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Fruit Research Innovation Hub

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Fruit Research Innovation Hub

Funding the future of fruit research: Discovery > Innovation > Delivery

Whether supporting growers with integrated pest management strategies, off-setting labour shortages with automation, or helping to preserve our natural resources through reducing water use, research and innovation can help deliver solutions to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the sector.

From fundamental discovery science to the delivery of commercial innovation projects, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funds all stages of research through its different agencies and councils.

This year at Fruit Focus, Innovate UK and BBSRC, both part of UKRI, will be coming together with Growing Kent & Medway, funded by the UKRI Strength in Places Fund, to demonstrate how they invest in innovation.

GKM Innovation Area

Presented by

 

Growing Kent & Medway

 

UKRI Logo

On display will be the latest advances in agri-technology that are being tested for commercial feasibility with Innovate UK funding through the Transforming Food Production Challenge, and Defra’s Farming Innovation Programme. From spectral imaging with Artificial Intelligence, and smart hydro-gels for a wide range of agricultural systems, to machine learning to predict harvesting periods, discover some near-market projects set to revolutionise fruit growing.

With a particular focus on pest and disease research, BBSRC will showcase how their investments into novel controls, detection, forecasting and prevention are helping to drive forward our understanding of the science of new and emerging threats.

Offering a regional perspective, Growing Kent & Medway invests in sustainable innovation. From extending the shelf-life of fresh produce, identifying new value in waste products, to enhancing the nutritional value of fruit. See how businesses are benefiting from collaboration with local research organisations.

The Fruit Research Innovation Hub will connect businesses across the supply chain with research funding opportunities and expertise. This is also an important opportunity to connect the fruit industry with government funders to help inform the future direction of fruit research and innovation. Visit stand 700 and sign up for a tour to see how investing in innovation could help your business grow.

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