DigiAgriFood, the first European Digital Innovation Hub in the Hellenic Agri-food sector, successfully participated in Synergy Days 2025 on October 21–22, 2025, in Rotterdam.
DigiAgriFood’s presence highlighted Greece’s central role in the European Agri-Food Innovation Network and strengthened collaboration with European projects and other Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs).
Democritus University of Thrace and the DigiAgriFood Hub were represented by Ms. Maria Michalopoulou, Coordinator of EDIH and University Board Member, Mr. Georgios Broufas, Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation and Mr. Ioannis Amarantidis, Project Manager of DigiAgriFood.
Specifically, during the Pitch Session, DigiAgriFood presented its work, showcasing actions supporting farmers and businesses through digital services and promoting sustainability via the use of data, artificial intelligence, and innovative technologies.
DigiAgriFood co-organized three thematic workshops, actively contributing experiences, best practices, and research data from the Greek context:
- Trust & Trace – Data Governance for Transparent Food Chains
In collaboration with the FoodDataQuest and OptiFish projects, this workshop focused on data governance to ensure transparency, traceability, and trust in food chains. - From Farm2Fork to Sea2Fork – Empowering Consumers through Data
Also in collaboration with FoodDataQuest and OptiFish, the workshop explored how data can enhance transparency and build consumer trust regarding product origin and quality. - EDIH Thematic Working Group (TWG) – Closing the Digital Gaps
As part of the activities of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), DigiAgriFood participated alongside the ENTIRE, Andalucía Agrotech DIH, and EDIH Bretagne projects in discussions on reducing digital disparities in the agri-food sector.
The session presented educational tools, pilot actions, and SME support models that contribute to spreading digital skills and innovation among farmers and businesses
In parallel with attending sessions and workshops, the delegation from Democritus University of Thrace conducted several visits and technical meetings aimed at knowledge transfer and networking:
- Visit to a greenhouse for cut flower production
The delegation was briefed by producers and agricultural consultants on new cultivation management protocols (pest and disease management using biological controls, new approaches to nutrition management, use of new growth substrates, supplementary lighting to increase production), commercial management of the farm, and challenges related to managing the energy needs of greenhouse units. - Visit to the Wageningen University Research Station
During the visit, the delegation toured the research station, which not only supports the university’s research needs but also operates an infrastructure for testing and evaluating ideas and products for industry and startups. The visit highlighted potential collaborations between research and business entities and opportunities for transferring know-how to Greek innovation ecosystems.
In conclusion, DigiAgriFood’s participation in Synergy Days 2025 offered an excellent opportunity for visibility, collaboration, and knowledge exchange with leading European stakeholders in the agri-food sector.
The Hub’s contributions to workshops and technical visits strengthened its role as a catalyst for the digital transformation and sustainability of Greek agri-food.
