Why Virginia? Secretary Matthew Lohr Talks CEA Growth, Sustainability & What’s Next
Virginia keeps making headlines in the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) world—from big moves like UK-based Oasthouse Ventures bringing its first U.S. greenhouse operation to the state, to hands-on programs building the next generation of ag-tech talent. We caught up with Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr to hear what’s driving the momentum. In this Q&A, he shares how Virginia is supporting both large and small indoor farms, embracing sustainable energy solutions, and getting ready to welcome the industry back to Danville this fall for the 2025 CEA Summit East.
Oasthouse Ventures, Ltd, a UK-based sustainable business development firm, recently chose Virginia for its first U.S.-based CEA operation. What makes the Commonwealth such a strong draw for international companies like this?
Virginia offers a compelling combination of state support (economic incentives and tax policy), workforce development and a strong focus on innovative research through its universities and in research institutions. This three-pronged approach makes it an advantageous location for international companies seeking to establish CEA operations in the United States. Virginia’s location along the U.S. East Coast provides easy access to major markets and ports. The Commonwealth is conveniently located within a two-day drive of 75% of the U.S. population.
Oasthouse plans to source Virginia-grown hardwood residuals from local sawmills to heat its greenhouses. How does this concept fit into the future of indoor farming?
Energy is one of the biggest costs in CEA, so utilizing hardwood residuals from Virginia’s large forestry industry is a smart and sustainable approach. By burning residual biomass for heat, Oasthouse is adopting an innovative, mutually beneficial strategy that supports both local forestry and indoor farming industries. As indoor farming continues to expand, creative energy solutions like burning biomass will be critical to achieving long-term profitability.
Beyond the big headline projects, how is Virginia supporting smaller indoor farms?
Virginia’s Agricultural and Forestry Industries Development Fund (AFID) program helps smaller farms grow by fostering partnerships and investing in value-added agriculture and processing projects. This program supports farms of all sizes, helping small businesses thrive within the state’s agricultural industry. A key factor in Virginia’s success is its ability to attract both large and small CEA companies.
You’ve emphasized workforce development as key to CEA growth. What new programs or success stories are helping build Virginia’s indoor ag talent pipeline?
Virginia’s focus in workforce development is building indoor ag talent through initiatives like GO TEC, which engages middle school students in hands-on CEA education. Training is further supported by high school agriculture programs and the FFA. Virginia Western Community College is working to develop an Ag Technology associates degree based around the CEA industry, while universities like Virginia Tech and Virginia State University provide advanced CEA courses. All these programs help to create a comprehensive pipeline of skilled workers.
As you prepare to speak on the CEA Summit Opening Morning Sustainable Growth Keynote panel at this year’s CEA Summit East, what guidance would you offer growers about tapping into Virginia’s resources to scale sustainably and successfully?
I have had the pleasure of keynoting the CEA Summit East conference for the past three years. As growers expand their production, they should focus on perfecting a reliable growing method before scaling up. Securing a stable retail or wholesale market ensures that increased production does not outpace demand. Challenges are inevitable, so staying adaptable will help to find creative solutions that will be key to sustainable growth in Virginia and beyond.
Secretary Lohr will join Ben Alexander, Project Director, Oasthouse Ventures Limited and Roger Buelow, Chief Technology Officer for COFRA Sustainable Food Group, for the CEA Summit East opening morning keynote panel, Cultivating Sustainable Growth: Balancing Economics and the Environment in CEA
Learn more and join us September 9-10, 2025 at the Institute for Advanced Learning & Research Conference Center in Danville, Virginia, September 9-10, 2025.