b'access, providing targeted agronomicventional seed potatoes are unavailable, education, and offering localized support.degraded, or unaffordable, true seeds Key activities include the establishmentprovide a clean and reliable alternative.of demonstration plots and knowledgeWe aim to bring value to those transfer activities to highlight the per- markets where the traditional system formance and benefits of TPS. We areis not performing adequately, Mark confident that this innovative solution willHoogendoorn, sales lead at Solynta. We enable smallholders to increase produc- believe there are many opportunities to tivity, enhance profitability, and adoptimprove access to starting material, which more sustainable farming practices. in turn improves grower returns. We The companys flexible business modelhave chosen to follow an indirect sales supports both local seed production andapproach, which means that in various international collaborationsensuringgeographies we work via local distribu-that hybrid TPS can be delivered efficientlytors to supply seed to growers. These and affordably where its needed most. distributors have deep knowledge of Edwin van der Vossen, Solynta head ofSolyntas financial strategy hasthe agronomic practises in their region research & development. evolved from securing long-term, mis- and give us feedback on the growers sion-aligned investment for R&D to build- requirements. Our area sales managers, ing a scalable and sustainable commercialdistributors and product specialists visit model, said Hein Kruyt, co-founder andthe growers fields often, and support CFO at Solynta. During the first pioneer- them throughout the entire season. Once ing days of Solynta, we have been primar- growers experience how straightforward ily focused on the development of theit is to achieve a strong yield from true breeding platform, the first good potatopotato seeds, they quickly recognize the varieties and the discovery of genes thatpotential of this innovative approach. Our give us competitive edge over the clonalarea sales managers are actively seeking system. Early funding focused on devel- new partnerships to introduce true potato oping our innovative true potato seedseeds in additional regions. This solution (TPS) technology, while current effortsis particularly well received in areas where are geared toward efficient production,tuber availability is limited or quality is market expansion, and partnerships. poor, offering growers a reliable and effi-Today, we see the market demandcient alternative. and interest increasing for true potatoWere not just improving a cropseeds. This requires scaling up our pro- were creating the foundation for a new duction as well as our workforce. As away of growing potatoes, Miller said. A result, our financial approach continues toway thats more productive, more resil-balance innovation with operational disci- ient, and more inclusive.pline as we grow globally, he says. With its shift into commercial opera-VK Kishore, vice president and head oftions, Solynta is poised to accelerate the global product innovation and new cropsLaying the Groundwork for a Moreadoption of hybrid potatoes globally. TheVegetables R&D at Bayer Crop Science. Resilient Food System innovation phase laid the groundwork. As climate pressures increase andNow, the focus is impact. demand for food continues to rise,The future of potatoes starts now, Solyntas approach offers a scalable,Miller concluded. And with hybrid true sustainable solution for one of the worldsseeds, were building a better, stronger most vital crops. In areas where con- food system from the ground up.22/ SEEDWORLD.COMINTERNATIONAL EDITION 2025'