On March 20, Quinta da Saúde in Beja hosted the Open Innovation Forum – Solutions and Challenges in Agricultural Digitalisation, an event organised by COTR (Irrigation Operational and Technology Centre) that brought together technology companies, farmers, technicians, and researchers.
The event aimed to foster knowledge exchange and bridge the gap between technological supply and the real needs of the agricultural sector, in a context shaped by climate change challenges and increasing pressure on water resources. Throughout the day, participants explored digital tools and innovative solutions designed to optimise water use, improve productivity, and support more sustainable farming practices.
© Photos by La Voz del Campo
As highlighted by Gonçalo Morais Tristão, President of COTR, “water management is currently one of the greatest challenges facing agriculture, and technology is an essential tool to produce more with greater efficiency and sustainability.” In this regard, the forum helped strengthen the connection between technology developers and end users, encouraging the adoption of digital solutions in the field.
In addition to technical sessions, the forum served as a networking platform and a showcase for emerging technologies, featuring leading organisations such as InovTechAgro, Hidromod, EDIA, FENAREG, HIDROSOPH, AQUAGRI, AGROOP, ICROP, and the Polytechnic University of Cartagena (UPCT), among others.
The event also received coverage from specialised agricultural media outlets such as Frutas y Legumbres and La Voz del Campo, enhancing its reach and visibility within the professional community.
Through this initiative, COTR reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, knowledge transfer, and the development of solutions that promote more efficient, digital, and sustainable agriculture.