From 8 to 10 October 2024, VertiFarm, the next-level farming, controlled environment agriculture and new food systems show, will be focusing once again on sustainable transformation of agriculture and production of alternative foods. Industry giants will once again be meeting innovative start-ups at Messe Dortmund – and will also be given a special opportunity at this year's show as VertiFarm partner 'The Association for Vertical Farming e.V.' (AVF) is inviting young businesses to the Start-Up Challenge as part of its Summit 2024.

Dortmund, 08 August 2024 – 'Grow to the Next Height' is the motto of the competition aimed at young businesses, offering an excellent opportunity for them to present themselves to international industry and science experts, and to engage in high-quality networking. The Association for Vertical Farming is the world's leading non-profit organisation for raising awareness and encouraging networking among all stakeholders in order to promote vertical farming. The AVF's annual summit reflects developments in the industry and research and presents innovations. It is being held in tandem with VertiFarm at Messe Dortmund and brings together experts and industry leaders from all over the world to share knowledge, grow networks and discuss leading-edge solutions in indoor farming.

New start-ups and growing businesses eligible to participate

The Start-Up Challenge is open to newly founded businesses whose innovative ideas still require some expansion, as well as start-ups that are already growing. The AVF will select a total of ten business from among the applicants. These will then be able to present at the 8th AVF Summit with a pitch to an influential audience, and promote their ideas. Five of the chosen participants will be businesses that are still at the very beginning of their trajectories.

The prize for the two winners of the pitches will present a unique opportunity, because they will not just be given a year’s free membership of the AVF, they will also gain access to the association's exclusive resources, networks and events. The winning package also includes two hours of personalised coaching from an established expert in the industry, a video feature on AVF's social media channels and a free start-up stand at VertiFarm 2025 – in other words a unique opportunity to present themselves to an international audience of decision-makers and those engaged in the agricultural, food, pharmaceutical and other industries.

See here for all further information on registering for the Start-Up Challenge.

Full attention with simultaneous participation in the show

Start-ups wishing to secure full attention at VertiFarm 2024 should definitely have a look at the VertiFarm start-up package which gives young businesses on small budgets an opportunity to secure a place in the lively start-up area and present their ideas, projects and innovations. In the past, immensely valuable collaborations with major players in the industry have already been established here. German start-ups also have the opportunity to apply for funding under the Young Innovator Programme.