Call for partners: New crops for greenhouses

The current business model of greenhouse horticulture is under pressure. By diversifying production, new value chains and markets can emerge. This can be achieved through plant compounds for food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and (agro)chemistry, as well as through new high value crops and cultivars that generate added value.
WUR therefore works with companies and other organisations to develop new business models that strengthen the vitality of the greenhouse horticulture sector, both in the Netherlands and abroad.

Opportunities through plant compounds

We are working on the production of medicines from plants, as well as on developing natural fragrances, colours and flavours. Many plants produce compounds that are interesting for further processing, but these often occur in low or variable concentrations. A greenhouse is an excellent instrument for steering the plant processes responsible for the formation of such compounds. We aim to optimise production through horticultural and plant physiological research.

New crops, new opportunities

New crops also offer great potential. We are investigating new species for various applications. The products are at different stages of development — from initial screening in the “nursery”, where we monitor plant growth and flowering, to introduction into practice based on a detailed business case.

We are looking for entrepreneurs and companies in greenhouse horticulture and related sectors who wish to collaborate on new applications, crops or business models. Cooperation takes place within consortia, where partners — for a modest contribution — benefit from joint research, shared knowledge and a strong network.

There is no fixed start or end date. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.