The Glasshouse Innovation Consortium (GIC) works at the intersection of research, innovation and industry, helping organisations across protected horticulture and controlled environment agriculture turn ideas into practical solutions. Through specialist expertise, collaborative partnerships and access to cutting-edge facilities, we support the development, testing, adoption and commercialisation of technologies that drive productivity, sustainability and growth across the sector.
We offer:
Research, testing and innovation
We provide contract research and independent technical evaluation to help businesses develop, test and commercialise new technologies for protected horticulture and controlled environment agriculture. Our services include proof-of-concept trials, product and prototype assessment, technology benchmarking, data analysis and feasibility studies, supported by our dedicated mini-greenhouse research platform and demonstration facilities.
Funding and project development
We support organisations in identifying funding opportunities and developing high-quality collaborative projects. Our expertise includes grant writing, consortium building, project design and management, and support with programmes such as Innovate UK, UKRI and DEFRA. We also help businesses develop innovation strategies and secure the partnerships needed to scale new products and services.
Technology adoption and systems integration
We help businesses successfully adopt and integrate new technologies into commercial production systems. Our support includes assessing technology readiness, identifying implementation challenges, facilitating pilot projects and demonstrations, and developing practical adoption roadmaps. We also provide guidance on accessing innovation funding and support programmes to enable successful deployment and long-term impact.
Consultancy and Technical Advice
Our specialist consultancy services provide independent advice on greenhouse technologies, crop production systems and innovation adoption. We undertake technical reviews, feasibility studies and business case development, supporting strategic planning, investment decisions and the implementation of technologies that improve productivity, sustainability and resilience.
Market intelligence and commercial support
We provide market intelligence and commercial insight to support informed decision-making and business growth. Our services include sector analysis, competitor reviews, commercial feasibility assessments, supply chain mapping and horizon scanning. We also produce bespoke reports and evidence to support investment decisions, market entry strategies and the commercialisation of innovative products and technologies.
Policy and Public Affairs Support
We help translate scientific and industry evidence into clear, accessible information for policymakers, investors and stakeholders. Our support includes policy briefs, evidence reviews, consultation responses and strategic reports, alongside stakeholder engagement and facilitation activities that strengthen regional development, place-based innovation and informed decision-making across the sector.
Networking and knowledge exchange
The GIC connects businesses, growers, technology providers, researchers and policymakers through a growing network of collaborators and partners. We facilitate workshops, innovation forums and industry roundtables that encourage knowledge exchange, collaborative problem-solving and the development of strategic partnerships and innovation ecosystems across the protected horticulture supply chain.
Education, training and workforce development
We deliver bespoke training and professional development opportunities designed to build skills across the sector. Our programmes include short courses, commercial trial design, data analysis training, internships and industry-led research projects, alongside workforce development, knowledge transfer activities and continuing professional development opportunities for growers, technical teams and innovation professionals.
Our work, our impact
The Greenhouse Innovation Consortium is committed to delivering practical solutions and meaningful outcomes for businesses, growers, technology providers and the wider sector. Through collaborative research, technology development, knowledge exchange and innovation support, we help organisations address real-world challenges and create new opportunities. Explore our case studies to see how our projects, partnerships and expertise are driving innovation, improving productivity and delivering lasting impact across protected horticulture and controlled environment agriculture.
Find our impact here