A Gathering of Innovation: CEAg World Conference and Expo 2024

Henry Gordon-Smith By Henry Gordon-Smith|September 20, 2024

The inaugural CEAg World Conference and Expo was a remarkable showcase of the industry’s latest innovations. From equipment suppliers to service providers, the event brought together stakeholders from across the controlled environment agriculture (CEA) spectrum. It wasn’t just about discussing technology; it was about fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge. The energy and excitement in the room were palpable, as attendees engaged in insightful discussions and presentations that pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in CEA.

What stood out to me the most was the optimism and confidence that participants displayed about the future of CEA. There’s no doubt that this is a sector full of innovation, with small and large companies alike striving to make meaningful contributions to its evolution. The technologies being developed today—from LEDs to AI-driven management systems—are already making a difference, but the potential for further advancements is vast. This event was a testament to the industry’s resilience and adaptability, and it’s clear that the CEAg World Conference and Expo is a must-attend event for anyone invested in the future of agriculture.

At the CEAg World Conference and Expo 2024, I had the opportunity to deliver a keynote talk titled “CEA Pulse Check: What Growers Really Need”, where I shared insights from the CEA Census and discussed key trends and needs within the industry. Additionally, we conducted an engaging workshop with Agritecture Designer. This hands-on session offered participants a strategic approach to planning and expanding their CEA businesses. Attendees gained a comprehensive understanding of critical business considerations, from selecting the right equipment and crops to evaluating market opportunities and designing successful operations.

Learn All About the Inaugural CEAg World Conference and Expo

Interested in more coverage from the inaugural CEAg World Conference and Expo? Check out the following articles that recap the pre-event tour at North Carolina State University, the first day of the conference, and Henry Gordon-Smith’s keynote speech that shares initial findings from the 2024 Global CEA Census. You can find more information about the Global CEA Census and CEA-focused trends from the most recent USDA Ag Census will in the October 2024 edition of CEAg World Insights.

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Did you attend the inaugural CEAg World Conference and Expo in August 2024? Tell us about your experience in the comments.

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Henry Gordon-Smith is Founder and CEO of Agritecture. Henry holds a BA in Political Science, coursework in Food Security and Urban Agriculture, and an MSc in Sustainability Management from Columbia University. He has visited urban farms in 5 continents and worked on community and for profit urban farms. See all author stories here.