More efficient cultivation, no more unpleasant physical work, less use of crop protection agents, less use of water and fossil fuels; there is no shortage of things to achieve in horticulture, if you’re a winner with a mind full of ideas.

If this sounds like you, then you may want to consider the Top Sector T&U Innovation Prize. They are looking for “entrepreneurs with a promising idea about how unmanned growing concept in horticulture can be made possible”.

You have until Tuesday 1 September 2020 to register.

The winning team receives a voucher worth 25,000 euros for further development with TU Delft AgTech Institute, professional advice and media exposure via KAS Magazine, the horticulture trade magazine.

There is also a public award that will give you 1,500 euros and some other perks. All selected participants will be given the opportunity to attend a market readiness training course.

Automation and robotics are becoming more important within horticulture, as the sector continues to push for more circularity and sustainability. Competitive entries for this innovation prize are likely to integrate a variety of technologies, such as sensor physics, computer vision, communication technology, geothermal engineering, material science, artificial intelligence, genetics, and crop modelling.

The 2019 edition was won by PHYSEE Technologies.