Founded in 2018 by Martin Molenaar and Jo-André Flåseth at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Avisomo develops automated and modular vertical farming solutions. The company provides technology, equipment, and software for organizations seeking efficient, scalable, and sustainable indoor vegetable farming.
The funding consists of a €1.6 million grant from Innovation Norway and €3.4 million from existing investors. Avisomo’s “no-hands farming” system is specifically designed for large-scale vertical farming operations, enabling seamless integration into existing supply chains. CEO and Co-founder Martin Molenaar emphasizes that their technology removes the need for local expertise in cultivation, chemistry, or technical operations, making year-round fresh food production feasible with minimal resource consumption.
The Impact of Vertical Farming on Sustainability Vertical farming optimizes space by growing plants in stacked layers, utilizing hydroponic or aeroponic techniques where nutrients are delivered through water-based solutions rather than soil. This method significantly reduces food waste—Avisomo reports that up to 30% of imported lettuce is wasted before reaching store shelves, while indoor farming minimizes disease risks, extending product shelf life.
Additional benefits of vertical farming include:
- More harvests per square meter compared to traditional farming.
- Substantial reduction in water consumption.
- Decreased reliance on food imports, cutting down transport emissions.
According to Sverre H. Bjørnstad, Director of Innovation Norway Innlandet, Avisomo has consistently demonstrated strong execution capabilities. The organization believes Avisomo’s technology can strengthen Norway’s self-sufficiency in food production and has significant export potential.
A Step Toward Large-Scale Implementation Avisomo’s industrial pilot, developed in collaboration with Norwegian food retailer Coop, is nearing completion. By the summer of 2025, the facility is expected to produce up to 100 tons of fresh lettuce annually, focusing on varieties that are typically imported. This marks a critical milestone in advancing sustainable, locally-produced food through high-tech farming innovations.
Avisomo’s advancements in vertical farming highlight the potential of automation in sustainable food production. With strong financial backing and support from Innovation Norway, the company is positioned to become a leader in efficient, large-scale indoor agriculture. As vertical farming continues to evolve, solutions like Avisomo’s could revolutionize the global agricultural landscape, making food production more resilient and eco-friendly.
