Agrifood Next: start up, Artificial intelligence and new investment models in the Bioeconomy landscape

The agri-food system is currently at the center of a profound transformation, driven by the convergence of technological innovation, ecological transition, and new business models. In this context, key drivers such as artificial intelligence, innovative startups, and new investment models are emerging as crucial factors to accelerate the concrete adoption of the bioeconomy and make agri-food value chains more sustainable, resilient, and competitive.

The conference “Agrifood Next: Startups, Artificial Intelligence and New Investment Models for the Bioeconomy” aims to explore the opportunities offered by the innovation ecosystem applied to the agri-food sector, analysing the growing role of advanced digital technologies—particularly artificial intelligence—in natural resource management, production process optimisation, and the enhancement of agricultural and industrial value chains. 
A specific focus will be placed on the contribution of agrifood startups, which act as experimental laboratories capable of introducing disruptive solutions in strategic areas such as precision agriculture, supply chain traceability, circular economy, and waste reduction. At the same time, the conference will address new financial instruments and investment models—from venture capital to impact funds, as well as public-private partnerships—needed to increase the added value of the entire agri-food sector and promote effective technology transfer to the production system.
Through dialogue among agricultural enterprises, the food industry, research centres, investors, and institutions, the event aims to outline strategies and development pathways for an innovation ecosystem capable of strengthening the Italian and European bioeconomy, while promoting environmental sustainability, economic competitiveness, and food security.

Program

10.00 Welcome remarks and moderation
Daniele Rossi, Vice President, National Agrifood Cluster

10.10 Session I – Keynote presentations
Maurizio Notarfonso, Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Division, ENEA
Representative of the European Commission / Joint Research Centre
Luigi Galimberti, To Seed

11.10 Session II – Companies and startups

Introduction

Case studies

12.10 Session III – Roundtable discussion

Introduction and moderation:
Fabio Iraldo, Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa

Speakers:
Massimiliano Giansanti, President, Confagricoltura (General Confederation of Italian Agriculture)
Paolo Mascarino, President, Federalimentare / National Agrifood Cluster
Francesca Mariotti, President, ENEA (TBC)