HortiEdit 2025: Thriving plants, sustainable harvest

About 

Bayer AG is a German multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company. Its Crop Science division focuses on agricultural innovation, specializing in crop protection, biotechnology, and seed development to support sustainable farming and global food security.

The Challenge  

The challenge focuses on applying gene editing to improve resilience and sustainability in specialty crops. It aims to explore:

• Disease-resistant traits in tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, melons, and strawberries
• Structural traits that support efficient, mechanized production
• Tolerance to variable growing conditions and reduced input needs

The ultimate goal is to develop gene-edited crops with measurable benefits, ready for trait integration and commercial development.

Reward

Successful applicants may receive an unrestricted grant from Bayer Crop Science. Additional benefits may include access to Bayer Vegetable Seeds’ expertise, global market reach through established distribution networks, and potential use of facilities depending on the proposal.

Timeframe

• Deadline for Submitting Proposals: July 31

Who can apply  

• Applicants with TRL 5-9 solutions

How to apply 

Application through HALO Platform.

Find here all the details and the submission page

 The SPIN4EIC consortium is not responsible for the challenges launched by private or public buyers. Each participating entity is solely responsible for its own challenge, including the selection process, communication with applicants, and all information provided to participants.