Agri-Tech Week 2025, a series of free events hosted by members of Agri-TechE, is set to take place from October 20 to 24. This annual initiative brings together farmers, scientists, technologists, and entrepreneurs to showcase innovation, collaboration, and creativity within the agri-tech community. The week-long event aims to foster vital connections between growers, researchers, and technology developers, reflecting the energy and ingenuity of the sector across the UK.
Dr. Belinda Clarke, director of Agri-TechE, highlighted the diverse range of topics and locations covered during the week, from gene editing in Norwich to carbon removal in Devon. “As a member-led organisation, we’re proud to have convened this national conversation for the past 12 years to showcase the vibrant agri-tech ecosystem,” she said. “It’s really a celebration of collaboration – connecting farmers, researchers, and technologists to drive innovation, ensuring it is developed effectively for maximum impact.”
East Anglia will host several events during Agri-Tech Week 2025. On October 20, the Earlham Institute in Norwich will explore the latest applications of research for soil health, soil microbiome, and root-soil interactions. The same day, The Morley Agricultural Foundation near Wymondham will delve into the New Farming Systems Experiments, which aim to develop bio-sustainable cropping systems for conventional arable cropping.
Other events in the region include a farm-based discussion on making the most of organic materials at Eriswell Lodge near Lakenheath on October 22, and an exclusive speaker event on pioneering gene editing in agriculture at the Norfolk Showground on October 23. Dr. Philip Zegerman from biotech company Tropic will explain how the firm’s ground-breaking gene-editing technology is transforming agriculture and advancing global food security.
Following Agri-Tech Week, Agri-TechE’s flagship annual conference, REAP, will take place on November 4 at the KingsGate Centre in Peterborough. The conference will discuss the future of agriculture in a rapidly-changing industry facing increasing pressures on finances, labour, resources, and land use. Baroness Minette Batters, a former NFU president and current member of the House of Lords, will deliver the keynote speech. She has been appointed by the government to lead a review into farm profitability and will share her conclusions and reflections at the event.
The conference will feature panel discussions with leading farmers, including James Beamish, director of the Holkham Farming Company in north Norfolk, and Andrew Blenkiron, managing director of Elveden Farms near Thetford. Defra’s head of climate mitigation, Harley Stoddart, will also explain how scientific theory shapes decisions in the field. The Start-Up Showcase will present innovative ideas for the future of farming.
Agri-Tech Week 2025 and the REAP conference provide valuable opportunities for the agri-tech community to connect, learn, and collaborate. These events highlight the importance of innovation and technology in driving sustainable and profitable farming practices, addressing the challenges faced by the industry today and in the future.