Indoor Ag-Con Preview

It’s time to meet with peers at Indoor Ag-Con ‘24 and learn more about growing technology systems, equipment, crop selection, the supply chain, business policy, societal impact and much more. Our preview guide provides a glimpse at some educational seminars you may find valuable.

For the full list of educational sessions and speaker bios, go to indoor.ag/conference-program.

Again this year, Indoor Ag-Con will co-locate with the National Grocers Association Show for independent grocers March 11-12 at Caesars Forum. Attendees from each event will have access to both shows.

Show schedule:

Location: Caesars Forum, Las Vegas

Monday, March 11

8 a.m. Welcome remarks and keynote

9 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. Conference tracks

11 a.m. – 11:50 a.m. Keynote address

Noon – 6:30 p.m. Expo floor open 

12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Conference lunch

2p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Expo theater sessions

5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Expo floor happy hour

Tuesday, March 12

8 a.m. Keynote address

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Expo floor open

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Theatre sessions

12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Conference lunch

1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Conference tracks 

Speakers, times and locations are subject to change.

Monday, March 11

8 a.m. – 8:50 a.m.

Keynote: Paul Sellew, Little Leaf Farms

Little Leaf Farms is the largest U.S. greenhouse producer of hydroponic baby greens and sold in over 5,000 grocery stores and fine dining establishments. Sellew has built a successful career on his belief in sustainable agriculture.

Sellew is on a mission to transform the way food is grown through peri-urban agricultural practices that are rebuilt for the modern world. With an emphasis on a “farming company” mindset as opposed to taking a “tech play” approach to growing food, Little Leaf Farms is poised to break $100 million in sales by the end of the calendar year.

Using advanced greenhouse technologies, Little Leaf Farms has been growing fresh, sustainably farmed lettuce 365 days a year since 2015.

9 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.

Balancing For Success – Optimizing CO2, Light and Temperature

Experts will look at the intricate interplay between CO2 enrichment, light intensity and temperature control, and how to strike the perfect balance.

Speakers: Andy Rape, Leaficient; Karla Garcia, Hort Americas; David Imberti, Percival Scientific; Rose Sequin, Sollum Technologies.

9 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.

Growing With Artificial Intelligence: Automation and AI Advances in Horticulture

This panel will discuss the latest trends, advancements and challenges in integrating automation and AI into various aspects of CEA operations, including crop monitoring, precision farming, harvesting and more.

Speakers: Nick Genty, AgEye Technologies; Adam Greenberg, IUNU, Ronald Hoek, Blue Radix

9 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.

Plotting Success: The Secrets of Smart Land Selection in CEA

Panelists will explore key factors to consider, such as climate suitability, proximity to markets, infrastructure requirements, access to resources and zoning regulations. Learn about GIS analysis and data-driven decision-making to help identify the most suitable locations. Hear about innovative approaches to land selection, such as repurposing existing structures and evaluating unconventional urban spaces.

Speakers: Daniel Plant, Plant Dynamics; Dave Vosburg, Local Bounti; Rick Drescher, Savills; Justin Ross, LIVIC Civil

10 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.

Navigating Greenhouse Building Success

Industry-leading experts and experienced greenhouse growers come together to explore the intricacies of greenhouse building. Gain valuable insights into the key questions to ask when engaging with builders, strategies for designing efficient and sustainable structures, and other essential considerations. The panel will delve into greenhouse construction, addressing various topics such as selecting the ideal materials, optimizing climate control systems, integrating renewable energy solutions, and ensuring optimal space utilization and more.

Speakers: Bas Duijvestijn, Van der Hoeven Horticultural Projects; Carl Gupton, Greenswell Growers; John McMahon, Better Future Farms

10 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.

Bridging the Gap Between CEA Producers and Buyers

This discussion will provide valuable insights into how indoor growers and retail buyers and distributors can work together to meet the growing demand for fresh, locally grown produce.

Speakers: Vonnie Estes, International Fresh Produce Association; Jill Carlson, Plenty; Craig Carlson, Carlson Produce Consulting

10 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.

Rooting Innovation: Cultivating Success with CEA Substrates

From conventional soilless mediums to sustainable bio-based solutions, panelists will share how substrates can help optimize plant growth, water usage and nutrient delivery.

Speakers: Jennifer Neujahr, Profile Products; Brian E. Jackson, NCSU; Ryan Rand, Pure Life Carbon; Martin Trepanier, Premier Tech Horticulture

2 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. 

CEA Perspective & Collaboration: A Call to Action

This session will address a critical issue facing CEA: a lack of collaboration. Despite the industry’s rapid progress, there’s a noticeable absence of a unified flight plan. Aaron Fields will provide practical insights by sharing examples of successful industry collaborations and tangible paths to cooperation. Discover how combining efforts and perspectives can drive the industry toward a more cohesive and prosperous future.

Speaker: Aaron Fields, Eden Green Technology

3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. 

Selecting the Right Consultant

Panelists will explore the essential criteria and considerations for selecting the perfect consultant to align with your specific needs. From assessing their expertise in sustainable practices to ensuring compatibility with your operational goals, this session aims to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions when enlisting external support for your CEA venture.

Speakers: Erika Summer, VF Advisors; Henry Gordon Smith, Agritecture; Chris Cerveny, Bridge City Global

Editor’s note: Read more about Eden Green in our March cover story at bit.ly/Eden-Green-CEA

Tuesday, March 12

8 a.m. – 8:50 a.m.

Keynote: Adam Bergman, Global Head of AgTech for Citi

1:30 p.m. - 2:20 p.m. 

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus affects tomato and pepper production. This panel discussion will delve into the critical aspects of managing, preventing and developing resistance strategies.

Speakers: Jim DiMenna, Red Sun Farms; Tyler Williams, Pathosans

1:30 p.m. - 2:20 p.m. 

Cutting Through the Noise: Navigating the Future of CEA with Candid Insights

Panelists will share candid insights and experiences, shedding light on the strategies and considerations necessary for thriving in this rapidly evolving landscape.

1:30 p.m. - 2:20 p.m. 

Scaling Sustainably: Cultivating Growth Strategies

This session will cover key topics such as operational optimization, technology integration, supply chain management, workforce development and market expansion. Discover the latest advancements in automation, robotics, data analytics and artificial intelligence that enable seamless expansion and enhanced productivity.

2:30 p.m. - 3:20 p.m. 

Using Microgrids for Energy & Economic Resiliency

Broad electrification dynamics in the utility market combined with new federal incentives are driving opportunities to reduce traditional capital investment. Microgrids utilizing distributed energy resources can be "value stacked" to reduce capital or be framed in an Energy as a Service business model. Learn how to leverage programs to achieve resiliency and sustainability goals while reducing or eliminating initial first cost (Energy as a Service) for Microgrid and renewable distributed generation projects.

Speakers: Mohammed Oufattole, Revol Greens; Gretchen Schimelpfenig, ERI; Mark Liston, PowerSource; Eric Bratcher, 5

2:30 p.m. - 3:20 p.m. 

Seeds of Success: Navigating Variety Selection for Thriving Indoor Crops

Learn key factors to consider when evaluating and comparing different varieties, such as yield potential, disease resistance, flavor profiles and suitability for controlled environments. Explore the intersection of traditional breeding techniques and innovative technologies, like genetic modification and hybridization, that are revolutionizing the field of indoor agriculture and more.

Speakers: Matt Lingard, BrightFarms; Tracy Lee Zogby, Sakata Seed America; Aaron Crawford, Sensei Ag; Dan Ovadya, FloraGen LLC

2:30 p.m. - 3:20 p.m. 

The Aquaponics Advantage: Navigating the Waters of Integration, Challenges and Opportunities

Panelists will share insights on the suitability of aquaponics for different types of growers. Discover the key factors to consider when evaluating the feasibility of aquaponics, including system design, water quality management, fish species selection, plant compatibility and market demand.

Speakers: Joshua Dusci, Aquaponics Association; Sam Fleming, 100 Gardens; Brandon Gottsacker, Superior Fresh

3:30 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. 

Roadmap to Data Standardization in CEA

Without reliable and accessible sources of accurate and current data, the growth and success of the entire CEA/vertical farming industry will continue to be restrained by a lack of relevant financial products, risk management services and appropriate regulation. Panelists will delve into the intricacies of establishing data standards, fostering a collaborative environment and unlocking the full potential of CEA.

Speakers: Tom Zoellner, Farm Tech Society; Curt Meltzer, Curt Meltzer CEA Consulting LLC; Rick Schnieders, Siemens

3:30 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. 

USDA’s Growing Vision for Controlled Environment Agriculture

Representatives from the USDA will provide a comprehensive understanding of USDA programs that support CEA, how governmental policies are developing to foster the rapidly evolving indoor agriculture sector and how the USDA is currently promoting sustainable agriculture practices and technologies.

Photo courtesy of Chris Cerveny

Produce Grower: What’s the biggest CEA story of 2023?

Chris Cerveny: A lot has happened in 2023. The biggest news stories were a lot of the shocks of farms closing that we didn’t think were going to happen. AeroFarms was my biggest shock, in terms of them declaring bankruptcy. But the best story of the year in my opinion is that they exited their bankruptcy successfully.

When all it seemed like we were getting bad news on farms closing, right in time for CEA Summit East sponsored by Indoor Ag-Con, AeroFarms came out of Chapter 11 and they explained how they did it and the retailers still had excitement [about them]. It’s so important for our category to see success and to get investors back interested in the space.

PG: At CEA Summit East, AeroFarms’ Guy Blanchard compared the industry to the electric car industry taking a long time to really develop. What did you make of that and seeing them go through Chapter 11 in such a public way?

CC: I am right there with him — it takes a long time. What he was really saying was electric cars have been around for a long time, they were just before their time. Combustion engines took off and we are just now getting back to electric cars. But some of the first ever cars invented were electric and then they invested in combustion engines. It’s just that parallel — that specifically vertical farming may be just ahead of its time. I still think it’s an appropriate way to grow plants inside — it’s just a matter of what cost you grow them at and if you can sell them at a high enough price to justify the costs of production. In some parts of the world, it makes sense.

PG: What is the current state of vertical farming in your opinion?

CC: Think about the reduction of the amount of steel you need in a vertical farm that we understand now. In the beginning, we just said, ‘It just has to be able to support a parking garage’ and now it’s just needing to support an NFT trough. That’s a completely different amount of steel.

I don’t see it as a greenhouse vs. vertical farm conversation. Certainly that has to be decided when you’re thinking about building a facility of your own. If I am trying to compete with field grown, I lean more toward [greenhouse grown]. If I’m trying to focus more on pesticide free crops and quality, I tend to want to be in a vertical farm or at least fully indoor because it’s a very similar thing with the cannabis market. People don’t think of cannabis and lettuce being that similar, but the finished quality in what you expect as a consumer at retail is similar. The best quality cannabis is still grown in isolation. But you can grow it in a greenhouse or grow it outside — you’re just sacrificing some quality. I see similar things with leafy greens.

PG: What are the big opportunities for this industry?

CC: I think it’s tempting to loop all the benefits CEA can provide for society into one project, but I think we have to separate them out. Food security and feeding people and solving hunger is important and someone needs to solve that. But the other is that CEA needs to charge more money to stay in business. We don’t have subsidies like grain crops do and we probably won’t have them for a long time. So we need to a price at retail that is justified. I think that will be the industry working together to raise prices and get more per pound to allow these operations to be sustainable. To sustain, they need more money.

With inflation, prices went up on us anyway. But consumers are still buying salad. They are still eating healthy and eating more healthy than ever before. I think we are missing out on nutrition claims, too — there’s a huge opportunity in CEA to talk about nutrition as a differentiator between field grown. If we can do both of those things in a big way, it would be huge for the industry.

Photo courtesy of Gretchen Schimelpfenig

In 2023, The Greenhouse Lighting and Systems Engineering (GLASE) consortium named Gretchen Schimelpfenig as their new executive director. In her role, Schimelpfenig’s primary focus will be on reducing the environmental impact and increasing the profitability of the CEA industry by pioneering and commercializing emerging solutions.

Produce Grower: What was your path to getting into your role as the executive director at GLASE?

Gretchen Schimelpfenig: Living in Vermont, I’ve worked with the city of Burlington and the University of Vermont on their buildings and helped them implement energy efficiency projects. And during the cannabis legalization process in Vermont, I was able to design an energy rebate program for grow lights in the state and in Burlington. Through that process, I became intrigued with controlled environment agriculture and learned a lot more about greenhouses and the energy-consuming processes involved. So I pivoted my career at that time and lead RII (the Resource Innovation Institute) for a few years.

PG: What can growers learn from a commercial building and apply to their efforts to be more energy efficient? Is there any overlap?

GS: One of the ways we compare different buildings is energy intensity. It’s basically putting a building on a scale and weighing it and saying, ‘this is how much energy you use every year, this is how big of a building you are, this is the type of building you are’ and showing how it stacks up. That helps you decide if you need to focus on energy efficiency or if you’re already doing pretty well. And so, as I learned more about greenhouses and indoor farms — indoor farms especially — I learned that they have energy intensity similar to grocery stores or data centers or hospitals, these really high intensity building types. A lot of those industries benchmark their energy use every year and they understand what energy use they have at different times of day. They monitor their energy usage using interval data and systems that monitor energy so they can understand what is running at night or what’s running at peak times. Regardless of what you’re growing or making or doing or building, they all have energy end uses, and we have to know how to control them.

From a produce grower standpoint, do you know why [your energy bill] is high some months or why it’s low some months? Do you know what equipment is starting to fail because maybe your energy usage is going up? It’s these sorts of things where being curious about why things are changing is helpful.

PG: What are the common questions you are getting from growers and researchers?

GS: The word resilience is coming up a lot right now as energy costs are rising, as climate change continues to change the way growers can adapt to the locations they are operating in. We’re helping growers become aware of things they can do without investing a lot of money —behavioral things they can change about their operation, as well as getting more supportive policies to enable growers to adopt these new technologies. It’s not cheap [to adopt new technology], so a lot of growers need to have multiple sources of support from different levers — government, utility companies, etc. — to make this happen.

I chose to join GLASE because I want to accelerate academic research getting out to growers in a way they can understand, while also getting more attention paid toward CEA as an industry, such as more funding from governments and grants from utility efficiency sources. Right now, it’s very piecemeal and it’s also very foreign to most growers and they don’t have time to understand a lot of it, so it needs to be brought to them in an easy-to-understand way.