Key Takeaways
- Alberto Aguilar outlines the product development process behind Plantaform’s fogponic vertical farming system
- Emphasizes challenges in design iteration, including over 100 versions tested to determine optimal growing conditions
- Notes growing interest in vertical farming from the Middle East, particularly in countries like UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia
- Describes shift from outbound marketing to inbound demand from restaurants and other buyers
- Highlights the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being as a startup founder
Alberto Aguilar Shares Insights on Vertical Farming Development
In a recent appearance on the Vertical Farming Podcast, Alberto Aguilar, CEO of Plantaform, offered an overview of the company’s approach to innovation, the evolving market for controlled environment agriculture, and the realities of building an agtech startup. A key focus of the conversation was Plantaform’s development of a fogponic system, which uses mist to deliver nutrients to plant roots.
Check their intervention in Dragon’s Den here.
Aguilar explained that bringing the product to market involved more than 100 design iterations, driven by the need to meet the specific growing requirements of different cultivars. The system, currently being implemented in a vertical farm project in Quebec, is designed to produce vegetables efficiently while minimizing inputs like water and space.
International Market Interest and Commercial Response
According to Alberto Aguilar, the Middle East has emerged as a region of strong interest for vertical farming technologies. He referenced engagement from countries such as the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, where local conditions and government initiatives are prompting investment in food production technologies suited to arid environments.
The company has also seen an increase in unsolicited inquiries from potential customers, particularly from the hospitality sector. Aguilar described how restaurant owners have reached out after seeing Plantaform’s systems in media coverage or in use at peer locations, expressing interest in sourcing fresh herbs and greens through on-site vertical systems.
Professional Growth and Personal Balance
Beyond technical and commercial aspects, Alberto Aguilar discussed the demands of leading a startup in an emerging sector. He spoke about the importance of maintaining a work-life balance and how focusing on personal well-being can help reduce the risk of burnout. These reflections were framed as relevant not only to his own experience but also to others navigating the startup environment in agtech.
Alberto Aguilar Looking Ahead
Aguilar’s remarks provided a detailed view into the strategic considerations behind product development, international market expansion, and leadership in the vertical farming industry. As controlled environment agriculture continues to grow, his experience highlights both the complexity of scaling new technologies and the evolving expectations of customers and partners in the space.
