Food & agritech

A hotbed for food innovation

Known as an established agricultural hub, the Netherlands boasts an active agritech landscape teeming with over 500 food startups, many of which have put down roots in Amsterdam. In recent years, the Amsterdam Area has emerged as a leader in future-proofing global food systems, pioneering solutions in alternative proteins, AI-driven farming and lab-grown meat alternatives. 

Alongside the city’s active startup community, Amsterdam itself is deeply engaged in fostering a sustainable food culture. In 2024, Amsterdam became the first EU capital city to sign the Plant Based Treaty, joining cities like Los Angeles and Edinburgh to address food production in the battle against the climate crisis. The city is encouraging residents to convert to a plant-based diet, with a target of 60% of residents on a plant-based diet by 2030. 

Home to the world’s first plant-based conference and numerous food innovators like De Niewe Keuken, Growy, and Seamore, Amsterdam is the logical go-to for agritech events. 

What makes Amsterdam a great place for food-focused events?

• The City of Amsterdam works closely with Wageningen University, one of the top food institutions in the world and only an hour away from the capital. 
• Amsterdam is home to key research platforms such as Brave New Food, Flevo Campus, and the Amsterdam Green Campus.
• The City's shift to a circular economy is enshrined in policy and explored nationwide during a dedicated annual Week, with one of the main focuses being food and organic waste streams.
• There are many sustainable event venues to choose from, as well as vegan caterers, who fully focus on plant-based dining for large events.

Support from the Amsterdam Convention Bureau

The Amsterdam Convention Bureau (ACB) is dedicated to supporting events that drive positive change, including those focused on shaping the future of food. 

One such event is Plant FWD, which ACB has helped transform into a recurring annual conference. Plant FWD initially debuted as a sold-out one-day event in 2023, attracting over 700 global innovators to shape the protein transition. With ACB's support, Plant FWD expanded, returning in 2024 for an additional day. This growth not only reflects the success of the previous year's event but also underscores Amsterdam's emerging reputation as a leading hub for discussions on future food systems. 

Plant FWD is just one of many agritech conferences held in Amsterdam, including Greentech Amsterdam, the Animal Agtech Innovation Summit and the Regenerative Agriculture Summit Europe. 

Get in touch with ACB for guidance on hosting your next event in Amsterdam.