FAO Global Conference on Smart Farming 2026: Scaling Digital Innovation for Smallholder Farmers and Agribusinesses

Are you ready to discover the latest smart farming technologies that are revolutionizing global food systems? The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has officially announced the Global Conference on Smart Farming: Leveraging Data and Technology for Sustainable Agrifood Systems. Scheduled to take place from July 1st to 3rd, 2026, at the FAO headquarters in Rome and online, this hybrid event is a must-attend for agronomists, student leaders, and practicing farmers looking to scale their production using artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data.

Smart Farming 
Source: FAO

​For Nigerian farmers and agropreneurs, this conference offers a unique platform to access scalable solutions for small-scale farming and climate-resilient agriculture. With a heavy focus on youth and women’s entrepreneurship, the FAO aims to bridge the digital divide by showcasing practical innovations that improve soil and water management while reducing input costs. By participating, you can connect with a global network of policymakers, development partners, and private sector leaders who are actively investing in the next generation of sustainable agrifood systems.

​Key Highlights of the Conference:

• ​Scaling Smart Systems: Learn how to adapt high-tech precision tools for small-scale farm environments.
• ​Youth & Women Empowerment: Specialized sessions on promoting digital skills and entrepreneurship among young farmers.
• ​Technological Innovation: Insights into AI-supported advisory services, GPS-guided drones, and autonomous feeding systems.
• ​Global Networking: Engage with stakeholders from across the globe to identify priorities for policy and investment.

​How to Participate:

The conference is designed to be inclusive, offering both in-person attendance in Italy and a virtual participation option for those who cannot travel. Whether you are a crop scientist focusing on soil microorganisms or a livestock farmer interested in digital tracking, this event provides the roadmap for the future of your farm. Registration details and the full agenda are available through the official FAO events portal.

​A Final Word for the Modern Farmer:

In an era where climate variability and rising costs are the new normal, smart farming is no longer a choice—it is an imperative. By leveraging data and emerging technologies, we can move from subsistence to high-efficiency, sustainable agriculture. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the world’s leading experts and bring global best practices back to your local community. The future of farming is digital, and the time to get involved is now.

​Source: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)