Why this mission will advance your position in France
France is the largest agtech market in Europe. With the France 2030 investment programme and a strong focus on sustainable agriculture and digitalisation, the country offers the ideal environment for sharing knowledge, exchanging technology and building new partnerships. During this mission, supported by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, you will join other Dutch companies aiming to strengthen their international position. You will meet French entrepreneurs, buyers, technology partners and public organisations that are actively seeking collaboration.
The mission is part of the Dutch-French Economic Year. The visit of the Royal Couple to Toulouse marks a key moment in this collaboration, which focuses on strategic sectors such as agrifood, aerospace and energy. Within the Handsfree Agrifood ecosystem, you will broaden both your network and your perspective on market needs, application potential and innovation opportunities.
What to expect from the programme
Wednesday 1 October | Technology and future vision
The first day focuses on the technologies of tomorrow and how they contribute to autonomous and data-driven agriculture and horticulture. The programme takes place in and around Toulouse, the innovation hub of southwest France.
You can expect:
A presentation of a collaboration or memorandum of understanding between French and Dutch parties.
A technology showcase at Domaine de Candie featuring smart equipment, data solutions, software, drones and robotics from both Dutch and French companies.
A meeting with CUMA Occitanie, the collective for the purchase and use of agricultural machinery.
Conversations with French and Dutch companies on the future of autonomous and data-driven operations.
A reception and group meeting with the Royal Couple on the estate grounds.
Networking opportunities during a joint reception and dinner in the city of Toulouse.
Thursday 2 October | Practical application and market opportunities
The second day focuses on the practical side of innovation and how market demand is developing in France. You will gain insight into how technology is being adopted and what support is needed to accelerate it.
You can expect:
Meetings with organisations actively working on technology application in open-field and greenhouse horticulture.
Insights into developments in regulation, subsidies and support schemes.
Access to a matchmaking service that connects you with relevant stakeholders based on your preferences.
A visit to a trial site where innovations are tested under real conditions.
Space to address specific interests or adjacent topics brought in by participants.
Practical insights to support your market strategy or partnerships in France.
Tailored matchmaking
A dedicated matchmaking service will be available during the mission in Toulouse. You can indicate in advance the types of organisations you wish to meet and the themes you are interested in. These could include autonomous systems, precision agriculture, greenhouse technology, AI applications, distribution, financing or value chain collaboration. Matchmaking is tailored to your profile and preferences. Meetings are not included by default but can be scheduled based on interest.
Who should join this mission
This mission is aimed at technology companies active in open-field farming, greenhouse horticulture or related sectors. This includes suppliers of precision technology, data platforms, software, autonomous machines, robotics, components and system integration. Both scale-ups and established companies are welcome. Whether you offer solutions to growers, innovate within the value chain or seek market entry, this mission adds value. Participation is also relevant for business developers, innovation managers or executives.
Why Toulouse matters
The mission takes place in the Occitanie region, the agricultural heart of France with over 60,000 farms. Toulouse is not only a technology hotspot, but also where agriculture, digitalisation and innovation intersect. France is one of the world's largest agricultural exporters and the second export market for Dutch agrotechnology after Germany. The region offers concrete opportunities to work together on solutions for climate adaptation, labour shortages, water management and productivity.
What participation will bring you
This is your opportunity to become visible in a market that is evolving. You will meet potential customers, partners and policymakers. You can showcase your technology while gaining insights into market needs. The mission helps you refine your international strategy, build new networks and create tangible connections for export, cooperation or joint development. The presence of the Royal Couple adds visibility and impact to the Dutch delegation.
Participation fee
Participation costs €950 per organisation. Two participants per organisation are included. Each additional participant pays €475. Travel and accommodation are at your own expense. Local organisation and on-site transport related to the mission programme are included.
More information and registration
Would you like to learn more about this mission to the agricultural heart of France or find out whether it aligns with your company’s goalst? Click on the button below or reach out to Suzanne Verboon.
The deadline for registration is 31 July 2025.
After this date, participation can no longer be guaranteed.
The agtech mission is part of a broader Dutch economic mission to France, which also includes civil and military aerospace and floating offshore wind.