Tag: sprouts

Sprouting Success: ISGA Returns To Indoor Ag-Con For 2026 Las Vegas Edition

Written by Indoor Ag-Con on September 1, 2025. Posted in Blog, Press Releases.

Annual Convention Brings the Global Sprout Industry Together with the CEA Community For Expanded Networking, Education & Innovation

Building on the successful 2025 partnership, Indoor Ag-Con, the premier trade show and conference for controlled environment agriculture (CEA), is pleased to announce that the International Sprout Growers Association (ISGA) will once again co-locate its Annual Convention with Indoor Ag-Con’s upcoming edition, February 11-12, 2026, at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.

The 2025 collaboration united sprout and microgreen growers, greenhouse operators, vertical farmers, CEA innovators, researchers, suppliers, and other industry leaders from around the world for two days of networking, education, and dealmaking. The 2026 return promises to expand on that success — offering ISGA members full access to Indoor Ag-Con’s show floor, educational sessions, and networking events, while Indoor Ag-Con attendees can tap into ISGA’s specialized sprout-focused programming.

The ISGA 34th Annual Educational Convention track will spotlight:

• Keynote: Frank Yiannas — Former Deputy Commissioner for Food at the U.S. FDA and food safety leader for Disney and Walmart—sharing strategies to foster a culture of safety, innovation, and excellence.
• Dr. Kathleen Liang — W.K. Kellogg Distinguished Professor of Sustainable Agriculture—diving into The Future of Sprouts, nature’s healthiest food, and inspiring new ways to integrate sprouts into diets worldwide.
• Additional sessions packed with industry insights, history, and innovation in indoor agriculture—coming soon.

“Indoor Ag-Con is thrilled to welcome ISGA back for our 2026 event,” said Brian Sullivan, CEO, Indoor Ag-Con. “This partnership creates a powerhouse gathering for the global CEA Community — bringing together growers, innovators and suppliers to share ideas, spark partnerships, and drive the next wave of industry growth.

ABOUT INDOOR AG-CON
Founded in 2013, Indoor Ag-Con has become the largest trade show and conference for the CEA sector, encompassing vertical farming, greenhouse production, and more. Crop-agnostic in its approach, the event covers everything from produce and cannabis to alternate proteins and non-food crops. Indoor Ag-Con brings together industry professionals from around the world to explore the latest trends, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of agriculture. More information – www.indoor.ag

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL SPROUT GROWERS ASSOCIATION (ISGA)
Since 1989, ISGA (The International Sprout Growers Association) has served as the global voice of sprout growers and suppliers, representing members across North & South America, Europe, Asia, New Zealand, and Australia. With a mission to advance the sprout industry, ISGA promotes best practices, fosters global information exchange, and champions sprouts as a cornerstone of a healthier, more sustainable future. More information – www.isga-sprouts.org

Indoor Ag-Con Announces Five Educational Tracks For 2025 Conference

Written by Indoor Ag-Con on January 21, 2025. Posted in Press Releases.

90+ Expert Speakers, 25 Sessions Covering Technical Grower Techniques, Operations, Market Trends, Cannabis, and Sprout Grower Insights

Indoor Ag-Con, the largest show dedicated to controlled environment agriculture, greenhouse and vertical farming, is excited to unveil its comprehensive lineup of educational tracks for its upcoming 2025 conference at the Westgate Las Vegas March 11-12, 2025. This year’s program is designed to offer in-depth insights and practical knowledge across the entire spectrum of CEA, appealing to growers, business leaders, and industry innovators alike. Recognized as a major global platform for influential thought leaders from diverse backgrounds, Indoor Ag-Con’s all-star lineup of speakers hail from farms, universities, associations, industry supplier operations and more.

The comprehensive educational program will feature pre-show Food Safety workshops on March 10 followed by the full show line-up, including 5 comprehensive tracks, live theater presentations on the show floor Expo Theater and two headliner keynotes to be announced soon. Track sessions include:

Technical Grower Track
This track delves into the cutting-edge techniques and technologies that drive modern indoor cultivation. From nutrient management to lighting optimization, attendees will gain actionable strategies to enhance crop yields, improve resource efficiency, and maintain consistent product quality. Sessions include: “Mastering Integrated Pest Management: Best Practices for CEA Success”, “Water Wise: Maximizing Water Quality for Optimal Yields”, “Seeds to Success: Maximizing Yield from the Ground Up”, “Illuminating Success: Creating the Best Light Recipe for Your Crops” and “Nutrient Know-How: Optimizing Your Fertilizer Regimen”.

Planning and Operations Track
Focused on the business side of CEA, the Planning and Operations track helps attendees streamline workflows, scale their operations, and navigate regulatory frameworks. Experts will share their experiences in creating sustainable supply chains, managing costs and resources, and implementing best practices that ensure long-term success. Key sessions include: “Waste to Watt: Innovative Energy Solutions in CEA”, “Post Harvest Success: Mastering CEA Distribution Channels”, ”Road to Profitability in CEA: Navigating Products, Buyers, and Distribution Channels”, “Packaging the Future: Sustainable Solutions in CEA Shipping & Retail Packaging” and “Berry Profitable: Strategies for High-Yield Berry Production in CEA”.

Trends Track
The Trends track offers a forward-looking perspective on the future of indoor farming. Participants will explore emerging market opportunities, the impact of shifting consumer preferences, and the latest advancements in technology including automation and AI. This track is essential for those looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Key sessions include: “”Harvest to Hospitality: Bridging CEA with the Service Industry”, AI, Robotics, and IoT: Sowing the Seeds of Technological Transformation in CEA”, “Trends in Canada: Insights from Leading CEA Growers Across the Nation,” Expanding Horizons: Emerging Crops in Controlled Environment Agricultureand “Funding Growth: Navigating Investments in CEA”.

Cannabis Track
Back by popular demand since launching in 2024, the Cannabis track provides targeted insights into cultivation practices, product development, and compliance challenges specific to this high-value sector. Experts will address the unique considerations of cannabis production, from genetics and growing methods to packaging and branding. Key sessions include: “The State of the Industry and Future Prospects | Cannabis Crossroads”, “Precision Growth: Crop Steering Techniques in Cannabis Cultivation” “Genetic Frontiers: Innovating Cannabis Breeding in CEA”, “Intra-Canopy vs. Sub-Canopy Lighting: Enhancing Cannabis Cultivation with Advanced Lighting Strategies” and “Crafting Excellence: Ensuring Product Integrity in Cannabis Cultivation”.

International Sprout Growers Association 33^rd Annual Convention Track

The International Sprout Growers Association (ISGA) will hold its 33rd Annual Convention alongside Indoor Ag-Con. Partnering with the International Sprout Growers Association, this special track highlights a comprehensive platform for exploring the latest advancements, trends, and research in sprout production. With a focus on both practical applications and forward-looking strategies, the ISGA Convention Track serves as a vital resource for those committed to excellence in the sprout industry. Key sessions include: “Sprouts Through the Ages”, “The Superfood of Tomorrow: How Sprouts Can Revolutionize Global Nutrition – for Humans and Animals Alike”, “Seeds of Change: The Future of Seed Production for Sprouting and Human Consumption”, “The International Sprout Growers Association: Cultivating the Future of Sprouts”, and “Revolutionizing Food Safety: Lessons from the Sprout Industry”.

Indoor Ag-Con 2025 offers an unparalleled experience for learning, networking, and collaboration,” said Brian Sullivan, Indoor Ag-Con. “Our goal is to equip attendees with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape and contribute to the future of food production.”

In addition to unrivaled education, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the largest expo floor in the show’s 12-year history and to network at daily luncheons, breakouts, opening day cocktail reception, and more.

For more information on the 2025 schedule, please visit www.indoor.ag.

ABOUT:

Founded in 2013, Indoor Ag-Con has emerged as the largest trade show and conference for vertical farming | greenhouse |controlled environment agriculture. Its events are crop-agnostic and touch all sectors of the business, covering produce, legal cannabis | hemp, alternate protein and non-food crops. More information, visit www.indoor.ag

The International Sprout Growers Association to Co-Locate 33rd Annual Convention with Indoor Ag-Con in Las Vegas

Written by Indoor Ag-Con on November 12, 2024. Posted in Press Releases.

Las Vegas, NV (November 13, 2024) — Indoor Ag-Con, the premier trade show and conference for controlled environment agriculture (CEA), is pleased to announce that the International Sprout Growers Association (ISGA) will hold its 33rd Annual Convention alongside Indoor Ag-Con’s upcoming March 11-12, 2025 edition at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. This news follows the recent announcement that the CEA Alliance, the membership trade association representing vertical farms and greenhouse producers, will also be hosting its annual meeting and presenting the opening morning ‘State of the Industry’ keynote address at Indoor Ag-Con. Together, these co-locations will bring a diverse community of CEA professionals to one venue, creating unparalleled opportunities for cross-industry engagement and knowledge sharing.

The addition of ISGA’s educational track will give Indoor Ag-Con attendees access to sessions exploring the latest in sprout production, food safety, and sprout-based nutrition, while ISGA members will benefit from the full scope of Indoor Ag-Con’s expansive expo floor, educational sessions, and networking events.

“Indoor Ag-Con is thrilled to welcome the International Sprout Growers Association to our 2025 event, reinforcing our commitment to being the gathering place for individuals, associations, and organizations in CEA and related industries worldwide,” said Brian Sullivan, CEO, Indoor Ag-Con. “With an increasingly global audience, we’re especially excited to welcome ISGA, whose international membership makes them a perfect fit for our event. By bringing together sprout growers, vertical farm operators, greenhouse producers, and the broader CEA community, we’re creating a unique space for sharing ideas, building partnerships, and sparking innovation that will benefit all.”

“The opportunity to co-locate our convention with Indoor Ag-Con offers ISGA members access to an incredibly broad spectrum of knowledge, tools, and networking,” added Carmen Wakeling, ISGA president and Co-Owner | CEO Eatmore Sprouts & Greens Ltd, British Columbia, Canada. “This collaboration strengthens our commitment to advancing the sprout industry while connecting our members with the larger CEA community to share insights and explore new opportunities.”

ISGA’s educational track will feature sessions on topics ranging from the historical importance of sprouts to their potential role as a global superfood, alongside essential insights into food safety and sustainable seed production. Highlights include:

Sprouts Through the Ages — Discover the rich history of sprouts and their evolution into a superfood with vast nutritional benefits.

The Superfood of Tomorrow— Explore how sprouts could revolutionize global nutrition for both humans and animals.

Seeds of Change — Learn about the latest advancements in seed production and their implications for sustainable diets.

Revolutionizing Food Safety— Hear about groundbreaking food safety practices that are setting new industry standards.

The International Sprout Growers Association: Cultivating the Future of Sprouts – A chance to learn more about the ISGA, what it stands for and how it’s shaping the future of the sprout industry.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL SPROUT GROWERS ASSOCIATION (ISGA)
Since 1989, the ISGA has been the voice of sprout growers and suppliers worldwide, promoting the industry and fostering information exchange across the globe. Representing members in North and South America, Europe, Asia, New Zealand, and Australia, ISGA is dedicated to advancing the sprout industry and supporting members with resources and advocacy for a healthier, more sustainable future. More information –www.isga-sprouts.org

Fullei Fresh | How We Started in CEA Humbly with Sprouts

Written by Olivia Wong, CEO Fullei Fresh on February 5, 2023. Posted in Blog, Exhibitor News.

As a kid and even into my college years, when asked what my parents do for a living, I would say, “we grow sprouts” and people would make a bewildered face and ask “Brussel sprouts?” I would proceed to say, “no, like bean sprouts, alfalfa, wheatgrass…” and I was met with indifference and a quick end to that conversation. Fast forward a couple of decades and overwhelmingly I am met with amazement and smiles. We must thank the trendiness of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), indoor farming, hydroponic farming, vertical farming, urban farming… take your pick of names and we fall under all of them.

What I find most humorous is that we have been doing it for generations and now is when it is being widely talked about. Sprouting is an ancient practice going back centuries in Asia and the Middle East. All sorts of legumes and other vegetables are sprouted for their digestibility and as a protein and fiber rich food source. Sprouts are the first few days of growth and therefore the origin of all vegetables. The same broccoli sprouts we grow can become full grown heads of broccoli.

How my father, Manny Wong, and I got started in CEA is that my grandfather grew bean sprouts for a few years back in the late 1930s-1940s. My father started commercially growing in 1978 and I joined the family business full time in 2010. Sprout farms have always been mom and pop or family businesses with tiny budgets and a lot of heart. We were forced to think outside the box and reconfigure equipment or experiment with processes because there were no CEA books to reference and few resources. Even 10 years ago, financial institutions and insurance companies denied our applications or quoted us high interest rates or premiums and asked for collateral because they did not understand CEA or thought it to be a risky investment.

Ingenuity plus modest (mostly self-funded) investments have resulted in our superior quality sprouts and our being recognized as industry leaders. It did not happen overnight. Little by little through the decades we added equipment to help with the growing process, harvesting and packing. The entire growing process (except for planting) is automated with watering systems, fans, lights and rotating machines. We monitor the temperature of the water, growing rooms, packing rooms, coolers, and delivery trucks. Water is purified in house with a 4-step system and PH is monitored. Air flow and humidity is taken into account. Wash tanks and centrifuges aid the harvesting process. We have packing machines, labelers, coders… Many of these have become standards for CEA in general, but that was not the case when we started implementing them, and especially not for the sprout industry.

I am truly amazed at the progress we have made by being creative and innovative without major outside investment (and not that we had much personally to invest either.) It took baby steps and really picking and choosing where to spend funds plus a lot of literal blood, sweat and tears. My father designed and built or modified a lot of the tools and equipment we use out of necessity since not much was out there for C.E.A. or it was too expensive. While it is wonderful that so many are willing to invest in CEA, it is also possible to start on a small scale. Yes, some equipment will be expensive and necessary, but you also do not need to buy all of it or get fancy. We are proof of that.

One of the most important keys to success in CEA is an understanding of plant growth. Having that as a basis will allow you to literally grow the business. That is not to say shun capital investors, but that understanding / knowledge coupled with a lot of heart will go a long way. Do not be disillusioned by thinking you will not succeed if you do not secure millions in funding. Money helps, but more important is knowledge, wise spending, creativity and a will to succeed. I welcome you to challenge yourself.

After 45 years of owning and operating a sprout farm, my father is passing his knowledge down through our consulting business. We invite you to reach out. For more information, visit www.letushelpyougrow.com and www.fulleifresh.com.