University Coalition Aims to Identify Indoor Farming’s Top Challenges in New Survey
March 6, 2026 
Image via Adobe Stock
A group of six U.S. universities has launched a survey aimed at growers and operators in the indoor vertical farming industry. The survey’s goal is to gain additional insight into the sector’s current challenges and to help shape priorities for future research. Bringing together experts in AI, automation, economics, engineering, plant science, robotics, and more specialties, the initiative includes the following universities:
- Alcorn State University
- Cornell University
- Texas A&M University
- UC Davis
- University of Minnesota
- University of New Hampshire
The initiative will be led by Neil Mattson, a Professor and Greenhouse Extension Specialist at Cornell University’s School of Integrative Plant Science.
Challenges and Needs in U.S. Indoor Vertical Farming
The survey is specifically seeking input on:
- Artificial intelligence and automation
- Crop development
- Energy use
- Pest development
Responses are anonymous and will be reported only in aggregate, with the results intended to help the participating universities better align their research programs with the operational needs of the industry.
For U.S. indoor farming operations, to access and complete the survey, please click here.
