Business Meets Science Event: innovation at the intersection of Poultry Farming and Research
On 16 December 2025, science and practice came together during the Business Meets Science Event at Omnia in Wageningen. The event, a collaboration between the Dutch Poultry Centre (DPC) and Wageningen Livestock Research (WLR), brought together poultry farmers, industry representatives, researchers, and educators with one shared goal: accelerating innovation through collaboration.
From meeting to collaboration
The afternoon began with a warm welcome by DPC chairman Jan Wolleswinkel, followed by an introduction to the programme by Rick van Emous (WLR). Central to the event was the creation of new connections between (young) researchers and the poultry industry. The focus was not only on sharing knowledge, but especially on jointly developing projects that contribute to a future-proof sector.
The BOBO framework as a foundation
During the plenary session, attention was given to the Dutch innovation structure in poultry production. Where the OVO triangle (Research, Extension, Education) once played a central role, the BOBO framework now takes centre stage: Farmers, Research, Industry, and Education. This approach forms the basis for Public–Private Partnerships (PPP) and aligns well with current themes such as legislation, animal health, and sustainable farm management.
Inspiring scientific pitches
A series of short pitches provided a broad and inspiring overview of ongoing and future research. Topics ranged from measuring individual animal behaviour using sensors, early nutrition and light–dark cycles in chicks, to “happy sounds” for chickens and feeding live insects. Nutritional topics were also addressed, such as the role of fibre in protein and amino acid digestibility and the use of local protein sources in poultry feed. The pitches not only offered insight but clearly invited participants to contribute ideas and collaborate.
Better for Animal and Farmer (BAF)
An important recurring theme was the BAF approach (Better for Animal and Farmer). This approach focuses on improving animal welfare while simultaneously achieving positive effects on technical performance, such as lower mortality and improved production results. Examples include reducing footpad dermatitis, innovative housing systems, and the use of slower-growing broilers.
Matchmaking: where ideas become concrete
After the break, matchmaking took centre stage. In several rounds, participants engaged in discussions to explore concrete opportunities for collaboration. This format encouraged direct interaction and resulted in valuable connections between research and practice.
Networking
The afternoon concluded with a plenary wrap-up followed by bites and drinks. Participants continued discussions and networking in an informal setting.
The Business Meets Science Event demonstrated that the power of innovation lies in meeting and collaboration. By bringing science and industry closer together, the event contributed to developing solutions for a sustainable, healthy, and economically strong poultry sector.
