Dutch Dairy Challenge

Fedecom is a co-initiator of the Dutch Dairy Challenge: the leading driver of innovation in dairy farming. Dairy farmers have until December 2 to submit their innovative ideas for participation. If an idea is selected, it will be developed with coaching, tools, and a broad network. It will also be tested in practice to see if it’s more than just a good idea on paper! By joining forces within the sector, we’re working on new techniques and innovations that advance the dairy farming industry.

Think in terms of solutions, not problems. That’s how the dairy industry in the Netherlands has become the most innovative in the world! Do you have an idea for better soil, healthier cows, or reduced nitrogen, but lack the knowledge, coaching, or network to develop it? Through the Dutch Dairy Challenge, we’ll turn your idea into a practical innovation!

When you sign up, we’ll assemble a team around your idea. A coach with industry experience and several students with expertise in dairy farming and innovation will guide you step by step. During three workshops and the final round, you’ll receive tools and guidance to prepare your idea for real-world implementation. This not only helps your business grow, but also allows you to build a valuable network.

You can submit your idea from September 9 through December 2, 2024.

Check out the program booklet and the Dutch Dairy Challenge website.

Testimonial from Pieter Hoenderkerken:

“Participating in the Dutch Dairy Challenge alongside innovative dairy farmers was inspiring and gave me insight into just how forward-thinking the sector is. I urge dairy farmers and supply chain partners to seize this opportunity in 2025!” – Pieter Hoenderken, 2024 participant.

“At Impact IoT Solutions, I’m responsible for developing new products and services. I monitor market trends and frequently speak with people in the agricultural sector, such as dairy farmers, feed consultants, and veterinarians. During one conversation, it became clear that dairy farmers use multiple apps and portals. As we talked, we thought: why not create a dashboard with KPIs, including animal health? A model that can predict when a cow is at risk of getting sick.”

“I developed this idea during the Dutch Dairy Challenge with Elles te Winkel – Leijdekkers. To our surprise, we were selected! We were given the opportunity to further develop the concept with coach Juliëtte Huis in ’t Veld – van de Riet and students from Avans Business Innovation. During the workshops, there was plenty of opportunity to exchange ideas with other groups—in other words, valuable networking opportunities.

“We’re still hard at work on further developing the concept, now in collaboration with FNV Regio Achterhoek, particularly in the area of artificial intelligence. Are you a dairy farmer or involved in the dairy industry? Do you have an idea? Sign up!”