U.S.–Qatar Program · 2026–2027
Future Food Systems
Building partnerships in artificial intelligence, sustainable agriculture and food security.
Turning agricultural innovation into practical collaboration
Future Food Systems is a U.S. Embassy–funded program bringing together experts, businesses, researchers and decision-makers from the United States and Qatar. The program will explore how emerging technologies and sustainable practices can strengthen agriculture and food security in Qatar.
Through focused discussions and working sessions, participants will share experience, examine practical applications and identify opportunities for continued U.S.–Qatar collaboration.
Program at a glance
Five connected sessions will move from shared context to practical innovation and a forward-looking dialogue.
Opening Forum
Introductions to U.S. and Qatari agriculture, emerging technologies and shared food-security priorities. 8:30 am–12:00 pm.
Innovation Session 1
Practical applications of AI, robotics and data-driven agriculture. Approximately 11:00 am–2:00 pm.
Innovation Session 2
Technology, production systems and opportunities for collaboration. Approximately 11:00 am–2:00 pm.
Food Systems & Society Dialogue
Exploring the connections between food production, communities and resilient food systems. Approximately 11:00 am–2:00 pm.
Executive Roundtable & Closing
A focused discussion for decision-makers to identify priorities and next steps. 8:30 am–12:00 pm.
All sessions are planned at InterContinental Doha. Session timings and details may be updated as the program develops.
Who will take part
The program is designed to connect people working across the food and agriculture ecosystem, including public-sector leaders, researchers, technology providers, farms, universities and businesses.
What the program aims to do
- Share U.S. expertise and relevant innovations
- Connect technology providers with local needs
- Identify practical areas for collaboration
- Support dialogue on sustainable food security
Interested in the program?
Contact us for program information and participation enquiries.
Future Food Systems is funded by a grant from the U.S. Embassy in Qatar. The program brings together U.S. and Qatari stakeholders to explore new approaches to sustainable agriculture and food security.
Innovation in practice
Food systems, shaped by innovation
From controlled-environment agriculture to emerging automation, the program brings practical ideas into conversation with local priorities.
Program speakers
Meet the speakers
Photo: Four Growers
Brandon Contino
CEO & Co-Founder, Four Growers
Brandon Contino co-founded Four Growers, a Pittsburgh-based agricultural technology company developing autonomous harvesting robots and plant analytics for commercial greenhouses. His work connects robotics and AI with practical growing operations, helping producers improve the efficiency and accessibility of fresh produce.
Brandon is confirmed to participate in person in Doha.
Photo: Earthna
Dr. Raha Hakimdavar
Research Professor, The Earth Commons; Senior Advisor to the Deans, Georgetown University in Qatar and The Earth Commons
Dr. Hakimdavar is a hydrologist and science policy expert whose work spans water security, Earth observation and sustainability. Her research includes water and food security in the Middle East, connecting science and policy with practical approaches to environmental resilience.
Photo: VCUarts Qatar
Isabella Rossen
Head of Programs, Qatar Museums
Isabella Rossen is a sociologist, researcher and program developer focused on urban development, heritage, public spaces and placemaking. At Qatar Museums, she develops public programs that connect researchers, policymakers, designers and artists.
Photo: Earthna
Dr. Guillaume de Vaulx
Researcher in Islamic heritage and Arabian Peninsula agriculture
His research explores nature in the Islamic heritage and agriculture across the Arabian Peninsula. His work includes intelligence reports on water security and agrifood systems. His 2026 books include Cosmic and Animal Piety in Islam and What is agriculture? (in French).
More speaker profiles will be added as the program develops.
Get in touch
Interested in the program?
Use the contact form to ask about program information or participation. Please mention “Future Food Systems” in your message.
Send an enquiry