At the 2024 Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit, Norway-based Avisomo emerged as one of the most strategically positioned start-ups in the controlled environment agri-tech space, demonstrating innovation, scalability and operational foresight.

Avisomo designs automated, modular vertical farming systems tailored for industrial use. Their goal is clear: build systems that integrate directly into supply chains. Therefore, eliminating the gap between production and distribution.

With vertical farming at a crossroads, Avisomo’s approach stands out: deep integration into traditional food logistics and a roadmap that’s both technologically advanced and commercially viable.

Rather than relying on bespoke urban farms, Avisomo’s systems are designed for plug-and-play deployment in existing infrastructure, such as distribution centres and warehouses. The model addresses core bottlenecks of traditional agriculture: land, transport, perishability, by growing produce at the point of distribution.

Strategic Presence at the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit

Avisomo joined the summit with a focused agenda: to connect with agri-food leaders across the APAC region and explore regional scalability for their model.

“The summit offered an inspiring mix of innovation, ambition, and honest dialogue. We left with valuable insights and several high-value conversations we’re actively pursuing.”

Their presence underscored a commitment to global relevance while highlighting the region’s growing interest in food security, climate resilience, and supply chain modernisation.

Innovation Focus: Smarter Energy Use

Energy efficiency remains a challenge for vertical farming. Avisomo is addressing this through LED flashing techniques, i.e., pulsing light instead of continuous illumination.

“Preliminary results show up to 15% lower energy usage without reducing yield.”

For regions like APAC, where energy costs are often a barrier to scaling controlled-environment agriculture, innovations like this may be essential to long-term success.

Recent Developments: Funding, Execution, Expansion

Avisomo’s current momentum is underpinned by several milestones:

· NOK 58 million in new funding (approx. USD $5.5M), including a strategic grant from Innovation Norway’s Bioeconomy Programme

· The launch of their first industrial-scale facility, located inside Co-op Norway’s distribution centre producing up to 100 tons of lettuce annually

· A robust partnership with a national retailer, validating vertical farming’s viability within established logistics networks

This facility is a tangible proof point that vertical farming can scale profitably within the frameworks of today’s food systems, despite the current uncertainties faced by the sector.

Industry Outlook: Radical Transparency and Collaborative Progress

Avisomo’s leadership is also vocal about industry culture. They advocate for greater transparency among agri-tech start-ups particularly regarding cost structures, challenges, and failed assumptions.

“We need more radical openness around what’s working and what isn’t. Real progress comes from sharing and iterating together.”

This mindset is increasingly shared by seasoned founders and investors alike, especially as the sector matures beyond early-stage experimentation.

Position Your Start-Up for Global Visibility

If you're a start-up working in food tech, agri-innovation, or sustainability, the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit is a high-leverage opportunity to showcase your solution on a global stage.

Got an idea that can transform the agri-food landscape? Apply now to qualify for the next Start-Up Showcase to connect with VCs, strategic partners, and corporate innovation teams actively seeking solutions for tomorrow’s agri-food systems.