Sepehr Achard

iGrow News Articles by: Sepehr Achard

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As a dedicated journalist and entrepreneur, I helm iGrow News, a pioneering media platform focused on the evolving landscape of Agriculture Technology. With a deep-seated passion for uncovering the latest developments and trends within the agtech sector, my mission is to deliver insightful, unbiased news and analysis. Through iGrow News, I aim to empower industry professionals, enthusiasts, and the broader public with knowledge and understanding of technological advancements that shape modern agriculture. You can follow me on LinkedIn & Twitter.
The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council & VentureFuel introduced the Blueberry Boost Accelerator to support startups utilizing blueberries.

U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council Launches Blueberry Boost Accelerator to Support Emerging Startups

The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council & VentureFuel introduced the Blueberry Boost Accelerator to support startups utilizing blueberries.

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The inaugural Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition concluded with a firm restatement of the important role of innovation and entrepreneurship in strengthening the agricultural sector and empowering farmers to contribute to the UAE's sustainable food security. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the event took place at the ADNEC Centre Al Ain from 28 to 31 May 2025. The event witnessed wide participation from Emirati farmers, federal and government entities in agriculture, as well as youth, academics, innovators, entrepreneurs and the community. The final day of the event featured specialised panel discussions addressing the importance of strong national and international partnerships in supporting Emirati farmers, enhancing the sustainable agriculture ecosystem in the UAE, and empowering farmers through agricultural guidance programmes. During the opening ceremony, Najla Ahmed Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director at Emirates Growth Fund Vice Chairperson at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), emphasised that the inaugural edition of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition is a national event that recognises agriculture as a pathway to growth, a means of empowerment, and a key driver of the economy. She noted that the event is inspired by the vision of the nation's wise leadership, which regards the agricultural sector as a fundamental pillar of national security and a sustainable economy. It further underscores the importance of elevating agriculture as a national priority and a genuine economic opportunity. She said: "At the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre, we are witnessing a new generation of Emiratis who do not wait for opportunities but create them. They are investing in smart agricultural technologies that will shape the future of the sector. In this spirit, the Emirates Growth Fund was established, with support from the Emirates Development Bank (EDB), to empower innovative national companies in agriculture and food security. The Fund provides flexible investments while allowing the entrepreneurs to manage their projects independently, as our role is to empower, not to control." Al Midfa emphasised that achieving lasting success relies on true collaboration among farmers, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. This collective effort is essential for turning investments in agriculture into investments for the nation and future generations, thereby strengthening food security and advancing economic and environmental sustainability A session titled Entrepreneurship in the Agricultural Sector - Challenges and Opportunities explored key areas for boosting entrepreneurship in agriculture. During the panel discussions, participants focused on topics such as financing agricultural projects and supporting local products to improve their standing in both domestic and international markets. The panels also addressed challenges and opportunities, the importance of investing in innovative and entrepreneurial ideas, and how to turn those ideas into bankable projects. The session was moderated by Mr. Manea Ahmed Alkaabi, CEO of Emirates Beekeepers Company and Chairman of the Hatta Traders Council. The session explored mechanisms to support sustainable projects and promote investment in the agricultural sector. The speakers included Sultan Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the National Agriculture Centre; Shaker Fareed Zainal, Chief Business Officer of the Emirates Development Bank (EDB); Sara Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa); and Dr. Fuzan Alkhalidi, Director of Programmes and Initiatives Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). They highlighted the most important challenges in financing agricultural projects. A special session was held with the winners of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award in the 'Innovation' category, celebrating their achievements, creativity, and innovations. It showcased their journey in the sector, their experiences developing their projects, the challenges they faced, and the factors that contributed to their success. The session also highlighted the lessons learned and best practices that can inspire farmers and entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector to promote innovation and sustainability. This session was presented by Eng. Noura Saeed Al Nuaimi, Lead Researcher at the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, and featured insights from the winners: Eng. Hamad Musabah Al Tunaiji, Mr. Rashid Salim Al Ketbi, Mohammed Albuainain Al Mazrouei, and Hassan Juma Al Zaabi.

Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition Highlights Role of Innovation in UAE’s Food Security Strategy

The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition took place from May 28–31, 2025, at the ADNEC Centre Al Ain.

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Walmart Canada is now selling hyperlocal produce grown by Lufa Farms atop its Marché Central Supercentre in Montreal.

Lufa Farms & Walmart Canada Partner to Offer Rooftop-Grown Produce in Montreal

Walmart Canada is now selling hyperlocal produce grown by Lufa Farms atop its Marché Central Supercentre in Montreal.

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Mondelēz International

Mondelēz International Joins 100+ Accelerator to Advance Sustainable Innovation

Key Takeaways Mondelēz International becomes the sixth corporate partner in the 100+ Accelerator program, joining companies like AB InBev and Unilever. The initiative supports global startups focused on sustainability in […]

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Explore AgTech growth with John Deere's acquisition of Sentera and investments boosting digital agriculture technologies.

AgTech Growth: Weekly Roundup of Developments Across Precision Ag, CEA, and Plant Science

Explore AgTech growth with John Deere's acquisition of Sentera and investments boosting digital agriculture technologies.

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Karla Garcia combines roles as CEO of Microgreens FLN and technical service specialist at Hort Americas Mexico.

Karla Garcia: Empowering Growers Through Education and Practical Support in Vertical Farming

Karla Garcia combines roles as CEO of Microgreens FLN and technical service specialist at Hort Americas Mexico.

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Felipe Hernandez outlines the origins of Hexagro, born from his design thesis addressing pesticide overuse in Costa Rica.

Felipe Hernandez: Expanding Urban Farming Access Through Modular Technology at Hexagro

Felipe Hernandez outlines the origins of Hexagro, born from his design thesis addressing pesticide overuse in Costa Rica.

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Michael Oster, CEO of Saffron Tech, discussed his entry into agriculture after more than two decades in energy and real estate.

Michael Oster: Leading Saffron Tech’s Transition into Commercial Vertical Farming

Michael Oster, CEO of Saffron Tech, discussed his entry into agriculture after more than two decades in energy and real estate.

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Horizon Farm Credit awards $136K in grants to 16 groups, funding ag innovation, education, diversity, and community growth.

Farm Credit Canada Commits $2Bn to AgTech Investment Through FCC Capital

H.R. 1618 mandates a review of current rules related to fixed, mobile & satellite communications & their implications for precision ag.

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Plenty Unlimited Inc. has successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy following court approval of its reorganization plan. vertical farming

Plenty Emerges from Chapter 11 with Renewed Focus on Vertical Strawberry Farming

Plenty Unlimited Inc. has successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy following court approval of its reorganization plan.

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