Agritecture recently spoke with Kim Schotborgh from GreenTech Amsterdam about what attendees can expect from this year’s event, where the central theme is PURE: a focus on transparent, responsible, and sustainable cultivation. As the horticulture sector continues to navigate rising energy costs, water scarcity, labor shortages, and growing pressure to produce more with fewer resources, GreenTech Amsterdam 2026 is positioning itself as a place where the industry can move from conversation to action.

This year’s edition will spotlight innovations that support climate-resilient and resource-efficient growing, including the launch of two new Theme Worlds: Tech World, focused on AI, robotics, and data, and Green World, centered on crops and sustainable growing methods. From fossil-free cultivation to algae-based production, the event aims to showcase how the future of horticulture is becoming not only more advanced, but more accountable.

1: GreenTech Amsterdam has become the premier event for horticulture technology. What aspects of the upcoming 2026 edition excite you the most? Are there particular innovations or trends that you think will surprise returning attendees?

This year’s theme of GreenTech is PURE, with a strong focus on transparent, responsible and sustainable cultivation. And the two new ‘Theme Worlds’ will also be introduced: Tech World (AI, robotics and data) and Green World (crops and sustainable growing methods). At these worlds visitors can learn more about topics such as fossil-free cultivation and algae-based production.

And of course, our the GreenTech Innovation Awards 2026 including all the nominees. According to the jury, the focus is shifting from data collection to actionable insights. Innovations increasingly translate data into real-time decision support, with AI playing a key role. However, the potential of well-structured data remains underused. Greater integration between systems is needed to move beyond siloed innovation and unlock real impact.

2. How many exhibitors will be and from how many countries?

520 exhibitors, from 44 countries.

3. The show organises its programme around the themes of Crops, Water, Energy and People. Could you explain why these themes were chosen and how they reflect the challenges growers face today? Which theme do you expect will generate the most discussion this year?

• Crops: Focuses on productivity, new varieties and cultivation techniques needed to meet global demand for fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers.
• Water: Addresses growing challenges around water scarcity, quality and efficient usage.
• Energy: Reflects the sector’s urgent transition towards lower energy consumption and climate-neutral production.
• People: Highlights labour, knowledge transfer and the human capital needed to operate increasingly high-tech systems.

Together, these pillars mirror the structural challenges growers face today: climate change, rising costs, labour shortages and the need for sustainable intensification.

Ongoing volatility in energy markets and the sector’s push towards decarbonization will certainly generate discussion, followed closely by the increasing need for solutions to water minimization and labour shortages in the industry. This is further compounded by the overall unstable geopolitical landscape, which is driving countries to enhance their food security.

4. How many sessions and speakers are you planning for 2026, and what sorts of topics will be covered in the knowledge programme?

GreenTech Amsterdam 2026 will feature 80+ knowledge sessions and over 200 speakers.

The programme will cover topics such as:

• AI and robotics in greenhouse production
• Crop intelligence and data-driven growing
• Energy efficiency and climate resilience
• Global food security and controlled environment agriculture

5. Who should consider attending GreenTech Amsterdam 2026, and how do you ensure the event delivers value to both first-time visitors and returning professionals?

GreenTech Amsterdam is designed for the entire horticulture ecosystem, including:

• Growers and breeders
• Greenhouse technology suppliers
• Investors
• Retailers
• Policymakers
  

We ensure value for both first-time and returning visitors by combining:

• A complete overview of the global market on horticulture
• Hands-on discovery of innovations
• High-quality networking opportunities
  
  

Returning visitors benefit from new innovations and evolving trends, while newcomers gain an introduction to the industry in one place.
As mentioned, this year’s theme of GreenTech is PURE, with a strong focus on transparent, responsible and sustainable cultivation. This theme is prominently reflected throughout the knowledge programme. And the two new ‘Theme Worlds’: Tech World (AI, robotics and data) and Green World (crops and sustainable growing methods). Here, visitors can learn more about topics such as fossil-free cultivation and algae-based production.

6. With energy and water being major themes, what steps is GreenTech taking to highlight sustainable practices and climate-resilient technologies? Are you seeing more exhibitors and sessions focused on energy efficiency, renewable resources or circular horticulture?

Sustainability is central to GreenTech, especially within the energy and water themes. We are seeing a clear increase in:

• Solutions for energy efficiency and alternative energy sources
• Technologies for water reuse, treatment and precision irrigation
• Innovations supporting circular horticulture and CO₂ reduction
  
  Across both the exhibition floor and the knowledge programme, there is a strong emphasis on climate-resilient growing systems and resource optimization, reflecting the sector’s long-term transition.

7. Attendees often mention that the real value of GreenTech lies in the conversations they have on the show floor. How do you foster community at such a large event? Will there be new networking formats or opportunities in 2026?

We very much suggest all the visitors and exhibitors to download the GreenTech App which includes matchmaking, an interactive floorplan, and the opportunity to design your personal agenda with your chosen knowledge sessions. By attending the knowledge sessions, based on your preference, you can for sure meet your peers. Reach out to the speakers, and professionals expected in the audience. By connecting you will meet new interesting, valuable and long-lasting business relations and get maximally inspired. It will broaden your horizon for sure!

8. GreenTech is launching its first North American event in Philadelphia on 23-24 September 2026 with about 90 exhibitors and 1,000 attendees expected. How will GreenTech North America complement the Amsterdam and Mexico shows, and what unique opportunities does it offer to exhibitors and visitors from North America?

GreenTech North America is a natural extension of the GreenTech portfolio, designed specifically for the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) market in the US and Canada.
Amsterdam remains the global flagship fort he global community, Mexico (Americas) focuses on Latin American markets and North America brings a dedicated platform for the fast-growing CEA sector for the USA and Canada

We have chosen for Philadelphia with its unique focus on:

• Easy market access from across North America and international destinations
• Local partnerships and policy alignment
• Rapidly growing greenhouse and vertical farming segments

For exhibitors and visitors this new event, it offers a highly focused opportunity to connect directly with North American decision-makers and accelerate market entry or expansion.

Come find us

Three days. One booth. The full Agritecture team. We're here to talk projects, models, software, and the next phase of climate-smart agriculture.

Book a meeting at the booth: Niko@agritecture.com

See you at Booth #05.557A. Enjoy the show!