The Euroseeds Congress will once again open its doors this October, from 25 to 28 October 2026, in the vibrant Mediterranean city of Valencia. Following the great success of last year’s edition in Edinburgh, which brought together more than 1,300 participants from across Europe and beyond, we are excited to welcome the Euroseeds community to a new and inspiring destination.
Eight years after the last Euroseeds Congress in Spain, Valencia offers a unique setting for our flagship event. Located in one of Europe’s most productive agricultural regions, the city provides the perfect backdrop where tradition and modern science come together to support the future of agriculture.
Why Valencia?
Valencia is more than just a beautiful Mediterranean destination. With its strong horticultural sector and dynamic research and innovation ecosystem, Valencia is an ideal place to explore the latest developments in plant breeding and seed technology.
As every year, the Euroseeds team is working intensively to deliver a high-quality programme featuring an inspiring mix of speakers, from policymakers and industry leaders to researchers, stakeholders, and entrepreneurs. Our goal remains the same: to create a space where ideas can flourish, partnerships can grow, and the future of plant breeding and seed innovation can be shaped together. Each edition builds on the previous one, introducing new elements to ensure the congress remains relevant, forward-looking, and truly memorable.
The congress will take place in a high-quality venue designed to host meetings, with large and equipped exhibition and trade areas, and networking activities. It offers a dynamic environment that fosters exchange, collaboration, and business development. Participants can expect engaging sessions with expert speakers addressing the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the sector today, from evolving policy and regulatory frameworks to international trade developments and sustainability ambitions.
What can you expect from three full days at the Euroseeds Congress?
We will kick off the event with a welcome evening, offering participants the opportunity to enjoy a taste of Spanish cuisine while reconnecting with colleagues, partners, and friends in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This informal gathering sets the tone for the days ahead and provides the perfect start to a week of meaningful exchanges.
Throughout the congress, participants will benefit from the latest policy and regulatory updates shaping the sector. Key topics will include:
- The new European framework on genomic techniques (NGTs) and its practical implications
- The revision of legislation on plant reproductive material, including variety registration and seed marketing
- Developments in the plant variety rights system, including discussions on farm-saved seed
- Insights into international trade dynamics, Horizon Europe research opportunities, and the potential impact of the future Common Agricultural Policy
Building on its enthusiastic reception in Edinburgh, the Euroseeds InnovAction Stage will return in 2026 to showcase breakthrough solutions from start-ups, SMEs, and public-private collaborations. This dedicated platform will highlight innovations in areas such as seed treatment, sustainable packaging, labelling, traceability, digital tools, and advanced production technologies.
A key highlight will once again be the InnovActor Award Ceremony, recognising the most impactful innovations of the year. Finalists will have the opportunity to present their solutions live during the congress, gaining visibility and direct access to key players in the European seed sector. The winner will receive a comprehensive recognition package, including free registration for the Euroseeds 2027 Congress, a featured interview with SeedWorld Europe, the title of “Euroseeds 2026 InnovActor,” and enhanced visibility across communication channels.
Innovators interested in participating are invited to submit their applications via the congress website by 30 April 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to pitch their innovations live in Valencia, an invaluable opportunity to gain industry-wide recognition and build strategic connections.
Beyond the formal programme, Euroseeds2026 will offer a rich networking and social agenda, ensuring a perfect balance between professional engagement and personal enjoyment. From informal gatherings to organised activities, participants will have numerous opportunities to connect, exchange ideas, and strengthen professional relationships in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
We are also pleased to bring back the NextGen Forum, which will take place between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning. This dedicated platform fosters dialogue between young academics, particularly Master’s students, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral researchers, and industry professionals.
The NextGen Forum aims to raise awareness among young researchers about the diverse career opportunities within the seed sector through direct interaction with senior representatives from seed companies, industry associations, and technical experts. At the same time, it provides valuable insights for industry leaders into how to better attract and engage young talent. By facilitating open dialogue and networking, the initiative helps strengthen the link between academia and industry.
As an added opportunity, the seed sector will offer three traineeship positions, giving selected participants hands-on experience within seed companies or sector organisations.
At Euroseeds2026, innovation is the driving force behind everything we do. From cutting-edge technologies to forward-thinking regulatory approaches, the congress serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue that will shape the future of the seed and plant breeding sectors.
Whether you are a policymaker, plant breeder, researcher, entrepreneur, or student, Euroseeds 2026 offers a unique opportunity to:
- Engage with key stakeholders and industry leaders
- Discover cutting-edge technologies and solutions
- Participate in high-level policy and regulatory discussions
- Connect with innovators through the InnovAction Stage and the InnovActor Award
- Join the NextGen Forum and engage with the potential next generation of professionals in the seed and plant breeding sectors
We warmly invite all members of the Euroseeds community, as well as those discovering it for the first time, to join us in Valencia from 25 to 28 October 2026.
Registration opens on 1 April 2026, secure your place soon!
