Top 50 Vertical Farming Companies Shaping the Future of Sustainable Farming

Introduction

The global agricultural sector is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by the growing demand for sustainable, efficient, and locally-produced food. As urbanization accelerates and environmental concerns mount, traditional farming faces increasing pressure to feed a growing population with limited resources. In response, innovative approaches like vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) have emerged, offering promising solutions to revolutionize food production.

Vertical farming, which involves growing crops in stacked layers or vertically inclined surfaces, and CEA systems, which create optimal growing conditions in greenhouses or other controlled spaces, enable year-round production with significantly reduced resource consumption. These approaches rely on advanced technologies such as hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics to conserve water, minimize land use, and reduce pesticide reliance. By integrating AI, automation, and data analytics, these systems are achieving unprecedented levels of efficiency, making them key players in addressing global food challenges.

The growing interest in vertical farming and CEA has spurred the rise of startups and SMEs dedicated to innovating and scaling these green solutions. This blog post highlights 50 startups and SMEs that are leading the charge in these fields, transforming how we grow food while contributing to the creation of a more resilient and sustainable food system.

The Importance of Vertical Farming and Controlled Environment Agriculture

Vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) present numerous benefits that contribute to a more sustainable and efficient food production system:

• Space Efficiency: Both vertical farms and CEA systems maximize land use, making them ideal for urban settings and regions with limited arable land.
• Water Conservation: Advanced farming technologies like hydroponics in vertical farming and closed-loop irrigation in CEA use up to 90% less water than traditional farming, addressing global water scarcity challenges.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: By enabling local food production and minimizing transportation requirements, these approaches significantly lower carbon emissions.
• Year-Round Production: Controlled environments in vertical farming and CEA allow for consistent crop cultivation, independent of seasonal changes or weather conditions.
• Enhanced Resource Efficiency: From energy-efficient lighting to optimized nutrient delivery systems, these innovations minimize inputs while maximizing output.

As these sectors expand, the integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI for environmental monitoring, automation for labor efficiency, and data-driven insights for crop optimization is driving transformative change. Together, vertical farming and CEA are poised to disrupt traditional agricultural supply chains and contribute to a more sustainable and reliable global food system.

Criteria for Leading Companies in Vertical Farming and CEA

The most successful companies in vertical farming and CEA excel in several key areas:

1. Innovative Technologies: The integration of state-of-the-art solutions, such as AI-driven environmental controls, advanced irrigation systems, and precision agriculture tools, defines leading companies.
2. Sustainability Commitment: Eco-friendly practices, including water conservation, renewable energy integration, and zero-waste initiatives, are critical to their operations.
3. Scalability and Adaptability: Successful companies design modular solutions that can expand from small urban setups to large-scale commercial operations, addressing diverse agricultural needs.
4. Collaboration and Community Impact: Many pioneers partner with local communities, academic institutions, and corporations to enhance their impact and contribute to global food security.
5. Efficiency in Resource Use: Optimization of resources, from energy and water to physical space, sets apart the best-performing vertical farming and CEA companies.

By pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability, these companies are redefining how food is produced, distributed, and consumed in a rapidly evolving world.

50 Top Vertical Farming and Controlled Environment Agriculture Startups and SMEs in 2024

These 50 startups and SMEs are leading the charge in vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture (CEA). From small-scale urban farms to expansive, high-tech agricultural operations, these companies are revolutionizing food production through innovation, sustainability, and efficiency.

While this list is not ranked, it highlights the diversity of players in the field, each making significant contributions toward building a more sustainable, resilient, and food-secure future.

1. AeroFarms

AeroFarms revolutionizes agriculture with advanced aeroponic systems that use 95% less water and 99% less land than traditional methods. Their fully automated systems grow pesticide-free leafy greens year-round, providing superior flavor and nutrition. This innovation not only enhances efficiency but also supports environmental sustainability, reducing resource consumption significantly.

AeroFarms goes beyond just farming. Their produce, available at major retailers like Whole Foods and Walmart, promotes local food systems while minimizing food miles. Scalable and eco-friendly, AeroFarms is shaping the future of sustainable agriculture with precision technology and global partnerships.

• Founder(s): David Rosenberg, Marc Oshima, Ed Harwood
• Founding Year: 2004
• Headquarter: Newark, New Jersey

2. Zero Carbon Farms

Zero Carbon Farms repurposes underground air raid shelters in London into climate-controlled vertical farms. Their innovative system grows microgreens and herbs using 70-90% less water and 95% less fertilizer than traditional agriculture. By operating underground, they significantly reduce emissions while supplying fresh produce locally.

The company serves major UK retailers like Tesco and Waitrose, offering fresher, more sustainable options to consumers. With renewable energy powering their operations, Zero Carbon Farms sets a benchmark for carbon-neutral agriculture and efficient use of urban spaces.

• Founder(s): Richard Ballard
• Founding Year: 2015
• Headquarter: London, United Kingdom

3. Freight Farms

Freight Farms brings food production to urban areas with modular, climate-controlled container farms. Their flagship product, The Greenery, uses hydroponic systems, LED lighting, and precise climate control to grow fresh produce year-round in just 320 square feet. These farms operate efficiently, requiring minimal resources and offering food security anywhere.

The company’s scalable solutions empower small businesses, schools, and communities to grow food locally. With robust automation via their Farmhand software, Freight Farms promotes sustainability and decentralized food systems globally.

• Founder(s): Brad McNamara, Jon Friedman
• Founding Year: 2010
• Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts

4. Greener Crop

Greener Crop specializes in indoor vertical farming solutions that optimize resource efficiency and yield. Their farms use IoT sensors and automated controls to maintain ideal conditions for crops, ensuring minimal water and nutrient waste. The setup is especially suited for urban environments, achieving high productivity in limited spaces.

In addition to farm management, Greener Crop provides consulting and custom farm designs, supporting sustainable agriculture worldwide. Their focus on data-driven practices makes them a vital player in transforming urban food systems.

• Founder(s): Alexander Kappes
• Founding Year: Unknown
• Headquarter: Newark, Delaware

5. Innovation Agritech Group (IAG)

IAG transforms agriculture with its patented aeroponic technology, GrowFrame™ 360, enabling up to 15 harvest cycles per year with 98% less water usage compared to traditional farming. Their modular system supports scalability and real-time monitoring through advanced automation, offering tailored vertical farming solutions for diverse needs. This technology eliminates climate dependencies, ensuring year-round production anywhere in the world.

IAG focuses on sustainable agriculture and global food security. Beyond commercial farming, they collaborate with charities to address hunger by deploying water-efficient systems in arid regions. IAG’s commitment to R&D has earned recognition as a leader in precision farming, combining innovation and impact.

• Founder(s): Jaz Singh
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: London, United Kingdom

6. Little Leaf Farms

Little Leaf Farms leads the way in sustainable lettuce production with advanced hydroponic greenhouses. Their facilities use 90% less water than traditional field farming by capturing rainwater and employing energy-efficient systems. This allows them to grow pesticide-free, fresh leafy greens year-round, delivering to stores within 24 hours to ensure superior flavor and quality.

Beyond sustainability, Little Leaf Farms reduces food miles by growing locally, minimizing the need for long-distance transportation. Their innovative practices have made them a leader in packaged lettuce across New England, setting benchmarks for efficient, eco-friendly food systems.

• Founder(s): Paul Sellew
• Founding Year: 2015
• Headquarter: Devens, Massachusetts

7. Just Vertical

Just Vertical combines hydroponic technology and modern design to create compact, user-friendly indoor gardens. Their systems, like the AEVA and EVE models, allow urban dwellers to grow fresh greens and herbs at home using 95% less water than traditional gardening. Designed as functional furniture, these units integrate seamlessly into homes while enabling sustainable food production year-round.

By extending their expertise to commercial solutions, Just Vertical supports food security in challenging environments, including northern communities and educational institutions. Their innovative approach transforms urban spaces into sustainable food-growing hubs, promoting local and accessible produce.

• Founder(s): Conner Tidd, Kevin Jakiela
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

8. Lufa Farms

Lufa Farms is pioneering urban farming with its rooftop greenhouses, which provide Montreal with fresh, local produce year-round. The company operates the world’s largest commercial rooftop greenhouse, spanning 163,800 square feet. Through hydroponic systems, Lufa grows a variety of vegetables, including lettuce, cucumbers, and herbs, while conserving water and minimizing the need for pesticides. Their closed-loop irrigation system captures rainwater and recycles water from the farming process, saving up to 90% compared to traditional farming methods.

By growing food on rooftops, Lufa Farms eliminates the need for new land and helps reduce transportation emissions, delivering fresh produce to local communities. Their online marketplace allows customers to order customizable food baskets, including items from local partners, and have them delivered directly to their door or available for pickup at locations across Montreal. With a focus on sustainability, Lufa Farms is expanding its impact and reshaping urban agriculture.

• Founder(s): Mohamed Hage
• Founding Year: 2009
• Headquarter: Montreal, Quebec

9. Gardin

 

Gardin is transforming vertical farming with its advanced optical sensors and machine learning systems designed to optimize crop production. By utilizing non-contact, real-time monitoring technology, Gardin’s platform enables growers to measure plant health, monitor photosynthetic performance, and proactively adjust environmental parameters. This leads to more efficient resource use, improved crop yields, and higher-quality produce. Their system provides growers with insights that help optimize irrigation, fertilization, and lighting, ensuring consistent plant health and maximizing profitability.

As a leader in precision agriculture, Gardin supports a wide range of crops, from leafy greens to fruits, by offering deep data insights that enhance decision-making. Their platform is adaptable, integrating with existing farm automation systems to enable real-time adjustments. Gardin’s technology not only helps increase yields and reduce waste but also promotes sustainability by minimizing chemical usage and promoting eco-friendly farming practices.

• Founder(s): Sumanta Talukdar
• Founding Year: Unknown
• Headquarter: United Kingdom

10. Elevate Farms

Elevate Farms is a cutting-edge vertical farming company based in Toronto, Canada, focused on growing high-quality, nutritious leafy greens at scale. By utilizing a proprietary automation system, hydroponics, and advanced photobiology technology, Elevate Farms is able to grow produce with up to 73% higher productivity than traditional farming methods, while using 80% less labor. Their farms operate in controlled environments, which optimize light, water, and air circulation for maximum yield, resulting in healthier, tastier, and more sustainable crops.

The company’s modular farming systems are designed for rapid scalability, allowing them to build farms worldwide. With facilities already operating in Canada, the US, and New Zealand, Elevate Farms is positioned for global expansion, offering a resilient and consistent food supply. Their goal is to produce over 1 million pounds of leafy greens annually per facility, making vertical farming a viable solution to address global food security and sustainability challenges.

• Founder(s): Amin Jadavji, Per Aage Lysaa
• Founding Year: 2020
• Headquarter: Toronto, Ontario

11. Stacked Farm

Stacked Farm is revolutionizing agriculture in Australia with its fully automated, robotic vertical farm in Burleigh Waters, Queensland. Their 6,588 square meter facility uses cutting-edge technology to grow high-quality, pesticide-free leafy greens and herbs year-round. The farm operates with minimal human intervention, employing robotics and AI to optimize growing conditions and maximize yield. Stacked Farm’s system allows for rapid crop turnover, with plants grown in just 16 to 31 days, significantly reducing energy consumption and labor costs compared to traditional farms.

The company’s patented automation system ensures optimal efficiency from seed to bag, producing 450 tonnes of fresh produce annually with only six employees for operation. With plans to expand into Melbourne and other locations, Stacked Farm is set to scale its operations, aiming to produce over 3,200 tonnes per year per facility. Their produce boasts a longer shelf life (up to 18 days) and superior nutritional value, meeting the growing demand for fresh, sustainable food across Australia and beyond.

• Founder(s): Daniel Tzvetkoff
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: Burleigh Waters, Queensland

12. Smallhold 

Smallhold is a Brooklyn-based vertical farming startup specializing in gourmet mushrooms, aiming to revolutionize the way food is grown and distributed. Unlike traditional farms that centralize production, Smallhold uses a network of distributed “minifarms” placed in grocery stores, restaurants, and other locations to grow mushrooms on-site. This decentralized farming model not only ensures fresher produce but also reduces the need for long-distance transportation, significantly lowering environmental impact. By producing mushrooms directly where they’re sold, Smallhold cuts down on packaging waste and maximizes the nutritional value of its products, which are often harvested just hours before reaching consumers.

Their innovative approach extends to their technology as well—Smallhold uses AI and controlled environments to optimize production, ensuring high-quality and consistent yields. The company’s mushrooms, including varieties like oyster, lion’s mane, and maitake, are grown without pesticides or herbicides. Their system offers unique benefits, such as the ability to provide locally grown mushrooms year-round, in contrast to the traditional, centralized farming system that relies on shipments from a single region like Pennsylvania. This model has already gained traction with major retailers like Whole Foods and restaurants like Eleven Madison Park.

• Founder(s): Andrew Carter
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: Brooklyn, New York

13. FarmAnywhere

FarmAnywhere is an innovative agtech company based in Vancouver, Canada, that specializes in modular, containerized farming systems designed for both urban and rural settings. Their cutting-edge technology allows for rapid farm deployment within 3-6 weeks, offering a highly scalable and customizable solution for growing crops like microgreens, herbs, mushrooms, and even strawberries. Utilizing hydroponic and aquaponic methods, these mobile farms are engineered for ease of use, with plug-and-play features and simple maintenance, empowering users to manage farms remotely.

The company’s focus on affordability and efficient production systems has allowed it to cater to a wide range of customers, from city-center installations to remote locations. FarmAnywhere’s approach is aimed at transforming local food production by making it easier for anyone to grow fresh produce, regardless of geographic constraints. In addition to providing farm setups, the company offers training and support to ensure that users can successfully operate and scale their farm systems.

• Founder(s): Gabriel Zarafonitis
• Founding Year: 2016
• Headquarters: Vancouver, British Columbia

14. Hy-Farm Microgreens

Hy-Farm Microgreens is a leading company in the field of hydroponic microgreen production, based in Columbia, Missouri. The company specializes in providing automated hydroponic systems that enable businesses to grow high-quality microgreens efficiently. Founded in 2018, Hy-Farm is committed to promoting sustainable agriculture by offering solutions that support both novice and seasoned growers. Their systems are designed for scalability, allowing users to produce microgreens that meet the rising demand from restaurants and consumers seeking nutritious, high-value crops.

Hy-Farm’s microgreens are sold in over 2,000 restaurants, and their automated system and training packages are part of a franchise model aimed at fostering local producers worldwide. With a focus on nutrition, taste, and sustainable production, the company is making significant strides in the global microgreens market.

• Founder(s): Alex C. Vasiu
• Founding Year: 2018
• Headquarter: Columbia, Missouri

15. Vertical Roots

Vertical Roots is a pioneering indoor farming company based in Charleston, South Carolina, that specializes in growing non-GMO, pesticide-free lettuce using innovative controlled environment agriculture (CEA) methods. The company employs vertical farming in hydroponic container systems, producing high-quality leafy greens with minimal water usage and without relying on soil. Their farming technology reduces environmental impact and increases yield, making them a sustainable solution for year-round, local food production. Vertical Roots’ products are distributed to over 1,850 grocery stores and food outlets across 13 states, including schools and restaurants.

Founded in 2016, the company operates in multiple locations including Charleston, Columbia, and Atlanta, with plans to expand further. Their farming operations are powered by AmplifiedAg, a technology company that has helped scale Vertical Roots’ modular farming systems and farm management software. This technology enables Vertical Roots to deliver fresh produce close to consumers, minimizing transportation costs and reducing food waste. The company’s mission is to revolutionize local food production and consumption by providing healthier, tastier, and more sustainable greens.

• Founder(s): Andrew Hare, Matt Daniels
• Founding Year: 2016
• Headquarter: Charleston, South Carolina​

16. Harvest Today

Harvest Today is a forward-thinking agricultural technology company based in Broomfield, Colorado, that specializes in creating accessible, water-efficient indoor farming solutions. Their primary product, the Harvest Wall, is a vertical farming system designed to allow communities to grow fresh food locally. The system is highly modular, offering scalability for both personal and commercial applications, and uses up to 97% less water compared to traditional farming. 

By providing a user-friendly and efficient growing method, Harvest Today aims to improve food security, especially in urban and underserved areas. Their technology makes it possible to grow food anywhere, from homes to community spaces, contributing to sustainable, local food production.

• Founder(s): Rick Langille
• Founding Year: 2020
• Headquarters: Broomfield, Colorado​

17. Jones Food Company

Jones Food Company is a pioneering vertical farming business based in Scunthorpe, United Kingdom. Founded in 2017 by James Lloyd-Jones, the company focuses on sustainable farming techniques using vertical farming technology to grow fresh produce like herbs, salad leaves, and more, all within a controlled, indoor environment. With a commitment to reducing water use by 95% and eliminating pesticides, Jones Food Company aims to revolutionize the UK’s food supply chain while addressing global agricultural sustainability challenges.

Their existing facility in Lincolnshire is Europe’s largest vertical farm, and they are building the world’s largest vertical farm in Gloucestershire. This new facility will span 148,000 square feet and significantly increase production capacity, with a goal to supply over 1,000 tonnes of fresh produce annually to supermarkets across the UK. Their focus on renewable energy and reducing food miles also aligns with their environmental goals. In addition to securing funding from Ocado in 2019, Jones Food Company continues to expand its operations, becoming a key player in the global vertical farming industry​​.

• Founder(s): James Lloyd-Jones
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: Scunthorpe, United Kingdom

18. UP Vertical Farms

UP Vertical Farms is a forward-thinking indoor farming operation based in Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, dedicated to revolutionizing agriculture through fully automated, high-density vertical farming. By utilizing a hands-free, automated system, the company produces fresh, nutritious greens with a remarkable efficiency—yielding up to 350 times the amount of greens compared to traditional field farming. Their advanced system uses 99% less land, water, and fertilizers, while avoiding pesticides and herbicides entirely. The facility also recycles carbon dioxide to promote environmental sustainability.

The company grows a range of leafy greens such as butter lettuce and romaine in a controlled, optimal environment for flavor and freshness. With a commitment to sustainability, UP Vertical Farms aims to lead in food security by providing year-round, locally-grown produce.

• Founder(s): Bahram Rashti, Shahram Rashti
• Founding Year: 2018
• Headquarter: Pitt Meadows, British Columbia​

19. Baloian Farms

Baloian Farms is a fourth-generation, vertically integrated farming operation based in Fresno, California. With over a century of experience, the company specializes in producing a variety of high-quality vegetables, including bell peppers, eggplants, squash, and leafy greens like romaine and cauliflower. The company is known for its year-round production strategy, which includes seasonal programs to ensure a steady supply even during the holidays, serving as a key supplier to the fresh produce market. 

Baloian Farms incorporates innovative farming practices and close collaborations with regional partners across California and Mexico to maintain consistent product quality. Sustainability is also a core focus, with initiatives including water conservation, recycling, and solar energy use. The farm’s impressive operational resilience and dedication to innovation earned it the prestigious Agribusiness of the Year award in 2021.

• Founder(s): Charles Baloian
• Founding Year: 1917
• Headquarter: Fresno, California​

20. General Hydroponics

General Hydroponics, founded in 1976 and headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, is a leader in the development of hydroponic systems and solutions for the agriculture industry. Known for producing advanced systems that promote sustainable farming, the company specializes in nutrient solutions, pH control products, and hydroponic growing systems. General Hydroponics serves both large-scale commercial growers and home gardening enthusiasts, aiming to optimize plant growth with efficient water and nutrient management. The company was acquired by Hawthorne Gardening Company in 2015, and its products are recognized for their high quality and effectiveness in various hydroponic setups.

• Founder(s): Lawrence Brooke
• Founding Year: 1976
• Headquarter: Vancouver, Washington​

21. Willo

Willo is revolutionizing food production by offering a personalized vertical farming service that connects customers directly to their own plot in a local farm. By utilizing cutting-edge AI and automation technologies, Willo delivers fresh, high-quality, customizable produce to consumers, all grown without pesticides or contaminants. Their subscription service is designed for residents within a 20-mile radius of Santa Clara, with plans for rapid expansion across major cities in the U.S. and globally. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also aims to combat diet-related diseases through personalized, plant-based nutrition.

• Founder(s): Samuel Bertram, John Bertram
• Founding Year: 2020
• Headquarters: San Jose, California​

22. Placeholder

Placeholder is an innovative farming company based in Edgartown, Massachusetts, focused on transforming agriculture through advanced technology and sustainable farming solutions. Founded in 2015, the company specializes in vertical farming systems that incorporate proprietary hardware, water monitoring, and seed technologies. Their ultra-high-yield systems can be deployed in any industrial warehouse, optimizing space and resources to grow crops sustainably, without the use of herbicides, pesticides, or GMOs. Placeholder’s technologies enable the production of fresh, local produce with a fraction of the environmental impact of traditional farming.

With a strong commitment to sustainability, Placeholder’s methods reuse 100% of the water used in farming operations, while helping growers increase crop yields and reduce costs. Their mission is to revolutionize food production by providing efficient, clean, and environmentally friendly solutions for farms worldwide.

• Founder(s): Information unavailable
• Founding Year: 2015
• Headquarter: Edgartown, Massachusetts

23. Blackmore Company

Blackmore Company, based in Belleville, Michigan, is a pioneering leader in the development of agricultural technologies, especially seed sowing and plant production systems. Founded in 1965 by Fred Blackmore, the company revolutionized the horticulture industry with the creation of the first seed plug tray. Today, it remains at the forefront of innovation, offering solutions like the patented Air Tray®, which enhances root air pruning for healthier plant growth and greater transplant success. The company’s tray systems are widely used in forestry, nurseries, and specialty crops, combining sustainability with performance to reduce plant losses and optimize growth.

Blackmore Company is family-operated, focusing on customer-specific needs while producing over 30 million trays annually. Its advancements in root optimization and its collaboration with partners for long-life trays have cemented its role in promoting sustainable, efficient agriculture.

• Founder(s): Fred Blackmore
• Founding Year: 1965
• Headquarters: Belleville, Michigan

24. Ponix

Ponix is an Atlanta-based agricultural technology company focused on advancing urban farming solutions through hydroponics and modular vertical farming systems. Designed to address food security and sustainability, Ponix deploys containerized farms that produce fresh, pesticide-free fruits, vegetables, and herbs year-round. These farms operate in controlled environments using 95% less water than traditional agriculture and are powered by renewable energy sources like solar panels. Ponix’s mission is to bring agriculture closer to consumption points, reducing transportation costs, carbon emissions, and nutrient loss.

The company provides both produce and turnkey farming systems, offering scalable solutions to municipalities, grocery stores, and property developers aiming to combat food deserts and create sustainable urban food systems. Their modular farms are highly customizable, allowing for easy installation in diverse settings, from rooftops to warehouses, and can grow over 50 crop varieties. Ponix also invests in education, providing STEM-focused hydroponic curriculums and tools for schools.

• Founder(s): Not available
• Founding Year: 2023
• Headquarter: Atlanta, Georgia

25. PureAgro

PureAgro is a leading supplier of urban agriculture and hydroponics technologies, based in Los Angeles, California. The company specializes in providing advanced solutions to the growing urban agriculture and legal cannabis industries, focusing on sustainable farming methods like hydroponics. Through the consolidation of its retail and wholesale divisions, including Way to Grow (its Colorado-based retail operation) and Crop Supply (its wholesale arm), PureAgro has established itself as a one-stop solution for growers across Colorado and California. It operates a network of nine locations and warehouses across these states, offering an extensive range of products such as lighting, fertilizers, grow mediums, and environmental control systems​.

• Founder(s): Rick Byrd (Chairman & CEO)
• Founding Year: 2016
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California

26. Verdical, Inc.

Verdical, Inc. is a hydroponics company based in Berkeley, California, focused on creating compact, modular systems for indoor food production. Founded in 2016, the company provides innovative solutions for growing fresh herbs and vegetables year-round in urban environments, especially catering to foodservice businesses. Verdical’s systems allow for high-efficiency food production, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing flavor and diversity. Their technology helps users grow up to 150 pounds of food annually with minimal space and resources​.

• Founder(s): Ara Baghdassarian
• Founding Year: 2016
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California

27. Seasony

Seasony is an innovative company based in Denmark, specializing in mobile robotics for vertical farming. They focus on bringing advanced automation technologies into the indoor farming industry through their robot, Watney, designed to automate tasks like lifting and transporting plant trays, while simultaneously collecting detailed data on plant health. This data allows for precise environmental adjustments to optimize plant growth, increasing overall efficiency and productivity in vertical farming operations​.

Seasony’s key product, Watney, integrates advanced sensors, robotics, and algorithms to enhance operations, ensuring that each plant receives the exact nutrients, water, light, and CO2 it requires at various stages of growth. This cutting-edge technology aims to make vertical farming more scalable, sustainable, and profitable​.

• Founder(s): Christopher Weis Thomasen
• Founding Year: 2018
• Headquarters: Denmark

28. Bowery Farming

Bowery Farming transforms urban agriculture with its network of smart indoor vertical farms powered by BoweryOS, a proprietary operating system. By growing produce hydroponically in controlled environments, Bowery uses 95% less water than traditional farming and no pesticides, ensuring fresh, flavorful greens year-round. Their innovative model allows for 100x the output per square foot compared to field farming.

Bowery’s vertically integrated system shortens supply chains, delivering produce to local retailers within a day of harvest, reducing transportation emissions and waste. Their technology-driven approach exemplifies how precision farming can address global challenges like water scarcity and food security.

• Founder(s): Irving Fain
• Founding Year: 2015
• Headquarter: New York, New York

29. Eden Green Technology

Eden Green Technology combines hydroponic systems and vertical farming to produce fresh, pesticide-free greens with drastically reduced water and land usage. Their Crisply® cultivation method blends natural sunlight with vertical farming, achieving high-density production with lower energy consumption.

By maintaining a local focus, Eden Green ensures produce reaches store shelves within 48 hours of harvest, reducing supply chain costs and emissions. Their model supports food security and eco-friendly farming practices in urban and rural areas alike.

• Founder(s): Eddie Badrina
• Founding Year: 2013
• Headquarter: Cleburne, Texas

30. Plenty

Plenty combines data analytics, machine learning, and custom LED lighting to optimize plant growth in its indoor vertical farms. Using less than 1% of the land and 5% of the water needed for traditional agriculture, Plenty grows flavorful, pesticide-free produce year-round. Their innovative technology allows precise control over environmental factors, maximizing yields and ensuring consistent quality.

Focused on sustainability, Plenty’s farms operate on 100% renewable energy, and their local distribution model minimizes food miles. With farms in Compton, California, and upcoming expansions in Virginia, Plenty is reshaping agriculture to address climate challenges and food security.

• Founder(s): Matt Barnard, Nate Storey
• Founding Year: 2014
• Headquarter: South San Francisco, California

31. Infarm

Infarm leads the way in urban vertical farming with its innovative, cloud-connected farming systems that grow fresh produce in modular units placed directly in cities. These systems save up to 95% of water and land compared to traditional farming, providing sustainable, pesticide-free herbs, leafy greens, and more, with minimal environmental impact. Infarm’s smart farms are controlled through IoT and machine learning, ensuring optimal growing conditions for plants, producing high-quality produce year-round.

Infarm has scaled its operations across 11 countries, supplying produce to over 1,850 stores worldwide. With major retail partnerships like Whole Foods, Marks & Spencer, and Selfridges, the company reduces food miles by growing locally and minimizing transportation. Infarm continues to expand, aiming for 20 countries by 2030, bringing fresh, sustainable food to urban areas through cutting-edge technology.

• Founder(s): Erez Galonska, Guy Galonska, Osnat Michaeli
• Founding Year: 2013
• Headquarter: Berlin, Germany

32. CubicFarm Systems

CubicFarm Systems is an innovative agriculture technology company based in Langley, British Columbia, Canada, specializing in the development of automated, indoor farming systems. Their unique system leverages vertically stacked hydroponic modules, which maximize space efficiency while delivering fresh, high-quality crops year-round. By combining advanced automation, precision agriculture, and controlled environment farming, CubicFarm systems enable the production of leafy greens, herbs, and other crops with reduced water, land, and energy consumption.

The company’s proprietary farming systems are designed to operate in a variety of environments, from urban settings to rural locations, offering a flexible and scalable solution for local food production. With its emphasis on sustainability, CubicFarm is on track to reduce the environmental impact of traditional agriculture while providing a reliable and consistent food source for communities worldwide. The company is actively expanding its reach and forging partnerships to transform the way food is grown globally.

• Founder(s): Jack Benne and Leo Benne
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarters: Langley, British Columbia

33. Hydrofarm Holdings Group

Hydrofarm Holdings Group, based in Shoemakersville, Pennsylvania, is a leading provider of hydroponic equipment and supplies for controlled environment agriculture (CEA). Founded in 1977, Hydrofarm specializes in products used in indoor farming, including lighting, water management systems, hydroponic nutrients, and other plant care solutions. The company serves a diverse customer base ranging from hobbyist gardeners to large-scale commercial growers in sectors such as cannabis, flowers, and vegetables.

Hydrofarm operates several brands, including Active Aqua, Aurora Peat Products, and Roots Organics, offering a wide array of solutions designed to optimize plant growth. They cater to retailers, greenhouse builders, and online resellers, providing tools for both home and commercial growers.

• Founder(s):  Not publicly available
• Founding Year: 1977
• Headquarters: Shoemakersville, Pennsylvania, USA

34. Vertical Harvest 

Vertical Harvest is a leading innovator in the field of urban vertical farming, based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The company focuses on producing high-quality, locally grown food year-round using hydroponics and innovative growing systems. Vertical Harvest’s unique approach integrates food production with community impact, particularly by creating stable, meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities. The company operates a state-of-the-art, three-story farm, with plans for expansion into other U.S. cities such as Westbrook, Maine, and Detroit​.

By utilizing underutilized urban spaces, Vertical Harvest not only addresses food security but also plays a pivotal role in local economic development. Their mission includes a commitment to local food distribution, with 70% of their produce going to customers within a 150-mile radius. This focus on community, alongside their innovative approach to vertical farming, positions Vertical Harvest as a leader in the field of sustainable and socially responsible agriculture​.

• Founder(s): Nona Yehia
• Founding Year: 2016
• Headquarter: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

35. Village Farms International

Village Farms International is a vertically integrated agriculture company headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida, specializing in the cultivation of greenhouse-grown vegetables and high-value plant-based products. The company is one of North America’s leading suppliers of fresh produce, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, and utilizes controlled environment agriculture (CEA) to ensure year-round harvests. With over three decades of experience, Village Farms has become a prominent player in the agriculture sector, supplying fresh produce to major grocery and retail chains across the U.S. and Canada.

In addition to its produce business, Village Farms has expanded into the cannabis industry. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pure Sunfarms, the company is one of Canada’s largest and lowest-cost greenhouse cannabis producers. Village Farms also holds a significant stake in Rose LifeScience, a leading cannabis commercialization firm in Quebec, and operates Balanced Health Botanicals, a major player in the U.S. CBD market. With ongoing expansion efforts, the company is targeting new growth opportunities internationally, particularly in the cannabis markets of Asia-Pacific and Europe​.

• Founder(s): Michael DeGiglio
• Founding Year: 1989
• Headquarters: Lake Mary, Florida, USA

36. Elite Agro

Elite Agro is a leading agricultural company based in the UAE, focused on producing and distributing fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables. Established in 2010, the company operates with a primary mission to enhance the UAE’s food security and sustainability efforts. Elite Agro is renowned for its eco-friendly and modern farming techniques, including the use of automated systems, adaptive irrigation, and integrated pest management to maximize productivity while minimizing resource consumption.

In addition to farming, Elite Agro is involved in agri-tech investments and has been expanding its focus on farm-to-table concepts. The company operates in several countries, including the UAE, Morocco, and Serbia, and is dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture and increasing the domestic production of food. Their operations align with the UAE’s sustainability goals, and they are expected to play a crucial part in the country’s future agricultural development​.

• Founder(s): Not available 
• Founding Year: 2010
• Headquarters: Abu Dhabi, UAE

37. OnePointOne

OnePointOne is a pioneering vertical farming company based in Avondale, Arizona, with a focus on transforming agricultural practices through cutting-edge technology. Founded in 2017 by brothers Samuel and John Bertram, the company combines aeroponic and hydroponic systems to produce high-quality, pesticide-free crops with dramatically reduced environmental impact. Their patented platform, Opollo™, integrates AI, automation, and advanced plant science to optimize plant growth, maximize yield, and reduce resource consumption, such as water and energy​.

The company’s mission is ambitious, aiming to combat global hunger and malnutrition by providing scalable solutions for local food production. As of now, OnePointOne is focused on empowering farming entrepreneurs, sustainable real estate developers, and other businesses in need of vertical farming solutions​.

• Founder(s): Sam Bertram & John Bertram
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: Avondale, Arizona

38. Oishii

Oishii is a leading vertical farming company based in the United States, specializing in premium produce like strawberries and tomatoes. Founded in 2017, Oishii combines cutting-edge automation with sustainability practices to grow high-quality crops in fully controlled indoor environments. The company is known for its flagship Koyo Berry, a strawberry variety that stands out for its exceptional taste, and has recently expanded its portfolio to include other high-value crops like the Rubī Tomato.

The company has positioned itself to stand apart from other vertical farming operations by focusing on premium, high-demand products that require specialized growing conditions, including the use of bees for pollination. This approach, along with its commitment to sustainable energy practices, has helped Oishii thrive even in a challenging investment climate for vertical farming.

• Founder(s): Hiroki Koga
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: New York, NY

39. LettUs Grow

LettUs Grow is an innovative agri-tech company based in Bristol, UK, specializing in aeroponic farming technology for commercial vertical farms and greenhouses. Founded in 2015 by Charlie Guy, Jack Farmer, and Ben Crowther, the company aims to address environmental challenges and food security by developing sustainable farming solutions. LettUs Grow’s aeroponic systems enable faster plant growth using less water, fertilizer, and no pesticides, making them a promising solution to the pressures on traditional agriculture.

The company’s flagship product, DROP & GROW, is a scalable container farm that combines aeroponic technology with smart control software, offering a “farming business in a box.” LettUs Grow has deployed these systems across multiple locations in the UK, supporting local food production with reduced carbon footprints. Their technology is designed to increase crop yields while maintaining sustainability, enabling businesses to grow high-quality food efficiently and locally.

LettUs Grow is deeply committed to sustainability and ethics, aiming to reduce food waste, mitigate climate change, and foster a positive impact on both the environment and society. The company became B Corp certified in 2022, demonstrating their commitment to balancing profit with people and planet.

• Founder(s): Charlie Guy, Jack Farmer, Ben Crowther
• Founding Year: 2015
• Headquarter: Bristol, UK

40. Beanstalk Farms

Beanstalk Farms is an innovative indoor vertical farming company founded by brothers Mike and Jack Ross. Based in Northern Virginia, the company transforms abandoned data centers into productive urban farms. Beanstalk Farms uses a high-density, automated growing system, including its patented “growing tower” that operates vertically and horizontally. This system allows for the efficient production of fresh, nutritious produce, such as leafy greens, within a highly controlled indoor environment. With the ability to grow over 100 acres of crops on just half an acre of land, Beanstalk’s approach is both space-efficient and water-efficient, using 90% less water compared to traditional farming methods​

The farm operates on a fully closed-loop system, eliminating waste and ensuring sustainability. Their produce, grown without pesticides or chemicals, is delivered within 24 hours of harvest, maintaining freshness and reducing food miles​.

• Founder(s): Mike and Jack Ross
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: Herndon, Virginia

41. Indoor Harvest

Indoor Harvest is a pioneering company based in Austin, Texas, specializing in advanced agricultural technologies for controlled environment farming. Founded in 2012 by Chad Sykes, the company focuses on the development and commercialization of aeroponic cultivation systems for the production of high-quality cannabis, as well as other crops. Indoor Harvest is particularly known for its modular aeroponics system, which allows for highly efficient, scalable, and sustainable growing in vertical farms.

The company designs and installs custom agricultural infrastructures, providing everything from cultivation systems to farm racking systems, making it a valuable partner for businesses in the cannabis industry. Indoor Harvest’s technology is aimed at improving crop yields and reducing resource consumption, particularly water, while maintaining a high level of chemical consistency and purity. Their systems are designed to scale economically, making them an ideal solution for both small and large-scale indoor farms​

• Founder(s): Chad Sykes
• Founding Year: 2012
• Headquarter: Austin, Texas

42. Zero Farms

Zero Farms is an innovative technology-driven company based in Pordenone, Italy, specializing in vertical farming solutions. Founded in 2018, the company aims to revolutionize the agricultural sector by addressing the financial and scalability challenges traditionally faced by vertical farming. Their proprietary system, ZERO Modular Architecture, integrates both hardware and software to create highly productive, cost-effective farms. This technology allows for rapid scalability, superior productivity per square meter, and a reduction in farming costs.

Zero Farms focuses on operating their own vertical farms globally, rather than simply selling their technology. Their business model involves partnering with local entities to handle market development and communication, while Zero Farms takes control of farm operations. Their first successful project was based in Brescia, Italy, where they proved that leafy greens could be produced at the same price point as organic produce. The company is now expanding internationally, with partnerships in the Middle East and plans for further growth in the US market​.

• Founder(s): Andrea Alessio and Massimo Portincaso
• Founding Year: 2018
• Headquarter: Pordenone, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

43. Emerge 

Emerge is a company that specializes in sustainable farming practices, utilizing innovative aquaponics and aeroponic technologies to create efficient, local food systems. They focus on delivering fresh, nutritious produce through water-efficient methods, using up to 90% less water than traditional farming. Their aquaponics systems, which combine fish and plant cultivation, allow them to produce leafy greens and protein-rich fish in harmony. They also engage with local communities to provide fresh food, including donations to organizations addressing food insecurity​

The company is involved in training and consulting for aquaponics farming, with a broader mission to reduce poverty by helping communities establish local food systems globally. They operate in Colorado Springs, where they grow, sell, and teach aquaponic farming​

• Founder(s): Not specifically listed
• Founding Year: 2010
• Headquarter: Colorado Springs, Colorado

44. City Hydro

City Hydro is a Baltimore-based company that utilizes vertical farming techniques to grow microgreens and other crops in urban environments. Founded in 2011, the company operates its first vertical farm within a small, 10’x15′ room of a typical row home in Fells Point. This vertical farm uses LED lighting, innovative hydroponic systems, and climate-controlled environments to produce up to 12,000 pounds of microgreens annually. Their farming method emphasizes sustainability, using no fertilizers, pesticides, or soil, and employs a unique growing system where microgreens are sold living, allowing clients to harvest them fresh, which minimizes waste and preserves nutritional value​

City Hydro’s approach to urban farming is an excellent example of how vertical farming can optimize space and resources. With minimal electricity and water usage, their system showcases how high-yield crops can be grown in small spaces with minimal environmental impact. The company is also focused on educating others about sustainable farming practices and offers training programs for aspiring growers​

• Founder(s): Larry Hountz
• Founding Year: 2011
• Headquarter: Baltimore, Maryland

45. Kalera

Kalera is a prominent vertical farming company headquartered in Orlando, Florida, specializing in the production of fresh, flavorful, and nutrient-rich leafy greens. Leveraging advanced automation, data acquisition systems, and AI-driven technologies, Kalera optimizes plant nutrition and environmental conditions to deliver high-quality produce with minimal resource use. The company utilizes vertical farming to achieve significant sustainability benefits, including 97% less water usage and a reduced carbon footprint by growing food locally.

With its scalable indoor farming facilities, Kalera operates farms in multiple U.S. cities, including Orlando, Atlanta, and Houston, as well as internationally in Kuwait. The company’s mission is to address global challenges like food security and climate change by providing consistent, pesticide-free, and environmentally friendly produce. Kalera continues to expand its network of vertical farms, aiming to make fresh greens accessible to more communities globally.

• Founder(s): Dr. Cristian Toma
• Founding Year: 2010
• Headquarter: Orlando, Florida

46. Square Roots Urban Farming

Square Roots Urban Farming is an innovative urban agriculture company based in Penang, Malaysia. The company specializes in indoor vertical farming to produce clean, green, and pesticide-free vegetables. Square Roots adopts modular farming systems to ensure scalability, enabling clients to expand their farm operations effectively. This approach supports rapid deployment and operational flexibility, making it easier to optimize return on investment. Their techniques prioritize sustainable practices, leveraging advanced technologies to ensure high yields and consistent produce quality.

With expertise in the design, construction, and management of urban farms, Square Roots collaborates with system integration partners to deliver customized farming solutions for commercial-scale indoor setups. The company’s mission is rooted in providing safe and nutritious food while promoting sustainable urban farming practices.

• Founder(s): Jennifer Sow
• Founding Year: 2016
• Headquarters: Penang, Malaysia

47. Uns Vertical Farms

Uns Vertical Farms, based in Dubai, UAE, is a producer of high-quality microgreens using advanced hydroponic farming techniques. They specialize in crops like kale, mustard greens, baby lettuce, and various mixes, marketing their products under the “Uns” brand. The farm uses innovative vertical farming and hydroponics to ensure efficient production in the challenging climate of the Middle East, especially given the extreme temperatures reaching up to 50°C. This method allows them to grow fresh, flavorful produce year-round, meeting the demand from hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and hospitals across the region.

The company focuses on delivering quality over quantity, selecting crops for their taste, aroma, and texture, not just yield. Their primary goal is to offer customers fresh salads that stand out for their culinary appeal, rather than simply maximizing production.

• Founder(s): Moiz Tayebali Lokhandwala
• Founding Year: 2018
• Headquarter: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

48. Precede 

Precede is a Singapore-based company pioneering in indoor vertical farming to address food security and sustainability challenges. By employing advanced farming techniques, they produce high-quality crops with enhanced nutritional value and taste. Precede’s indoor vertical farms use innovative, sustainable practices that require 97% less water compared to traditional agriculture, while also significantly reducing land use and eliminating the need for pesticides​

Founded in 2016, Precede aims to bring food production closer to urban centers, ensuring a more reliable and consistent supply of fresh produce, which is essential for modern society. The company’s vertical farming approach allows for year-round cultivation, unaffected by weather conditions, making it an essential part of the future of urban food systems.

• Founder(s): Vivek Jadhav
• Founding Year: 2021
• Headquarter: Singapore

49. GreenState AG

GreenState AG is a Swiss-based company focused on revolutionizing vertical farming through modular, high-tech solutions powered by artificial intelligence (AI). The company integrates cutting-edge technology to optimize vertical farming practices, using AI to develop “digital recipes” for various crops that maximize output and growing conditions. This cloud-based, decentralized system allows for 24/7 farm management from anywhere in the world. 

GreenState AG’s flagship farm in Neuhausen am Rheinfall produces 2.5 tons of herbs and microgreens monthly and operates with a focus on sustainability, including plans to develop a solar-powered farm in the UAE with zero CO2 emissions and zero food waste​.

• Founder(s): Arsenije Grgur
• Founding Year: 2021
• Headquarter: Winterthur, Switzerland

50. AppHarvest

AppHarvest is a pioneering ag-tech company specializing in sustainable indoor farming using controlled environment agriculture (CEA) methods. Based in Morehead, Kentucky, AppHarvest aims to address food security and sustainability challenges by utilizing cutting-edge technology to grow high-quality, pesticide-free crops. Their facilities use vertical farming techniques to grow a variety of crops, including tomatoes, salad greens, strawberries, and cucumbers, with a focus on environmental responsibility and resource efficiency.

As part of its long-term vision, AppHarvest is working to build out additional facilities across the U.S., including farms in Berea, Somerset, and Richmond, aiming to quadruple its farm network and deliver fresh produce to national grocery chains and food service outlets. Their focus on innovation and scalability makes them a key player in the vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture sector.

• Founder(s): Not available
• Founding Year: 2017
• Headquarter: Morehead, Kentucky, USA

Vertical Farming: Cultivating a Sustainable Future with Innovation

At the forefront of the revolution in vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture (CEA), we are helping shape a more sustainable and resilient food system. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, these approaches are transforming how we grow food and utilize resources.

Our global network of innovators and experts is dedicated to supporting vertical farming and CEA companies in achieving key goals:

• Maximize Crop Yields: Leverage AI, automation, and precision technologies to optimize growth conditions, improve productivity, and ensure consistent quality.
• Minimize Resource Use: Implement eco-efficient farming technologies to significantly reduce water consumption, energy usage, and other critical inputs, enabling a more sustainable approach to agriculture.
• Enhance Food Security: Build local, climate-resilient farms capable of producing fresh, nutritious food year-round, independent of seasonal or environmental disruptions.

At Omdena, we are transforming vertical farming with AI solutions that optimize resources, maintain ideal growing conditions, and simplify farming. Explore how we make sustainable farming smarter and more efficient.

Learn more about our Vertical Farming Solutions and join us in shaping the future of farming!

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