Nouvelle-Aquitaine: A Center of Excellence for Agroecology
As France’s leading agricultural region, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is reinventing itself to become a leader in agroecology and innovation in agritech. With a strategy focused on sustainability and business support, it attracts actors from the agri-food industry, R&D, and technology to drive the ecological transition.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine: An Ecosystem of Excellence for Agroecology Stakeholders
Building on its Neo Terra roadmap, Nouvelle-Aquitaine reaffirms its ambition to position itself as an innovation hub for agroecology companies. Through increased support for agri-food industries, resource preservation consulting firms, analysis labs, sustainable agricultural machinery manufacturers, training organizations, and biotech R&D structures, the region aims to transform its industrial practices and accelerate the transition to more sustainable and virtuous practices.
A Strong Regional Commitment to Agroecological Transition
“Initiated by the region, the Neo Terra roadmap aims to support energy, ecological, and agricultural transitions, particularly through the development of agroecological solutions,” explains Swann Schlosser, Project Manager for Business Attraction and Establishment at ADI Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The BiosolutioNA cluster is a prime example of this commitment. Led by Agri Sud-Ouest Innovation, it brings together biocontrol and biosolution actors to limit chemical use. The cluster has fostered active collaboration between public research, agricultural technical centers, and companies, with the aim of reducing pesticide use while enhancing biodiversity and introducing agroecological alternatives. The region plans to double the share of biocontrol products on farms within five years.
Swann Schlosser, Project Manager for Business Attraction and Establishment-ADI Nouvelle-Aquitaine
A Dynamic and Diverse Ecosystem Serving Agroecology
With 4,500 agri-food companies and an annual turnover of €28 billion, Nouvelle-Aquitaine provides an ideal environment for industries committed to food quality, production, and packaging. Regional support is particularly evident through specialized competitiveness clusters:
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The Agrisudouest Innovation competitiveness cluster promotes innovation to accelerate transitions in agriculture, food, and bioeconomy sectors. As a key regional player, the cluster encourages and supports the emergence of innovative projects to meet essential agroecological goals for the sustainability of our agriculture.
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The Agricultural Machinery Cluster, focused on ecosystem-protective equipment, brings together manufacturers and researchers to design sustainable machinery that supports biodiversity and integrates renewable energy. This approach benefits industries developing tools like mapping drones or agricultural management software, essential for precision agriculture and soil preservation.
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The Innovin cluster brings together the region’s wine ecosystem players, helping them address industry challenges and fostering the development of innovative projects.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is also geared toward agri-food companies seeking to improve the environmental impact of their products. Activities in sustainable packaging, waste reduction, and processing are encouraged.
A Leading Region for Innovation and Resource Preservation
By joining Nouvelle-Aquitaine, agroecology professionals benefit from extensive expertise in resource management. Consulting firms specializing in resource optimization (water, soil, biodiversity) find strong support in regional initiatives. As a region under water stress, Nouvelle-Aquitaine has long implemented pioneering practices in sustainable resource management, inspiring companies to develop technologies adapted to climate challenges.
The region also offers dedicated business zones for agroecology actors, such as Agrolandes in the Landes, which serves as an incubator for projects focused on sustainable agricultural innovation, and Val Bio Ouest, dedicated to organic farming.
Innovating for Sustainable Agriculture: The Leitmotif of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region
Talents and Training for a Leading Industry
For industries requiring specific skills, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers targeted training. With recognized training centers such as Bordeaux Sciences Agro and Agrocampus 47, the region offers programs combining technological expertise with sustainable agriculture. “There is a strong local expertise, with training hubs covering professions related to agricultural technologies,” says Swann Schlosser. These training programs are essential for companies developing precision technologies, biotechnology, or improved seeds.
A Strategic Location and Tailored Support
Nouvelle-Aquitaine facilitates exchanges with Europe via its ports and airports, fast rail connections, and its cross-border position with Spain. Its geographical diversity—coastal, mountainous, and rural—are undeniable assets. The region offers modern infrastructure and logistical support that enhance its appeal to innovative companies. Financial incentives for ecological innovation, assistance with establishment, and a network of partners are part of the comprehensive support available to businesses.
In summary, a high-potential area for agroecology players with an expanding ecosystem, dynamic clusters, and a strong commitment to agroecological transition, Nouvelle-Aquitaine positions itself as a prime destination for agri-food and agritech companies. Swann Schlosser concludes: “Neo Terra and our agricultural assets provide a unique environment for companies looking to innovate in agroecology.”
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