The Maize Research Institute – Knezha, part of the Agricultural Academy – Sofia, participated in the international agricultural exhibition AGRA 2025, held from February 18 to 22, 2025, in Plovdiv. At the exhibition (Hall 7, Stand D5), innovations in maize breeding were presented, including new hybrids distinguished by high productivity and resilience to adverse climatic conditions.

AGRA 2025 is a prestigious forum for showcasing innovations and technologies in agriculture, attracting participants from various countries and providing a platform for exchanging ideas and cooperation. The participation of the Maize Institute in this event is a significant recognition of its contribution to the development of sustainable agriculture.

Awards

The Maize Institute was awarded a diploma for innovative development for the hybrid Kneja 581 at the AGRA 2025 international agricultural exhibition in the Innovation Contest.

At the contest organized by the Union of Inventors in Bulgaria, the institute received a gold plaque for the hybrid Kneja 581.

Author of the hybrid Kneja 581 – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Natalia Petrovska.

Recognition and significant contribution

The awards received at AGRA 2025 recognize the significant contribution of the Maize Institute to the development of agriculture and are the result of the long-term work of the institute’s team, which continues to develop and implement new breeding achievements and technologies in agricultural practice.

Business Program

On February 20, 2025, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Natalia Petrovska delivered a report entitled “Producing Certified Seeds Together from Bulgarian Varieties and Hybrids of Field and Forage Crops.” The presentation was part of the business program of the Agricultural Academy – Sofia. The working panel topic was: “Unlocking the Potential of Cooperation Between Agro-Science and Business for the Development of Sustainable Agriculture.”