By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding welcomed agricultural leaders and technology experts from around the world to Philadelphia for GreenTech North America 2026, the first time the international GreenTech organization has brought its conference to North America.
The event highlights Pennsylvania’s growing role in agricultural technology and innovation, supported by the Shapiro Administration’s economic development strategy and investments in research, technology, and the agricultural workforce.
Held with global ag-tech partners from the Netherlands, the conference brings together more than 1,000 growers and specialists in horticulture, crop production and controlled-environment agriculture. Attendees are exploring new technologies, sustainable production methods, automation, and emerging approaches to food production.
Several Pennsylvania ag-tech companies, including Burro, Four Growers, Local Dutch and INTAG, are also participating. Each company has received support through the state’s Agricultural Innovation Grant Program. Their projects demonstrate the range of technology being developed in Pennsylvania, from autonomous robotic systems designed to improve farm labor efficiency to advanced indoor growing operations.
“Pennsylvania has always been a place where agriculture and innovation grow together. GreenTech brings the world to Pennsylvania and gives us the opportunity to showcase the innovation happening on our farms, in our greenhouses, and at our universities," said Russell Redding.
"Through our partnership with the Netherlands and investments in research, technology, and our farmers, we are building the tools and relationships that will keep Pennsylvania agriculture leading into the future,” Redding added.
The conference comes as Pennsylvania and the Netherlands continue to strengthen economic and agricultural ties. In April, Governor Josh Shapiro hosted King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima in Philadelphia, highlighting the longstanding relationship between Pennsylvania and the Netherlands.
The two governments also signed a Letter of Understanding covering cooperation in agriculture, advanced manufacturing and robotics, life sciences, sports and academia. Trade between Pennsylvania and the Netherlands reached $3.7 billion in 2025.
Agriculture remains a major part of Pennsylvania’s economy, with more than 48,800 farms supporting approximately 600,000 jobs and generating $132.5 billion annually. The administration’s 10-year economic development strategy identifies agriculture as an important driver of future growth.
State initiatives include $30 million for Agricultural Innovation Grants, $2.2 million for agricultural research, creation of the Center for Plant Excellence with Penn State, and the Keystone AgTech Alliance.
Together, these efforts aim to connect farmers with practical technologies, strengthen sustainability, address workforce challenges, and support the long-term competitiveness of Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business