IFAMA 2025 to spotlight Brazil’s rise as agribusiness innovation hub with startup pitches and student competitions
The upcoming IFAMA World Agribusiness Conference is gearing up for its 35th edition, set to be an exceptional showcase of innovation in agriculture. Scheduled for June 22 to 26, 2025, in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, the event promises to connect a diverse group of approximately 600 participants, including agribusiness leaders, executives, producers, researchers, and investors from over 50 countries. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time the conference is held in Brazil, underlining the nation's burgeoning role in the global agribusiness landscape.
SNASH, a prominent network supporting agricultural innovation, will play a pivotal role at the conference. The organisation claims that selected startups from its network will have the opportunity to pitch at the IFAMA Innovation Space. This platform aims not only to showcase innovative agribusiness models but also to facilitate strategic networking opportunities. By engaging directly with key industry players, these startups can gain visibility and foster crucial connections that may accelerate their growth and impact within the sector.
The conference will feature a range of activities, including panel discussions, workshops, technical visits, and exhibitions, all designed to explore pressing themes such as sustainability, technology advancement, and the future of food production. According to IFAMA, these initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges facing the agribusiness sector today. Participants can expect insights into emerging trends and innovations, as the event aims to highlight best practices that could potentially reshape the agricultural landscape on a global scale.
Adding to the excitement is the IFAMA 2025 Student Case Competition, which invites teams from prestigious universities worldwide. This unique opportunity allows students to hone their analytical and problem-solving skills, with divisions for undergraduates, graduates, and early-career professionals. The competition culminates in a Grand Finale during the Business Forum, providing participants not only with cash prizes but also internship opportunities, thereby bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application in the agribusiness field.
Furthermore, an Academic Symposium will run alongside the main conference, offering scholars a platform to present papers on critical themes such as technology, environmental impact, and health challenges in agribusiness. This initiative is designed to foster knowledge exchange and highlight research that could lead to innovative solutions for sustainable agribusiness practices.
The event will also host an array of distinguished speakers, including experts in public affairs, international strategy, biotechnology, and agribusiness policy. Notably, presenters like Andréa Veríssimo and Marcelo Eskenazi will lend their expertise to discussions centred around sustainability and the future of food production. Their involvement underscores the conference's dedication to tackling the urgent issues facing the global agribusiness community.
Simultaneously, the World Agri-Tech South America Summit, occurring just days later on June 24 and 25, will further spotlight the region's potential in scaling innovations for sustainable, climate-smart farming practices. With over 700 delegates expected, this summit serves as another significant platform for networking and investment opportunities, reinforcing the burgeoning agri-food ecosystem in South America.
In conclusion, IFAMA 2025 not only emphasises Brazil's strategic importance in global agribusiness but also serves as a valuable conduit for innovation and collaboration among industry leaders, startups, and academia. As the world increasingly confronts challenges like climate change and food security, events such as this become crucial in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.