At Euroseeds Congress 2026 in Valencia, the conversations between sessions can be just as valuable as the official programme. From InnovAction Stage pitches to video interviews and informal meetings, Seed World Europe explores the people, ideas and relationships that make the Congress special.
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On the ground at Euroseeds 2026: A Note from the Editor
There is a moment at every Euroseeds Congress that I particularly enjoy. You turn a corner, spot a familiar face, and suddenly the next ten minutes of your schedule have disappeared. After many years in the seed sector, you might think I would be used to it. But the pleasure of catching up with people I have known for decades, and meeting people I have only known through emails, hasn’t worn off.
Of course, the programme in Valencia is packed. We will be talking about new genomic techniques, the reform of seed marketing legislation, markets, plant breeders’ rights and much more. All important topics, and I expect some lively discussions. But what I value most is that a conversation over coffee can be just as revealing as a presentation in a meeting room. Our sector runs on science, certainly, but it also runs on relationships, experience and trust.
I am especially curious about the InnovAction Stage. Ten finalists will be pitching ideas ranging from biological seed treatments and coatings to new approaches to improving crop establishment and stress tolerance. I have no idea which ones will become commercial successes, and neither does anyone else. That is what makes it interesting. We need established companies that can invest for the long term, but we also need newcomers prepared to question how things have always been done.
I will be doing quite a bit of listening myself. During the Congress, I have 11 short video interviews planned, with people who bring different perspectives on breeding, policy, markets and the future of seeds. Some of my best questions come from hearing an answer I did not expect. We will share those conversations through Seed World Europe so you can hear from them too.
And if you have a story of your own, please come and tell us. You will find us at the Seed World Group Leadership Lounge on the ground floor, next to the Auditorium entrance. Whether you have news to share, an idea to explore or simply fancy a chat, our door is open. After all, that is what Euroseeds is for.
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