GROWING SUSSEX
Advancing technology and data driven decision making in food, drink and plant production

ABOUT THE PROJECT

GROWING SUSSEX:
innovation to transform food, wine and plant production using digital technologies 

Growing Sussex is an exciting project to co-develop and showcase foundational technology use cases, using 5G, IoT and AI with telecoms and technology partners, education centres and commercial producers.

The use cases will test how digital technology and applications using devices such as sensors, monitors, drones and cameras can develop future farming and growing practices. 

These successful implementations can increase sustainable food, drink and plant productivity helping to achieve food security, reduce carbon and maximise energy efficiency.

Decorative image showing a large “5G” text overlay on a rural landscape with digital wireframe lines and glowing grid patterns, symbolizing advanced technology and connectivity in smart farming.
Integration of advanced wireless technology
Fostering the next generation of growers
Decorative image showing a rural landscape with digital wireframe lines and glowing grid patterns, symbolizing advanced technology and connectivity in smart farming.
Creating a scalable model for larger adoption
A person in a greenhouse leans over a planting tray, carefully placing seeds in soil while surrounded by small pots, plants, and gardening tools. The word “IoT” (Internet of Things) is overlaid in large translucent letters, suggesting the integration of technology with agriculture.
Enabling sustainable food

Growing Sussex explores the integration of advanced wireless technology in growing practices improving productivity, yields and profitability.

By putting digital education front and centre, a highly qualified, digitally skilled workforce can utilise tools and skills to transform local businesses enabling them to thrive in the digital age.

about the project

THE IMPACT

Data driven decision making supporting food and drink growing practice

We will create a model of 5G adoption that is repeatable in growing sector locations across the UK in ‘real life’ growing environments. This will enable British Growers to produce food and drink more efficiently and sustainably in line with the Government’s Food Strategy.

A stylized icon of a green crop field made of repeating curved lines, with a few red curves standing out—symbolizing improved efficiency and monitoring in food production, highlighting the role of technology in ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture.
Food security and efficient processes

Implementation of AI and 5G technologies leads to more efficient food production, contributing to food security and promoting sustainable farming practices.

A simplified icon showing a green gear with a central circle, representing technology and industry, alongside a red sparkle symbol, suggesting innovation and improvement—symbolizing economic growth and job creation through digital and technological advancements in agriculture.
Economic Growth and Job Creation

The initiative supports economic development by creating new jobs and upskilling the workforce in digital and technological competentices relevant to modern agriculture.

A red “CO₂” text next to a green downward arrow on a dark background, symbolizing the reduction of carbon emissions through the use of advanced, energy-efficient technologies.
Carbon footprint Reduction

Advanced technologies help reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, aligning with environmental goals and regulations.

A red solid circle surrounded by green outlined circles arranged in a grid on a dark background, symbolizing a central successful model that can be scaled and replicated across broader agricultural settings
Scalable Model for larger Adoption

By demonstrating tangible benefits, Growing Sussex provides a replicable model for 5G adoption in agriculture across the UK, accommodating various agricultural practices and regional needs.

PARTNERSHIPS

Strong partnerships for lasting and resilient change

Growing Sussex partners with industry leaders, technology providers and local producers to drive a new era of sustainable farming.

Putting education at the heart of our approach will ensure the workforce is expectant of using technology and data driven decision making in the workplace, be it glass house, field or vineyard.

News and events

Stay informed on the latest news and insights from Growing Sussex.

A group of people inside a large indoor greenhouse. One person in pointing towards the top of the structure.
A worker walking down two rows of tomato vines
Partner News

The Green House Sussex Goes Live

18/12/2025
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Workers in a vineyard, with the text 'Insight' overlaid
Insights

Insight: How can rural communities benefit from 5G private networks?

15/12/2025
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Four students in hazmat suits gather around a trainee tomato grower in a Hi-Viz jacket looking at his mobile phone. They are situated in a large glasshouse full of tomato plants.
Partner News

Students Tour Growing Sussex Sites

26/11/2025
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Vineyard background blurred with students and tractor sharp in the forefront with the word Insights overlaid
Insights

Insight: Engaging Landowners in 5G Innovation

05/11/2025
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Jo Furber, Growing Sussex Communications Manager presenting at Connected Britain
Press release

Growing Sussex film premieres at Connected Britain

06/10/2025
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Paul Burry, Head of Learning at Brinsbury College, standing in the Cattle Shed surrounded by cows
Partner News

Brinsbury College Site Goes Live

29/09/2025
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Partner News

Plumpton College Site Goes Live 

29/08/2025
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Worker using technology within a glasshouse full of strawberries
Press release

Growing Sussex Project Featured by South East Business Magazine

21/08/2025
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READ ALL NEWS AND INSIGHTS
Decorative image showing a rural landscape with digital wireframe lines and glowing grid patterns, symbolizing advanced technology and connectivity in smart farming.

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growing sussex

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