated products. Developed by an expert team of researchers and technicians in the Molecular Biology and Microbiology Units of Futureco Bioscience’s R&D Department, the method reflects both scientific rigor and practical expertise. “It brings speed, precision, and traceability to a process that was traditionally slow and prone to underestimation,” explained Juan Bautista González López, lead scientist behind the development. “By combining fluorescence imaging with rigorous validation using certified reference materials, we’ve established a gold-standard procedure.” Accuracy, Repeatability, and Reliability Backed by Data The method was validated over two years using commercial batches of NOFLY® and its technical-grade active ingredient. It was benchmarked against certified reference materials, showing high accuracy (recovery rate of 103%), low standard deviation, and excellent reproducibility, even across different operators and days. These metrics surpass conventional CFU-based counting, which is known to underestimate real spore counts due to colony merging and sample heterogeneity. The method also confirms long-term batch stability and verifies that the presence of co-formulants in the final product does not interfere with viable spore detection. This ensures consistent performance from production to application. A Quality Milestone for NOFLY® and Biologicals Industry With this certification, NOFLY® becomes the first fungal biopesticide with a viable spore quantification method based on automated particle counting and validated under ISO 17025. “This is a strategic move for Futureco Bioscience and for all our partners in the field,” stated Rafael Juncosa, CEO and President. “NOFLY® has always been a trusted biological solution for sustainable pest control. Now, it also leads the industry in analytical traceability and regulatory compliance.” The development also paves the way for greater acceptance of biocontrol solutions in high-value export markets, where quality control and documentation are under increased
Digital boost for the fruit trade at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2025
20 international startups are exhibiting at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2025. Their business ideas focus on digitalisation of the industry and include AI and modern sensor technology. What must my greenhouse look like to be profitable? Greenhouse Formula has the answer. The British startup’s online tool makes it quick and easy to develop a 2D or 3D model. It works for different plants and climate zones and provides investors and growers with a comparative aid. Greenhouse Formula’s founders are convinced that, in the face of climate change, protected cultivation will become increasingly important. Greenhouse Formula is one of 20 startups exhibiting at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2025. In the Startup World in Hall 3.1, Messe Berlin is giving founders from ten countries the opportunity to make contact with large companies, potential partners and visitors from all over the world and build valuable business relationships. Many innovations aim to make processes more efficient and scalable through digital solutions. AgStacked from the Netherlands, for example, uses its tool to collect data along the supply chain. Machine learning takes weather, temperature and cold chain data into account. Quality risks are minimised, due to the software proactively requiring decision-making before problems arise. This reduces waste and avoids costly rejects. Orbem’s technology has the same goal. Using MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and deep learning algorithms, it assesses the quality of fruit, eggs or nuts and helps to categorise and sort products. Agurotech shows how smart sensor technology can support growers. Data from soil sensors, weather stations and plant analyses gives them valuable real-time information on soil and plant health. Harvest Ai from Germany trains its SaaS tool with data obtained from the company’s own camera systems, among other sources, and uses it to improve efficiency in greenhouses. Radiare AI’s technology uses the power of light alone to keep greenhouse plants healthy. The DemeGrow system’s LEDs with their precise wavelengths have been proven to enhance the vitality of plants. Unwanted microorganisms are neutralised. NanoSci , a company established by researchers at the University of Gdansk, also works with light. It provides a filter-free air purification solution using UV light from LED diodes that remove ethylene gas and grey mould, which ensures fruit stays fresh longer. PhenoRoot focuses on the roots as the origin of many plant diseases. The startup from Israel has developed a platform for phenotyping and analysing the roots of plants cultivated in soil. The data collected can be used to gain valuable information for revitalising plants. The multidisciplinary team is already working with various companies and universities that are successfully using this
Open Innovation: Bayer awards incubator opportunity to Genvor
Bayer today announced that the company has selected Genvor Inc., a US-based crop protection business, as the recipient of its first Golden Ticket award. Genvor will receive year-long access to lab space and equipment at Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart, one of the premier U.S. AgriFoodTech innovation ecosystems. This will allow Genvor to connect with Bayer mentors and experts in Bayer’s global innovator network. In addition to their work with biological sprays, Genvor is working with antimicrobial peptide (AMP) technology to make small changes within a genome that could amplify disease resistance and enhance nutrition, from seed to sprout. These seed traits are another way that Genvor is working to provide increased disease resistance and nutrition for crops. “We’re excited that Genvor has been selected as the winner of our Golden Ticket program, and that we will be working with them to scale and grow their innovations,” said Phil Taylor, Director of Open Innovation and Outreach for Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Genvor’s proprietary use of antimicrobial peptide technology takes advantage of pathways built-in to crops and has the potential to deliver broad spectrum biological sprays for effective controls of many plant diseases.” The Golden Ticket program is one of the many ways that Bayer is working with start-ups from around the world to accelerate the delivery of agricultural innovation to farmers. In its first year, it focuses on areas of regenerative agriculture, novel crop protection and efficiency approaches, advanced breeding technologies, and applications of synthetic biology. From a broad field of applicants representing 34 cutting edge technologies and approaches, Genvor was selected to receive the award for their ground-breaking approach to crop protection. Through Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart, Genvor will also gain access to excellent equipment, resources, and mentorship as they bring their technologies to market. “Receiving Bayer’s Golden Ticket is a pivotal moment for us, propelling our pioneering peptide design innovations in crop protection,” said Chad Pawlak, CEO of Genvor. “This support will accelerate our journey towards commercialization, enhancing agricultural sustainability and delivering tangible benefits for farmers and the environment globally.” Bayer’s global network of LifeHubs is located in hotspots of innovation including Monheim, Lyon, Barcelona, California, and Bangalore. In support of the Crop Science mission, they focus on areas of critical innovation in agriculture such as solutions for smallholder farmers, transparency, and sustainability. Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart focuses on innovations within food production systems, including bringing food to market and new technologies. As a part of the larger AgStart facility which hosts the largest wet-lab incubator for startup companies in California’s Central Valley region, the LifeHub also connects the knowledge and experience of Bayer scientists to the leading innovators of the area to assist in developing new technologies. “We look forward to welcoming Genvor into our community and connecting them into our region’s innovation ecosystem,” said Sudhee Lakshmana, Director at AgStart. “Genvor’s selection for Bayer’s Golden Ticket award is a testament to Genvor’s potential to make a significant impact with their
CMR joins the Company for Equality Seal
CMR Group, a reference in the import and export of fruits and vegetables, joins the Company for Equality – MujerAGRO seal, a certificate that makes visible its good practices in terms of equality. By obtaining this seal, CMR GROUP certifies its good practices in equality under the Company for Equality – MujerAGRO seal, (#SelloporlaIgualdadMA), awarded by the organization of the MujerAGRO project, and takes a step forward, making its Equality Plan visible with ambitious objectives in terms of labor equity. A fully active Equality Plan In April 2022, CMR presented its Equality Plan after a complete examination and review of the company’s internal reality, and with clear objectives of working to achieve effective equity in the company. The implementation of the Equality Plan ratified and made visible measures already taken into account in the corporation, such as actions aimed at avoiding any type of employment discrimination between women and men or ensuring equal treatment and opportunities in the workplace. As of today, many of the provisions contemplated in the Equality Plan have already materialized, which has allowed the company to join this Company for Equality – MujerAGRO Seal. The Company for Equality – MujerAGRO seal is part of the actions of the MujerAGRO Project, which seeks to recognize and make visible those companies, institutions, cooperatives, agricultural organizations, that carry out good practices in matters of equality and in favor of real equality within the sector and the entire agri-food
Hungarian drone innovator ABZ poised for entry to UK market
Hungary-based drones for agriculture pioneer ABZ Innovation is readying its introduction into the UK market following success in countries across Europe with a technology that could help alleviate Britain’s farm labour shortage. Already present in five countries, the system offers a revolutionary new use for drones far removed from hobbyists or their use in conflict zones. Developed and tested together with the University of Gyor, the drone solution offers a lower cost, highly-efficient means of spraying fields and orchards that allows farmers and growers to benefit from a reduced workload and an easier means of spraying hard-to-access areas. Cost savings are a key element of the ABZ system, which tests showing that targeted, precise management through drones uses 90% less water than conventional spraying and up to 50% fewer chemicals. In the case of the UK, the ABZ drone system offers a potential system to growers and farmers hit hard by the post-Brexit shortage of agricultural labour. According to calculations from the UK’s National Farmers’ Union, some £60m of fresh produce was left to rot in the fields in 2022 due to a lack of workers. ABZ chief executive Karoly Ludvigh said: “With the problems with the lack of workforce in crops and orchards in the UK, drones can provide a very cost-effective alternative. They also have the benefit of helping growers use significantly less water and chemicals.” With the cost of rising input materials having a major impact on accuracy, Ludvigh said the pinpoint accuracy of spraying with ABZ drones – within 1.5m – can be a valuable asset in keeping input and water costs down. In fact, in the light of the Ukraine war, food shortages and the rapidly changing weather, Ludvigh believes precision farming is no longer a choice, but the only way to uphold agricultural production. He continued: “Proper soil and crop management has become paramount to really provide our plants with the kind of soil they require to withstand weather conditions as well as possible.” At the same time, Karoly says drone technology has been accelerating at an incredible rate with as many changes in the 12 months of 2022 as in the previous six years put together. “The pace of these changes has been amazingly fast and I think it will get even faster,” he
