Jordan’s agricultural technology sector has gained a new strategic asset with the launch of the Agricultural Innovation and Entrepreneurship Incubator in Irbid. The initiative, led by the National Center for Agricultural Research (NARC), is designed to support startups and entrepreneurs developing modern solutions to enhance the country’s food security and agricultural sustainability.
Quick Facts
- New agritech incubator launched in Irbid, Jordan.
- Project funded by the French Development Agency (AFD).
- Focuses on climate-smart agricultural technology and innovation.
Bolstering National Food Security
Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Al-Rawashdeh, Director General of NARC, stated that the incubator’s launch aligns with the royal directives of King Abdullah II and the priorities of Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision. The core objective is to strengthen national food security by building resilient and sustainable agricultural value chains capable of withstanding climate and economic pressures.
Al-Rawashdeh emphasized that the incubator will serve as an advanced platform to empower entrepreneurs and youth in the agricultural sector. It aims to help them develop tech-driven projects focused on digital farming, efficient resource management, and sustainable production methods. These efforts are expected to contribute to achieving relative self-sufficiency and improving the quality of local agricultural products.
A Hub for Climate-Smart Agriculture
The new hub, located at NARC’s Maru station, is positioned to drive innovation in climate-smart agriculture. It will provide a foundation for startups working on solutions that increase productivity while promoting sustainability. The launch event featured a showcase of early-stage projects already supported by the incubator, demonstrating how entrepreneurial ideas are being translated into on-the-ground operations.
Yves Gicquero, AFD’s Regional Director for the Middle East, highlighted the initiative’s role in supporting communities and empowering young entrepreneurs. He described the incubator as a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and building more resilient agricultural communities, praising NARC’s leadership in the sector.
The project is a collaborative effort, implemented in partnership with international and national organizations, including ACTED, Eco Consult, Action Against Hunger (ACF), Terre des Hommes, the Phoenix Center for Economic & Informatics Studies, and the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature.
About The National Center for Agricultural Research
The National Center for Agricultural Research (NARC) is Jordan’s primary institution for agricultural scientific research and development. It works to generate and transfer modern agricultural technology to support the national economy, focusing on areas such as water management, plant production, biodiversity, and livestock. NARC plays a crucial role in developing Jordan’s agricultural sector to meet contemporary challenges.
Source: Ammon News
