The AgrifoodTEF project is using artificial intelligence to improve irrigation.
To make the EU the place where AI excellence thrives from the lab to the market, the European Union is setting up world-class Testing and Experimentation Facilities (TEFs) for AI. The Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) invests in these (TEFs) for Trustworthy AI. One example is the AgrifoodTEF. This project aims to bring AI and robotics solutions to market to help the agri-food sector. This will enable farmers to access the full benefit of AI and AI-powered robotics technologies – one example being AI being used to create a predictive model to optimise sprinkler irrigation. It will allow more sustainable and affordable food, brought to Europe’s shelves and tables in an efficient and competitive way.
Main Facts
EU co-funding
€30 million
Duration
5-year project started in January 2023
34 partners in 9 countries
Sectors
Arable farming
Livestock farming
Horticulture
Viticulture
Food processing
Tree crops
Impact
Adopting robotic, selective weeding and satellite-based technologies to improve autonomous vehicle performances used in agriculture.
Optimising natural resources fertilisers, pesticides, and water for Mediterranean crops (Fruit orchards, Olive groves).
AI-based livestock management and organic feed production improving the sustainability of cows, pigs and poultry farming.
Better traceability in the production and supply chains.
Getting the precise right balance of nutrients while ensuring crop and yield quality.
Results
The Agrifood TEF published a catalogue containing more than 200 AI services that can help companies to develop, test, and roll out AI and robotic products.
Over 50 services are already being delivered by its partners to SMEs and other innovators. It ultimately aims to help over 5,000 innovators, with a minimum of 75% being SMEs.
Testimonial
“Thanks to the support of the Digital Europe Programme we aim to improve the speed of the digitalisation of the agricultural sector. The programme provides support that helps SMEs to test and validate their digital solutions for agriculture. The programme also helps to catalyse contacts between experts, companies that provide digital solutions and the final adopters: the farmers.”
Raffaele Giaffreda, AgrifoodTEF European project coordinator and Chief IoT Scientist at FBK, Chief Innovation Officer at TESSA Agritech srl
The Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) is an EU programme aimed at integrating digital technology into businesses, public services, and everyday life.
It targets six areas: high-performance computing, AI, cybersecurity, digital skills, widespread digital adoption, and semiconductors. DIGITAL acquires digital technologies, partners with European entities to create practical solutions, and provides outcomes that boost Europe's digital independence and competitiveness.