Smart Autonomy for Precision Agriculture [SAPA]

This project addresses the challenge of accelerating the adoption of robotics and precision agriculture in Bayern and the Netherlands by focusing on three key technological areas: advanced irrigation and water management, practical robotics implementation, and data exchange for arable farming.

The primary objective is to foster collaboration between Dutch and Bayern industry and research partners, bridging the gap in business cases for these technologies. International cooperation is crucial due to the complementary strengths of the regions; Bayern's robust ag-tech industry can drive robotics adoption in the Netherlands, while Dutch expertise in precision agriculture modeling benefits Bayern farmers.

The project aims to establish a network that translates research into marketable solutions. Target groups include local machine builders, end-users, and farm advisors, who will be actively engaged through workshops and field visits. This initiative builds upon the 2024 RvO trade mission to Bayern and leverages insights from EU and national projects like Robs4Crops and NPPL-Robotics.

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) will contribute innovative approaches to parameterizing irrigation models, optimizing sensor placement, and adapting agricultural machinery for specific farming practices. The project will involve technical innovation for water management and data exchange, and social innovation to facilitate the adoption of robotics. Activities include workshops in both regions, resulting in a roadmap, workshop reports, and a project proposal for 2026-2029.

CropX leads the consortium, with partners like BO Akkerbouw, LFL and WUR contributing expertise. The Dutch Embassy will provide regional support. Outcomes will be disseminated at Agritechnica 2025 and through future project proposals to TKI or EU Horizon.