The Agrofoodcluster builds connections in the entire chain of open field production. We are a non-competitive cluster. Within the cluster entrepreneurs, education, government and research work together. All aspects of the open field production are represented. The cluster plays a central role. We have an extensive and active network. We work together on topics about the open field cultivation.
FOR & BY ENTREPRENEURS
The Agrofoodcluster is a foundation set up for and by entrepreneurs. As a result, we know what is important. We are real go-getters, connected, and work in a practical way. Together with our stakeholders, we respond to current events within the sector. We work on themes that are vital to all stakeholders. Because we focus on themes that concern the whole sector, competitors can work together within the Agrofoodcluster too. We learn from each other; there is close cooperation between entrepreneurs and education, but also government and research institutions work together with the Agrofoodcluster.
ABOUT EDUCATION
Education plays a major role within the cluster. Collaboration with the educational sector exists at multiple levels. An example is that the Agrofoodcluster wants to bridge the gap between businesses and educational institutions. We realise this by bringing various parties together by hosting job application training sessions at schools, for instance.
We teach classes on location too, e.g. about supply chain management or the importance of clusters. During these sessions, also an entrepreneur is always there to share insights as well.
Furthermore, we organise tours to our showcase field or one of our stakeholders for elementary and high-school students. This allows us to shed light on the sector in an accessible manner, improve its familiarity and show the sector in terms of job opportunities and functions.
ABOUT RESEARCH
As a leader in seed potato cultivation, we have a great deal of knowledge about this sector. Constant research is needed to maintain this position. This makes research an important aspect in the food chain. This is not only done for potatoes, but also for crops such as onions, carrots, chicory and beets.
Participants in the cluster, such as the NAK and HLBbv, are active in research. The development centres of HZPC, Agrico Research, KWS and Den Hartigh conduct a ton of research each year. These parties are important links in the (potato) chain.
Furthermore, we have ties to parties active in the open cultivation and technology sectors at the scientific and practical level.
ABOUT GOVERNMENT
Collaboration and coordination are paramount for the proper functioning of a sector. As a cluster, we have an extensive network with various parts of the government. This occurs at different levels, from the national level down to the local level. We also maintain close bonds with government organizations, like the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). This allows us to open themes that affect our entrepreneurs up for discussion. We also develop cooperative alliances and partnerships to develop new technologies, for instance, or discuss the conditions in the labour market.
AGROFOODCLUSTER = A NETWORK TO BUILD ON
The Agrofoodcluster has an extensive network of proud stakeholders who are active in or affiliated with one of the four subjects within open field production: Entrepreneur, Education, Government or Research. The entire chain is represented in the Agrofoodcluster, from development to financial services, engineering, ICT, and research to education. A strong network within open cultivation is created by focusing on joint subjects.
