The Global CEA Census is the world’s largest recurring survey focused on Controlled Environment Agriculture. Launched in 2019, the census is designed to gather key insights from CEA operators, including vertical farms, greenhouses, and hybrid systems, about their technologies, challenges, and business models. Each year, the survey helps paint a clearer picture of the state of the industry and where it’s headed. 

Focusing on the economics of CEA operations, artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, and sustainability, the 2025 census aims to support everyone from small growers to large-scale operations in making informed decisions.

In 2025, the census has expanded its reach: in addition to farm operators, we are inviting participation from open-field farmers, consultants, researchers, equipment suppliers, CEA enthusiasts, and other ecosystem players to provide a more holistic snapshot of the global food production landscape.

Open from now until Sept. 30, the census is an opportunity for CEA professionals across the globe to contribute to the most accurate and comprehensive dataset in the industry. The survey takes approximately 7-10 minutes to complete and is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Participating in the census means contributing to a shared knowledge base that will help shape the future of the agriculture industry. The data collected will be analyzed and made available for download in a comprehensive report in Q4 of 2025.

Reflecting on Past Censuses

Over the years, the Global CEA Census has highlighted key trends and areas of focus:

• 2019: The inaugural census, conducted with Autogrow, gathered responses from 316 participants across 54 countries, offering a foundational understanding of the global CEA landscape.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• 2020: Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the second census explored the resilience of CEA operations, emphasizing the industry's adaptability during global disruptions.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• 2021: The third edition delved into sustainability metrics, addressing concerns about greenwashing and assessing how growers measure Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) outcomes.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• 2024: With 450 responses from 75 countries, the latest census provided a comprehensive view of CEA practices, emphasizing technology adoption, renewable energy integration, and the challenges faced by operators worldwide. 

Introducing the 2025 Global CEA Census

The 2025 Global CEA Census, launched on May 19, 2025, continues this tradition of industry introspection and growth. This year's survey focuses on:

• Economic Viability: Understanding the financial realities of CEA operations, including cost structures, pricing strategies, and market dynamics.
  
  
• AI Adoption: Exploring the integration of artificial intelligence in CEA, identifying effective applications and barriers to broader implementation.
  
  
• Business Model Innovation: Highlighting new revenue models, sustainable practices, and scalable solutions driving the industry forward.

Henry Gordon-Smith, Founder and CEO of Agritecture, emphasizes the importance of this initiative

"The 2025 Global CEA Census is more than just numbers—it’s a roadmap for the future of farming. By uncovering industry trends and opportunities, we’re helping growers and innovators alike make smarter decisions, accelerate innovation, and drive agriculture toward a more resilient, climate-smart future."

Why Your Participation Matters

Your insights are crucial in shaping a comprehensive understanding of the CEA industry. By participating in the census, you:

• Contribute to Industry Knowledge: Your experiences help map the economic realities and innovation trends shaping CEA today.
  
  
• Benchmark Your Operation: Gain insights into how your business compares to global peers, identifying areas for growth and improvement.
  
  
• Drive Impact: Inform strategies for sustainable growth and smart technology adoption, influencing the future direction of the industry. 

Exclusive Benefits for Participants

To show appreciation for your time and insights, participants who complete the survey are eligible for several incentives:

• Conference Opportunities: Entry into a draw for five complimentary registrations to the CEAg World Conference & Expo, scheduled for November 19–21, 2025, in Durham, North Carolina.
  
  
• Travel Grants: A chance to win a $1,000 travel and accommodation grant to attend the conference.
  
  
• Professional Tools: Twelve months of free Pro access to Agritecture Designer, a leading farm-planning software.
  
  
• Early Access: Receive the 2025 Census Report before its public release.
  
  
• Feature Opportunities: Potential to be highlighted in Agritecture’s “Voices from the Field” campaign and blog or newsletter.
  
  
• Exclusive Content: Access to a private webinar on high-impact industry topics.
  
  
• Consultation: A complimentary 20-minute strategy consultation with an Agritecture consultant.