An international exploration full of business potential
From 7 to 11 July 2025, Orchard of the Future is organising an inspiring trip to the United States. This journey is aimed at tech companies active in or looking to grow within the fruit sector. With 15 to 20 participants, company visits, networking events and the opportunity to showcase your technology through conversations and promotional materials, this trip offers concrete entry points for collaboration and business development.
Discover the American fruit sector up close
The journey starts in Portland, Oregon, and continues through the fruit-producing region around Hood River before reaching Yakima Valley in Washington State. Along the way, we will visit leading growers, collectives and technology partners. These meetings offer room to present your solution, explore its potential relevance and discuss follow-up opportunities. The return flight will depart from Seattle. Travel days are 6, 12 and 13 July.
The programme is taking shape
Several key elements of the Oregon programme have now been confirmed. These visits offer a strong mix of technological innovation, practical insights and engagement with the local sector.
Monday 7 July
- Visit to a startup developing modular, fully automated greenhouses
- Visit to a major manufacturer of high-tech agricultural equipment
- Meeting with researchers at Oregon State University’s North Willamette Research and Extension Center, specialising in berries and hazelnuts
Tuesday 8 July
• Visit to the Mid-Columbia Agricultural Research and Extension Center of Oregon State University, focusing on innovation in tree fruit production
• Informal networking event with local fruit growers
- Visit to the Mid-Columbia Agricultural Research and Extension Center of Oregon State University, focusing on innovation in tree fruit production
- Informal networking event with local fruit growers
As additional visits and meetings are confirmed, the programme will be expanded accordingly.
Limited spots available
A maximum of 20 spots are available for this trip. We warmly invite tech companies active in fruit cultivation to apply. In case of oversubscription, priority will be given to those previously involved in OOTF, NXTGEN Hightech or The Next Fruit 4.0. New to the network but see a strong fit with your technology or ambitions? Be sure to let us know.
For tech companies ready to grow in an international market
For technology companies, this trip is more than just an introduction. It is a strategic moment to present your solution in a market that is actively seeking innovation. Over the past years, strong relationships have been built and multiple pilot projects have been launched between Dutch tech companies and US growers. This trip builds on that foundation, aiming not just to showcase technology, but to move it towards real market adoption. Orchard of the Future connects you with relevant players, supports validation and creates space to scale your technology. Together, we accelerate the shift from development to application and strengthen the position of Dutch high-tech in international fruit cultivation.
Would you like to grow your international network, explore new opportunities or ask a question? Reach out to Peter Schellekens.
