HortiScience Innovation Center (HIC) supports startups in greenhouse horticulture through a combination of venture building, testing facilities, expert guidance, and ecosystem access.
Key services for horti startups include:
Venture studio support
HIC helps founders turn horticulture ideas into scalable startups. Support includes venture creation, business development, strategic guidance, and access to financing and co-building partners.
Greenhouse testing facilities
Startups can validate technologies in real greenhouse environments. HIC provides access to pilot locations, feasibility testing, cultivation expertise, and practical validation support.
Access to scientific and technical expertise
Through partners such as Wageningen University & Research, Delphy Improvement Center, YES!Delft, and StartLife, startups gain access to horticultural research, crop science, automation expertise, and commercialization support.
Industry network and ecosystem connections
HIC connects startups with growers, corporates, researchers, investors, and international partners in the greenhouse horticulture sector.
Funding and IP support
The venture studio collaborates with partners for grant and funding acquisition and EP&C for intellectual property strategy and patent support.
Shared infrastructure and collaboration model
Startups benefit from shared facilities, operational support, and collaborative knowledge exchange while retaining ownership of their ventures.
Focus on key horticulture innovation themes
HIC specifically supports startups working on:
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Energy transition
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Resilient cultivation systems
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Circular horticulture
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Autonomous growing
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Automation & robotics
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Future-proof labor solutions
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Talent and visibility opportunities
HIC organizes tours, events, startup exposure activities, and collaboration opportunities with students, researchers, and industry stakeholders.
By signing up we help connect you to the right people in the Hortiscience Innovation Center.
