Oslo-based AgriTech startup Avisomo has successfully raised €5 million to advance its fully automated vertical farming technology, a move that underscores the growing demand for sustainable food production solutions. The funding round includes a significant €1.6 million grant from Innovation Norway, complemented by €3.4 million from existing investors. This financial boost will enable Avisomo to refine its innovative indoor farming systems, which aim to facilitate large-scale local food production while minimizing environmental impact.
Martin Molenaar, CEO and co-founder of Avisomo, emphasized the company’s mission to integrate its technology into existing supply chains. “Our technology is designed to integrate smoothly into existing supply chains, eliminating the need for local expertise in cultivation, chemistry, or technical operations,” he explained. This approach allows customers to produce fresh food locally throughout the year, utilizing fewer resources and extending shelf life, all while avoiding the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods over long distances.
Founded in 2018 as a student project at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Avisomo has developed automated and modular vertical farming solutions that cater to organizations aiming to grow vegetables indoors. The concept of vertical farming involves cultivating plants in stacked layers, optimizing space utilization and employing hydroponic or aeroponic techniques to deliver nutrients through water-based solutions instead of soil. This method not only maximizes yield per square meter but also significantly reduces water usage, a critical factor in sustainable agriculture.
One of the standout advantages of vertical farming is its potential to reduce food waste. Avisomo highlights that up to 30% of imported lettuce is lost before it even reaches grocery store shelves. By growing produce in a controlled indoor environment, the risk of disease is minimized, leading to longer shelf life and fresher products available to consumers. Moreover, by increasing local food production, Avisomo’s technology could substantially lower transport emissions associated with imported crops.
Sverre H. Bjørnstad, Director of Innovation Norway Innlandet, praised Avisomo’s execution capabilities and innovative approach. He noted the company’s focus on developing a fully automated facility for vertical hydroponic cultivation, which could bolster Norway’s self-sufficiency in food production. “We have assessed the project as both groundbreaking and innovative, and deem it to address some of the global challenges in food production,” he stated, highlighting the significant export potential for the company.
The timing of this funding is particularly strategic for Avisomo, as it approaches the completion of its industrial pilot project in collaboration with Norwegian food retailer Coop. Set to commence operations in the summer of 2025, this facility aims to produce up to 100 tons of fresh lettuce annually, focusing on varieties that are typically imported. This project not only represents a step forward for Avisomo but also signals a broader shift towards sustainable practices in the agricultural sector, aligning with global efforts to enhance food security and reduce environmental impact.
