New Agrifood Consortium Launched to Boost Innovation in the Netherlands
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 21 October 2025.
The Agrifood Consortium of Excellence (CEIAC) has been established to enhance agrifood research and innovation across five countries, strengthening the Netherlands’ role in sustainable agriculture and food security.
Introduction to CEIAC
The Agrifood Consortium of Excellence (CEIAC) has been launched to spearhead advancements in agrifood research and innovation across five countries, notably enhancing the Netherlands’ contribution to sustainable agriculture and food security. This consortium is a collaborative effort backed by universities, research centers, and international organizations, committed to addressing pressing challenges in food security and sustainable agricultural practices [1].
Focus and Structure of the Consortium
CEIAC’s primary mission is to fortify regional agrifood training, research, and innovation through academic, scientific, and technical cooperation. This initiative is supported by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and ceiA3, an entity with over 15 years of experience in promoting agrifood sector advancements in Andalusia, Spain. The consortium aims to develop regional diploma, specialization, and microcredential programs, and create a network for teacher and student exchanges, enhancing educational and professional capacities in the agrifood sector [1].
Strategic Goals and Financial Backing
The CEIAC has strategic plans to organize regional forums, discussions, and weekly publications. It also aims to formulate pilot projects for technical and scientific cooperation, with a potential for international financing. In support of these initiatives, IICA has allocated a $30,000 seed fund to promote the consortium’s first joint projects. This financial backing is crucial for the consortium to launch its initial endeavors and achieve its ambitious goals [1].
Impact on the Netherlands and Innovation
By positioning itself as a leader in agrifood innovation, the Netherlands can leverage CEIAC’s resources and networks to implement cutting-edge research and sustainable practices. The consortium’s efforts are expected to generate significant advancements in agrifood technologies, potentially influencing global food security and sustainability standards. With a focus on bioeconomy, digitalization, and rural development, CEIAC is set to transform the agrifood landscape in the Netherlands and beyond [1].