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Agenda 2026

FIRA USA general agenda at a glance ! Stay tuned ...

EVENT

Opening hours

20th

Oct.

9am - 4pm

21st

Oct.

9am - 4pm

22nd

Oct.

9am - 4pm 

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Technical Visit: Discover Manzana Products’ New Processing Facility

Mon 19

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Technical Visit: Discover Manzana Products’ New Processing Facility

Pre Event Activities

Under registrations - limited to 20 persons Contact us to join this session: contact@world-fira.com Join an exclusive technical visit of Manzana Products’ newly opened processing facility, offering a behind-the-scenes look at state-of-the-art operations dedicated to apple transformation. Manzana Products converts apples into high-quality organic juices, sauces, and vinegars, playing a key role in supporting the fruit-growing ecosystem. This visit will highlight advanced processing technologies, quality control systems, and sustainable practices that maximize product value while strengthening connections between growers and processors. An opportunity to explore how innovation in processing contributes to a more resilient and efficient tree fruit industry.

Supported by

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Horticulture for Engineers

Mon 19

1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Allan Bros. Airport Ranch

Horticulture for Engineers

Pre Event Activities

« WA 64 Sunflare™ Pre-Harvest Field Tour North FIRA USA 2026 » Location: In the general Yakima area (exact location to be determined) This event is free to attend but we ask for people to register to get a proper headcount of attendance (registration form will be available soon) Intended Audience Technology start-ups, engineering and robotics graduate students, ag-tech developers, and anyone interested in learning the foundational science and practical operations of modern commercial tree fruit production. Event Theme & Overview (The agenda and schedule are subject to change.) This field day serves as an introductory primer for FIRA USA, designed to equip engineers and tech developers with essential horticultural vocabulary, operational insights, and field context to better collaborate with growers and solve real-world agricultural challenges. Participants will gain hands-on exposure and direct insight into key stages of establishing and managing a commercial tree fruit business: - Site Selection & Environmental Conditions: Evaluating slope and microclimates for air drainage to prevent spring frost damage, managing soil textures, and leveraging environmental sensor networks such as AgWeatherNet. - High-Density Orchard Architecture & Training Systems: Transitioning from traditional central leader setups to modern 2D planar and trellis systems (e.g., Spindle, V-trellis, or Upright Fruiting Offshoots) paired with dwarfing rootstocks. Learning how targeted canopy architectures optimize light interception, fruit quality, and accessibility for automated harvest and mechanization platforms. - Crop Load Management & Pruning Science: Understanding how dormant vs. summer pruning and specialized heading techniques (e.g., “click” pruning) manipulate tree vigor, regulate flower bud formation, and prevent alternate bearing. - Soil Nutrition & Irrigation Management: Soil pH management and precision nutrient delivery to balance vegetative growth with fruit quality. Integrated Pest & Disease Management (IPM): Scouting methods, spray coverage requirements, and air circulation strategies to control major pressures like fire blight and pear psylla. -Postharvest Science & Economics: Key quality metrics at harvest, storage physiology, and the economic variables driving orchard turnover and yield per acre. The field day will feature short field presentations paired with hands-on activities to bridge the gap between engineering innovations and biological orchard systems.
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FIRA USA VIP Dinner - under invitation only

Mon 19

6:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Pioneer Hall

FIRA USA VIP Dinner - under invitation only

Special happenings

By invitation only — open to selected growers and FIRA USA exhibitors, partners and speakers.

Supported by

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Breaking News & Breakfast: Press Briefing & Exclusive Announcements

TUES 20

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Press Room

Breaking News & Breakfast: Press Briefing & Exclusive Announcements

Media highlight

Every morning at FIRA USA, we set the stage for the day ahead. Join us for a dedicated 30-minute session designed exclusively for media: fresh announcements, the day’s agenda, partners’ special highlights, and key insights, all over breakfast. The essential news you need to hit the ground running and file your best stories. Over three days and three briefings, you’ll have everything you need to cover FIRA USA like never before. Registration is mandatory — secure your spot and get your free press badge for full access to FIRA USA.
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FIRA USA 5th edition - Official Opening

TUES 20

9:30 AM - 9:50 AM

Main Stage 1

FIRA USA 5th edition - Official Opening

Special happenings

Speakers

Aymeric Barthes President GOFAR

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Cultivating Innovation: Technology Needs and Opportunities in Agriculture  

TUES 20

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Main Stage

Cultivating Innovation: Technology Needs and Opportunities in Agriculture  

The Growers Experience

This dynamic and interactive panel will bring together key voices from across the agricultural ecosystem to explore the realities and future of AgTech adoption. The discussion will begin by highlighting the most pressing challenges facing major agricultural commodities today, from labor shortages and input costs to climate variability and sustainability pressures. Building on this foundation, panelists will share candid insights into recent AgTech innovations—examining both successes and failures—to uncover what truly drives impact in the field. Finally, the conversation will look ahead, identifying the critical tools, technologies, processes, and collaborations needed to accelerate innovation and enable scalable adoption. By connecting perspectives from growers, technology providers, and industry stakeholders, this session aims to spark practical ideas and foster meaningful dialogue on the path forward for agriculture.

Speakers

Andrew Nelson CEO/CIO Nelson Farms, Inc., AgAnswers

Raj Khosla International Society of Precision Agriculture Washington State University/CAHNRS

Matthew Whiting Professor, scientist, Extension Specialist Washington State University

Ines Hanrahan Executive Director WA Tree Fruit Research Commission (WTFRC)

Supported by

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Meet the Robots: Live Parade of AgTech Innovation

TUES 20

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Demo Zone

Meet the Robots: Live Parade of AgTech Innovation

The Growers Experience

Get a fast-paced overview of the robots shaping agriculture today. In this dynamic session, each machine takes the stage for a short live presentation. From autonomous platforms to precision tools, discover a wide range of AgTech innovations in one place. Designed to give you the big picture of the robots featured throughout the event, this parade helps you quickly understand who’s doing what and spot the solutions most relevant to your operations.

Speakers

Lucie Cahierre Program Manager UCANR

Ben Palone Sr. Director of Automation & Commercialization Western Growers

Supported by

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Your Crop, Your Challenges: What Can Automation & AgTech Deliver?

TUES 20

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Main Stage 1

Your Crop, Your Challenges: What Can Automation & AgTech Deliver?

The Growers Experience

ON REGISTRATION – Growers only – lunch provided This Barcamp session is dedicated exclusively to growers, providing a unique opportunity to meet and connect with fellow growers who are users of agricultural technologies. Participants will be grouped by crop type, with each table focusing on a specific crop to facilitate in-depth, peer-to-peer discussions. The format encourages open sharing of real-world experiences, challenges, and solutions, allowing growers to exchange practical insights and best practices directly with one another. This collaborative environment is designed to foster meaningful connections and actionable takeaways tailored to each crop’s unique needs.
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See It in Action: Robot Demonstrations Across Crops

TUES 20

12:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Demo Zone

See It in Action: Robot Demonstrations Across Crops

Demos

Throughout the event, robots will be running daily demonstrations. Across vineyards, orchards, vegetable and field crops, discover a wide range of solutions covering key operations, from seeding and mechanical weeding to precision spraying, navigation, and fleet management. Observe how these systems perform, assess their relevance to your farm, and form your own opinion. A unique opportunity to move beyond promises and see what automation can really deliver in practice.

Speakers

Lucie Cahierre Program Manager UCANR

Supported by

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RESERVOIR Press conference

TUES 20

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM

Stage 2

RESERVOIR Press conference

Media highlight

Speakers

Danny Bernstein CEO The Reservoir

Supported by

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Smart tech Pitch#1 by BURRO

TUES 20

1:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Stage 2

Smart tech Pitch#1 by BURRO

The Tech Builder Experience

   

Supported by

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Historic leader VS Startups: Are We Entering the Consolidation Era in Ag Robotics?

TUES 20

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Main Stage 1

Historic leader VS Startups: Are We Entering the Consolidation Era in Ag Robotics?

The Tech Builder Experience

As Ag Robotics matures, the industry may be entering a new phase, one shaped by consolidation, partnerships, and scale. This session brings together established manufacturers and emerging startups to discuss how the market is evolving. Are we moving from experimentation to integration? What roles will startups play as larger players accelerate their strategies? Through contrasting perspectives, this discussion explores business models, collaboration opportunities, and what it takes to succeed in the next stage of Ag Robotics.

Speakers

Tim Bucher CEO Agtonomy

Glen Rain University of Georgia, 4D Farms

Matt Darr Iowa State University, BioCentury Research Farm

Charlie Anderson CEO Burro

Troy Peters Director of the Center for Precision and Automated Agricultural Systems Washington State University

Lauren Milligan Content Specialist Women In Ag Tech

Colin Hurd Co-director Ag Startup Engine

Andres Manzanares Investor Stray Dog Capital

Tarquin Stephenson AgTech Investor Cibus Capital

Amber DeWitt Venture Associate Fulcrum Global Capital

Troy Peters Director of the Center for Precision and Automated Agricultural Systems Washington State University

Tim Raiswell CEO Oxrow.ai

Steve Mantle Founder/CEO Innov8.Ag

Lav Khot Director, AgWeatherNet | Professor, Precision Agriculture Washington State University

Congressman Dan Newhouse Washington State representative United State Congress

Doug Hartfield Agricultural Safety Technical Specialist Division of Occupational Safety and Health Washington State Department of Labor & Industry

Ignacio Marquez Regional Assistant to the Director Washington State Department of Agriculture

Anne Visser Professor University of California, Davis

Lucie Cahierre Program Manager UCANR

Paige Gilligan Secretary California Women for Agriculture

Matthew Whiting Professor, scientist, Extension Specialist Washington State University

Antoon Vanderstraeten Editor Women In Ag Magazine

Aymeric Barthes President GOFAR

Danny Bernstein CEO The Reservoir

Ben Palone Sr. Director of Automation & Commercialization Western Growers

Chrissy Wozniak Vice-President of Communication | Founder American Agri-Women | North American Ag

Alex Russomagno Senior Manager of Strategic Engagement AGCO Ventures

Connie Bowen General Partner Farmhand Ventures

Walt Duflock VP of Innovation Western Growers

Bijoy Shah Director of Growth PF Partners

Maialen Cazenave Co-director GOFAR/FIRA

Ines Hanrahan Executive Director WA Tree Fruit Research Commission (WTFRC)

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From Prototype to Production: How to Scale AgTech Without Breaking (or Bankrupting) Your Startup

TUES 20

3:00 PM - 3:45 PM

Main Stage 1

From Prototype to Production: How to Scale AgTech Without Breaking (or Bankrupting) Your Startup

The Tech Builder Experience

Moving from a working prototype to a scalable, reliable product is one of the toughest challenges in AgTech. This session explores what it really takes to industrialize robotic solutions, across engineering, manufacturing, distribution, and support. Through the perspectives of companies that have begun to scale, we’ll discuss key hurdles, critical decisions, and common pitfalls. A practical look at how to move beyond pilots and into real market deployment, without losing control of costs, quality, or operations.

Speakers

Charlie Anderson CEO Burro

Troy Peters Director of the Center for Precision and Automated Agricultural Systems Washington State University

Lauren Milligan Content Specialist Women In Ag Tech

Colin Hurd Co-director Ag Startup Engine

Andres Manzanares Investor Stray Dog Capital

Tarquin Stephenson AgTech Investor Cibus Capital

Amber DeWitt Venture Associate Fulcrum Global Capital

Troy Peters Director of the Center for Precision and Automated Agricultural Systems Washington State University

Tim Raiswell CEO Oxrow.ai

Steve Mantle Founder/CEO Innov8.Ag

Lav Khot Director, AgWeatherNet | Professor, Precision Agriculture Washington State University

Congressman Dan Newhouse Washington State representative United State Congress

Doug Hartfield Agricultural Safety Technical Specialist Division of Occupational Safety and Health Washington State Department of Labor & Industry

Ignacio Marquez Regional Assistant to the Director Washington State Department of Agriculture

Anne Visser Professor University of California, Davis

Lucie Cahierre Program Manager UCANR

Paige Gilligan Secretary California Women for Agriculture

Matthew Whiting Professor, scientist, Extension Specialist Washington State University

Antoon Vanderstraeten Editor Women In Ag Magazine

Aymeric Barthes President GOFAR

Danny Bernstein CEO The Reservoir

Ben Palone Sr. Director of Automation & Commercialization Western Growers

Chrissy Wozniak Vice-President of Communication | Founder American Agri-Women | North American Ag

Alex Russomagno Senior Manager of Strategic Engagement AGCO Ventures

Connie Bowen General Partner Farmhand Ventures

Bijoy Shah Director of Growth PF Partners

Maialen Cazenave Co-director GOFAR/FIRA

Ines Hanrahan Executive Director WA Tree Fruit Research Commission (WTFRC)

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Smart tech Pitch#2 by NIQO Robotics

TUES 20

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Stage 2

Smart tech Pitch#2 by NIQO Robotics

The Tech Builder Experience

Supported by

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Ag Robotics Regulation: What’s Allowed Today and What’s Coming Next?

TUES 20

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Main Stage 1

Ag Robotics Regulation: What’s Allowed Today and What’s Coming Next?

The Tech Builder Experience

Can a robot operate autonomously in your field today and under what conditions? This session brings together regulators, industry representatives, and farmers to clarify the current state of Ag Robotics regulation, with a focus on the Pacific Northwest. What is permitted, what remains restricted, and who is responsible when things go wrong? Speakers will also share how public authorities are working with industry to enable safe deployment, and why regulatory approaches differ across regions. A practical discussion to help navigate today’s rules and anticipate what’s next.

Speakers

Doug Hartfield Agricultural Safety Technical Specialist Division of Occupational Safety and Health Washington State Department of Labor & Industry

Ignacio Marquez Regional Assistant to the Director Washington State Department of Agriculture

Anne Visser Professor University of California, Davis

Lucie Cahierre Program Manager UCANR

Paige Gilligan Secretary California Women for Agriculture

Matthew Whiting Professor, scientist, Extension Specialist Washington State University

Antoon Vanderstraeten Editor Women In Ag Magazine

Aymeric Barthes President GOFAR

Danny Bernstein CEO The Reservoir

Ben Palone Sr. Director of Automation & Commercialization Western Growers

Chrissy Wozniak Vice-President of Communication | Founder American Agri-Women | North American Ag

Alex Russomagno Senior Manager of Strategic Engagement AGCO Ventures

Connie Bowen General Partner Farmhand Ventures

Bijoy Shah Director of Growth PF Partners

Maialen Cazenave Co-director GOFAR/FIRA

Ines Hanrahan Executive Director WA Tree Fruit Research Commission (WTFRC)

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Agtonomy Private demo

TUES 20

4:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Agtonomy Private demo

The Growers Experience

Under invitations - Limited access Sponsotred by Agtonomy.

Supported by

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FIRA USA Yakima Economic Developement Association afterwork

TUES 20

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Food Court

FIRA USA Yakima Economic Developement Association afterwork

Special happenings

Supported by

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Break & Match: Connecting Growers with Ag Robotics Manufacturers

Wed 21

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Main Stage 1

Break & Match: Connecting Growers with Ag Robotics Manufacturers

Matchmaking session

Private event, under invitation
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Break & Match: Connecting Investors with AgTech Startups

Wed 21

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Main Stage 1

Break & Match: Connecting Investors with AgTech Startups

Matchmaking session

By invitation only — open to selected start up and investors This exclusive, invite-only breakfast reinvents the startup-investor connection: investors browse startup profiles ahead of time and handpick exactly who they want to meet. In just two hours, meet 4 to 5 investors genuinely aligned with your sector, your stage, and your goals, whether you’re fundraising or looking for strategic partners. With focused, high-value meetings with people who are already interested in what you’re building.
Apply to join an exclusive matchmaking breakfast at FIRA USA. Selected AgTech & AgRobotics startups, from Seed to Series A/B, get a personalized schedule of private, 20-minute 1:1 meetings, arranged before the event.
  • Software solutions in agricultural robotics encompass digital platforms, algorithms, data analytics tools, and AI-driven systems that enable intelligent decision-making and automation in farming operations.
  • Hardware solutions encompass physical robotic systems, mechatronic devices, and intelligent equipment designed for agricultural tasks.

APPLY HERE

Speakers

Lucas Mann Co-Founder and Managing Partner Acre Venture Partners

Colin Hurd Co-director Ag Startup Engine

Andres Manzanares Investor Stray Dog Capital

Tarquin Stephenson AgTech Investor Cibus Capital

Amber DeWitt Venture Associate Fulcrum Global Capital

Alex Russomagno Senior Manager of Strategic Engagement AGCO Ventures

Connie Bowen General Partner Farmhand Ventures

Bijoy Shah Director of Growth PF Partners

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Break & Match: Connecting Manufacturers with Technology Suppliers

Wed 21

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Main Stage 1

Break & Match: Connecting Manufacturers with Technology Suppliers

Matchmaking session

By invitation only — open to selected start up and investors This curated session brings together investors and AgTech startups for focused, one-on-one meetings. Participants are matched based on investment thesis, stage, and technological focus to ensure relevant and productive exchanges. Whether you are raising, investing, or exploring opportunities, this format is designed to foster efficient discussions and spark potential partnerships beyond the event.
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Breaking News & Breakfast: Press Briefing & Exclusive Announcements

Wed 21

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Press Room

Breaking News & Breakfast: Press Briefing & Exclusive Announcements

Media highlight

Every morning at FIRA USA, we set the stage for the day ahead. Join us for a dedicated 30-minute session designed exclusively for media: fresh announcements, the day’s agenda, partners’ special highlights, and key insights, all over breakfast. The essential news you need to hit the ground running and file your best stories. Over three days and three briefings, you’ll have everything you need to cover FIRA USA like never before. Registration is mandatory — secure your spot and get your free press badge for full access to FIRA USA.
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Innovation Day Introductive talks

Wed 21

9:15 AM - 9:30 AM

Main Stage 1

Innovation Day Introductive talks

Innovation day

Speakers

Sarah Clifthorne Commerce Director Washington State Department of Commerce

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Del campo a la tecnología: Cómo los trabajadores agrícolas pueden adaptarse a la granja automatizada

Wed 21

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Stage 3

Del campo a la tecnología: Cómo los trabajadores agrícolas pueden adaptarse a la granja automatizada

The Growers Experience

Session only in Spanish Esta mesa redonda le da voz a los trabajadores agrícolas, las personas que laboran codo con codo junto a los robots en el campo. Aunque al principio suelen recibirla con escepticismo o preocupación, la automatización puede verse como una amenaza para el empleo. Pero, ¿qué pasa después de unos meses de uso real? A través de testimonios en primera persona, los participantes comparten cómo cambió su percepción, cómo los robots se integran al trabajo diario y qué significa, en la práctica, colaborar con estas herramientas. Una conversación sincera sobre confianza, adaptación y el lado humano de la automatización agrícola. “From Fields to Tech: How Farmworkers Can Transition to the Automated Farm” This roundtable gives the floor to farmworkers, the people directly working alongside robots in the field. Often met with skepticism or concern at first, automation can be perceived as a threat to jobs. But what happens after a few months of real use? Through firsthand testimonies, speakers share how their perception evolved, how robots fit into daily work, and what it really means to collaborate with these tools. A candid discussion on trust, adaptation, and the human side of farm automation.

Speakers

Ignacio Marquez Regional Assistant to the Director Washington State Department of Agriculture

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Public-private partnerships focused on agricultural innovation

Wed 21

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Main Stage 1

Public-private partnerships focused on agricultural innovation

Innovation day

In today's ultra-competitive funding landscape where resources are tight, public-private partnerships are more important than ever to continue to advance agricultural technology. In this panel discussion, we'll hear from representatives from academia, industry, and government about their experiences with public-private partnerships focused on agricultural innovation. We'll learn more about what has worked well and what are the opportunities for improvement.

Speakers

Sarah Masterson CEO CA Agtech Alliance

Steve Mantle Founder/CEO Innov8.Ag

Lav Khot Director, AgWeatherNet | Professor, Precision Agriculture Washington State University

Anne Visser Professor University of California, Davis

Matthew Whiting Professor, scientist, Extension Specialist Washington State University

Danny Bernstein CEO The Reservoir

Ines Hanrahan Executive Director WA Tree Fruit Research Commission (WTFRC)

Supported by

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Cultivating a first AI strategy in my farming business

Wed 21

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Stage 2

Cultivating a first AI strategy in my farming business

The Growers Experience

Putting AI to work on your farm during the season starts with a clear, long-term strategy. This panel explores how farmers and agribusiness leaders can move beyond experimentation to build an AI approach that delivers real value in day-to-day operations. From understanding ROI, managing risks, and staying competitive, to deciding whether to build, buy, or partner, experts will share practical frameworks for decision-making. The discussion will also address the foundations of a successful AI journey: data ownership and interoperability, infrastructure choices, and the human side of transformation—skills, teams, and adoption. Finally, panelists will outline how to prioritize investments over a 3–5 year horizon to turn AI into a scalable, operational tool throughout the growing season.
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See It in Action: Robot Demonstrations Across Crops

Wed 21

10:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Demo Zone

See It in Action: Robot Demonstrations Across Crops

Demos

Throughout the event, robots will be running daily demonstrations from 10:00 to 16:00. Across vineyards, orchards, vegetable and field crops, discover a wide range of solutions covering key operations—from seeding and mechanical weeding to precision spraying, navigation, and fleet management. Observe how these systems perform, assess their relevance to your farm, and form your own opinion. A unique opportunity to move beyond promises and see what automation can really deliver in practice.

Speakers

Lucie Cahierre Program Manager UCANR

Supported by

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Technical Talks - Building the Tech Stack for Agricultural Autonomy

Wed 21

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Main Stage 1

Technical Talks - Building the Tech Stack for Agricultural Autonomy

Innovation day

Sponsored by Washington State Department of Commerce, Washington State University & Blue River Technology.

Supported by

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Smart tech Pitch#3 by Premium Positionning

Wed 21

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Stage 2

Smart tech Pitch#3 by Premium Positionning

The Tech Builder Experience

Supported by

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Smart tech Pitch#4 by AgriDynamics Robotics

Wed 21

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Stage 2

Smart tech Pitch#4 by AgriDynamics Robotics

The Tech Builder Experience

Supported by

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Enabling Adoption: The Strategic Role of dealers in Deploying Agricultural Robotics

Wed 21

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Stage 2

Enabling Adoption: The Strategic Role of dealers in Deploying Agricultural Robotics

The Growers Experience

A robot is not a one-time purchase, it’s a system that needs to be maintained, updated, and supported over time. This workshop explores what happens after deployment: maintenance routines, software updates, breakdowns, spare parts, and the level of support you can realistically expect. Who do you call when something goes wrong? How fast can issues be resolved? And what skills do you need in-house? A practical look at the full lifecycle of a farm robot to help you avoid costly surprises.
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Smart tech Pitch#5 by Picker AgRobotics

Wed 21

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM

Stage 2

Smart tech Pitch#5 by Picker AgRobotics

The Tech Builder Experience

Supported by

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Lunch & Learn - Posters session

Wed 21

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Expo zone

Lunch & Learn - Posters session

Innovation day

Supported by

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The Night-Before Plan and the Morning Scramble: Ai Does the Planning Work, You Make the Decisions

Wed 21

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Stage 2

The Night-Before Plan and the Morning Scramble: Ai Does the Planning Work, You Make the Decisions

The Tech Builder Experience

Farming rarely goes exactly as planned. This panel focuses on how AI supports day-to-day operations, helping you prepare the night before while staying agile when reality shifts in the morning. From changing weather to labor and machine availability, AI can turn complexity into clear, actionable plans. Through concrete use cases such as spraying, harvesting, logistics, and packhouse decisions, speakers will explore how AI enables real-time adaptation while keeping farmers in control. The discussion will highlight the balance between automation and human judgment, and how to build trust in AI recommendations when decisions need to be made fast. The goal: make AI a practical co-pilot in the field, at harvest, and through packing and sales.

Speakers

Tim Raiswell CEO Oxrow.ai

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Lightning Talks #1: Research & Academic Innovations in AgRobotics & AgTech

Wed 21

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Main Stage 1

Lightning Talks #1: Research & Academic Innovations in AgRobotics & AgTech

Innovation day

Explore the latest breakthroughs in agricultural robotics and digital agriculture through a dynamic series of Lightning Talks led by researchers, universities, and academic consortia. Each short presentation highlights cutting-edge projects, emerging technologies, and scientific insights shaping the future of farming.

Speakers

Troy Peters Director of the Center for Precision and Automated Agricultural Systems Washington State University

Supported by

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Growers & Builders: Co-Designing Solutions for Your Crop

Wed 21

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

1st floor stage

Growers & Builders: Co-Designing Solutions for Your Crop

The Growers Experience

This open barcamp is designed as a hands-on working space where growers, solution builders, equipment manufacturers, and AgTech startups come together to actively shape the next generation of agricultural tools. Moving beyond traditional feedback sessions, participants will collaborate on real-world use cases, challenge current approaches, refine existing concepts, and explore new directions grounded in field realities. Each discussion table will focus on a key stage of the crop cycle, enabling targeted exchanges and practical problem-solving: Land Preparation & Soil Management (incl. tillage) Planting / Seeding / Establishment Irrigation & Water Management Nutrient Management (incl. fertigation) Crop Protection (pest, disease & weed management) Canopy & Crop Management (pruning, thinning, training, crop load management) Scouting, Monitoring & Sensing Yield Management & Forecasting Harvest Post-Harvest (handling, sorting, storage) By fostering direct dialogue between end-users and innovators, this session aims to accelerate the development of solutions that are not only technologically advanced, but also practical, scalable, and aligned with growers’ needs. Participants will leave with actionable insights, new connections, and a clearer vision of where innovation should focus next.
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Smart tech Pitch#6 by Precision Agri Tech

Wed 21

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Stage 2

Smart tech Pitch#6 by Precision Agri Tech

The Tech Builder Experience

Supported by

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Lightning Talks #2: Research & Academic Innovations in AgRobotics & AgTech

Wed 21

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Main Stage 1

Lightning Talks #2: Research & Academic Innovations in AgRobotics & AgTech

Innovation day

Explore the latest breakthroughs in agricultural robotics and digital agriculture through a dynamic series of Lightning Talks led by researchers, universities, and academic consortia. Each short presentation highlights cutting-edge projects, emerging technologies, and scientific insights shaping the future of farming.

Speakers

Troy Peters Director of the Center for Precision and Automated Agricultural Systems Washington State University

Supported by

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Smart tech Pitch#7 by Senseen US

Wed 21

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Stage 2

Smart tech Pitch#7 by Senseen US

Smart tech pitch

Supported by

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FIRA USA Awards & Community open house afterwork

Wed 21

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Food Court

FIRA USA Awards & Community open house afterwork

Media highlight

Speakers

Lauren Milligan Content Specialist Women In Ag Tech

Paige Gilligan Secretary California Women for Agriculture

Antoon Vanderstraeten Editor Women In Ag Magazine

Chrissy Wozniak Vice-President of Communication | Founder American Agri-Women | North American Ag

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Fun Run 5K

THURS 22

7:30 AM - 8:45 AM

Hansen Building105 S 18th St, Yakima, WA 98901

Fun Run 5K

Special happenings

Lace up your running shoes and join us for the FIRA USA Fun Run 5K! Whether you're a seasoned runner, casual jogger, or just want to enjoy a morning walk with friends, this event is all about having fun, connecting with fellow attendees, and enjoying the beautiful Yakima Greenway. The race will start and finish at the Hansen Building, with a scenic route along the Yakima Greenway. After crossing the finish line, stick around for a relaxed social gathering featuring local refreshments. It's the perfect opportunity to network, catch up with industry friends, and sample some of the great flavors our region has to offer. Bring your coworkers, family, and friends, and kick off your day with fresh air, great company, and a little friendly fun! Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/WA/Yakima/FIRAFunRun5k
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Farming the Future: How the Next Generation is Revolutionizing Agriculture with Robotics & Tech

THURS 22

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Main Stage 1

Farming the Future: How the Next Generation is Revolutionizing Agriculture with Robotics & Tech

Campus Day

Speakers

Kelly Scott Director, Farm Robotics Challenge UC Agriculture and Natural Resources

Glen Rain University of Georgia, 4D Farms

Supported by

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Breaking News & Breakfast: Press Briefing & Exclusive Announcements

THURS 22

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Press Room

Breaking News & Breakfast: Press Briefing & Exclusive Announcements

Media highlight

Every morning at FIRA USA, we set the stage for the day ahead. Join us for a dedicated 30-minute session designed exclusively for media: fresh announcements, the day’s agenda, partners’ special highlights, and key insights, all over breakfast. The essential news you need to hit the ground running and file your best stories. Over three days and three briefings, you’ll have everything you need to cover FIRA USA like never before. Registration is mandatory — secure your spot and get your free press badge for full access to FIRA USA.
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Smart Farms in America: University and Industry Prospective

THURS 22

9:00 AM - 9:55 AM

Stage 2

Smart Farms in America: University and Industry Prospective

Smart farms tour

Across the country, university and industry-led smart farm testbeds are generating real-world data on what precision agriculture actually delivers, not just what it promises. This panel brings together researchers and industry leaders who've run these pilots to share hard-won lessons: which sensors and systems held up under field conditions, where the technology underperformed expectations, and what surprised them. Growers will hear candid takeaways on cost, reliability, and readiness for their own operations — grounded not in theory, but in what's already been tested, measured, and learned on working farms. Learn more: : https://smartorchard.wsu.edu/

Speakers

Glen Rain University of Georgia, 4D Farms

Matt Darr Iowa State University, BioCentury Research Farm

Lav Khot Director, AgWeatherNet | Professor, Precision Agriculture Washington State University

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Smart Irrigation: Rethinking Water Management with AgTech & Automation

THURS 22

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM

Stage 2

Smart Irrigation: Rethinking Water Management with AgTech & Automation

Smart farms tour

Water management is becoming a critical challenge across many farming systems, requiring more precise, efficient, and resilient irrigation practices. This roundtable will explore how AgTech and automation are reshaping irrigation, from monitoring and decision-support tools to automated systems in the field. What solutions are already delivering value? What are the limits in real farm conditions? And how can technology better support growers facing increasing constraints on water use? Bringing together different perspectives, this session will provide a broad view of current innovations and practical pathways forward.

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See It in Action: Robot Demonstrations Across Crops

THURS 22

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Demo Zone

See It in Action: Robot Demonstrations Across Crops

Demos

Speakers

Lucie Cahierre Program Manager UCANR

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Beyond the Farm Gate: Quantifying the Regional Multiplier of the AgTech Cluster

THURS 22

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Main Stage 1

Beyond the Farm Gate: Quantifying the Regional Multiplier of the AgTech Cluster

The Tech Builder Experience

While much of the AgTech conversation focuses on on-farm ROI, the long-term economic vitality of agricultural economies will depend on how well regions capture the broader "AgTech multiplier." This session will focus on early attempts to understand regional economic impact analysis and explore how investments in autonomous systems may be able to seed a new economy for Washington and agriculture broadly - from specialized robotics maintenance hubs to localized data-processing centers. The goal is to move the discussion from "cost-savings for growers" to "wealth-building for the region," featuring a roundtable with VCs, regional development officers, local bankers, and industrial site developers as well as industry leaders.
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Meet the Robots: Live Parade of AgTech Innovation

THURS 22

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM

Demo Zone

Meet the Robots: Live Parade of AgTech Innovation

Campus Day

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Right Load, Right Time: How AgTech Is Transforming Crop Load Management

THURS 22

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Stage 2

Right Load, Right Time: How AgTech Is Transforming Crop Load Management

Smart farms tour

Crop load monitoring and management is a fundamental process in crop production to ensure adequate fruit size and quality, and prevent alternate bearing in apples. Management of crop load starts in the winter with pruning followed by multiple stages in between; spur removal, bloom thinning by hand or chemical, fruit removal. These tasks should target the potential of the tree, thus requiring precision and variable management. This roundtable will explore how AgTech and automation are improving precision management, from monitoring and decision-support tools to automated systems addressing variable conditions in the field. What solutions are already delivering value? What are the limits in real farm conditions? And how can technology better support growers facing increasing constraints on labor availability? Bringing together different perspectives, this session will provide a broad view of current innovations and practical pathways forward.

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Smart Farms Tours & Networking Social

THURS 22

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

WSU Smart Apple Orchard Tesbed, Moxee, WA

Smart Farms Tours & Networking Social

Smart farms tour

Walk the rows of WSU's Smart Orchard and vineyard testbeds and see precision agriculture research in action. This field tour visits will cover technology in action for precision irrigation, with live demonstrations of soil and tree-sap flow sensors and weather-guided scheduling; crop load and yield mapping and management technologies, orchard autonomy, featuring autonomous tractors, precision spray retrofits, and robotic harvesters. The tour will have bilingual demonstrations ensuring participants can engage directly with the technology. Post tour, there will be sponsored networking socials at the Smart Farm Testbed. Learn more: : https://smartorchard.wsu.edu/

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