Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology Evolves into Agrifood Innovation Institute

Key Takeaways:

1. Institutional Evolution: The Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology (CEAT) transitions to the Agrifood Innovation Institute (AFII) to reflect its broadened mission.
2. Funding and Recognition: ANU’s further $12 million commitment underscores CEAT’s achievements and future potential.
3. Strategic Focus: AFII will address key strategic issues within the agri-food sector over the next five years.
4. Thematic Interests: AFII will target six specific areas, from Climate Ready Crops to Emissions and Climate Adaptation, to drive innovation and resilience.
5. Leadership and Governance: Associate Professor Alison Bentley is appointed the new Deputy Director, and a fresh Board will guide the Institute.

Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology Changes Its Name

The Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology (CEAT) has announced a significant evolution in its mission and operational scope. Starting from the new year, CEAT will be known as the Agrifood Innovation Institute (AFII), a change that signifies its expanded role as an Australian National University (ANU) Innovation Institute.

Background and Achievements:

Established in July 2018 through a collaboration between the ANU and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), CEAT has been at the forefront of agri-technological advancements. The institute garnered support and funding from the Priority Investment Program of the ACT Government, reflecting its vital role in driving innovation. In 2020, CEAT was designated as an ANU Innovation Institute. This recognition came with an additional commitment of $12 million from the ANU earlier this year to support its operations for another five years.

Transition to AFII:

The transition to the Agrifood Innovation Institute is not merely a name change but a strategic pivot. Following months of strategic planning, this rebranding mirrors the broadening of the institute’s mission. Moving beyond the confines of agri-technology, AFII aims to address a broader spectrum of challenges in the agrifood domain. This includes leveraging interdisciplinary capabilities across STEM (science, technology, and engineering) and HASS (humanities, arts, and social sciences) fields.

Strategic Focus and Thematic Interests:

Over the next half-decade, the Institute will concentrate on critical strategic issues plaguing the agrifood sector, ranging from structural dilemmas to stakeholders’ needs. AFII has outlined six thematic interests that will guide its efforts:

1. Climate Ready Crops: Enhancing productivity and resilience against climate adversities.
2. Biosecurity and One Health: Reducing the impact of diseases and pests.
3. Bioeconomy: Meeting changing consumer demands for sustainable food production.
4. Trade and Supply Chains: Creating equitable and efficient food supply systems.
5. Agrifood Energy Transitions: Utilizing renewable energy technologies to boost profitability and sustainability.
6. Emissions and Climate Adaptation: Focusing on emission reduction and enhancing climate resilience.

New Leadership and Governance:

AFII has appointed Associate Professor Alison Bentley as the new Deputy Director in alignment with its renewed focus. Moreover, a new Board has been instituted to replace the former Governance Committee, tasked with steering the Institute’s strategy and performance over the coming years.