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SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. |
Our Contribution to SDG 9
The Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra (SUA) contributes to sustainable industrial development and innovation through applied research, modern scientific infrastructure, technology transfer and cooperation with businesses and public institutions.
The university focuses on the development and practical application of innovative solutions in agriculture, food production, biotechnology, engineering and environmental management. Its activities connect scientific knowledge with the technological and economic needs of industry and society.
Research and Innovation
Research at SUA covers agricultural technologies, food processing, biotechnology, bioeconomy, engineering and sustainable production systems. The AgroBioTech Research Centre, established in 2015, provides specialised research infrastructure and laboratories supporting interdisciplinary research and cooperation with external organisations.
The Food Incubator, developed through the Drive4SIFood project, connects research with practical food-sector innovation. Its facilities support food-product development, process testing, training and cooperation with external partners. The incubator received official approval to operate as a food-production facility in April 2024.
International research projects, including CATALYSE, NENUPHAR and WATERGRID, develop or test approaches relevant to food safety, nutrient recovery and water management. These ongoing initiatives strengthen innovation networks without implying that all anticipated project results have already been delivered.
Education and Student Engagement
SUA prepares students for technological and industrial innovation through study programmes in engineering, biotechnology, food sciences, agriculture, economics and related areas. Laboratory training, research assignments, practical placements and cooperation with employers connect education with real production environments.
Research facilities and the Food Incubator offer opportunities to gain practical experience in testing, processing technologies, product development and the translation of scientific findings into applications. Entrepreneurship-oriented initiatives and international cooperation further expose students to innovation processes.
Public Engagement and Community Activities
SUA works with farmers, food businesses, technology companies, professional organisations and public authorities through applied research, demonstrations, workshops and consultancy. This cooperation helps stakeholders access specialist knowledge and evaluate technological solutions.
Research centres, professional events and European projects provide opportunities for knowledge exchange among academics, entrepreneurs and other users of innovation. The university's contribution is therefore not limited to campus facilities but also includes external cooperation and regional development.
Research Infrastructure and Technology Transfer
SUA maintains specialist research infrastructure supporting scientific activities and the practical use of research findings. The AgroBioTech Research Centre offers equipment and personnel capacity for university teams as well as collaborating research and development organisations.
The Office of Project and Transfer Activities (OPTA) supports research-project preparation, cooperation, intellectual-property protection and knowledge and technology transfer. SUA also cooperates with national and international technology-transfer networks.
The university's Proof of Concept funding scheme is intended to support validation, prototyping and assessment of the practical and commercial potential of research results. In January 2026, the Food Incubator brand obtained European Union trademark protection. Trademark registration protects a brand and must not be counted as a patent for an invention.
Key Achievements
- AgroBioTech Research Centre providing specialist applied-research infrastructure since 2015.
- Food Incubator approved as a food-production facility in April 2024.
- European Union trademark protection for the Food Incubator brand obtained in 2026.
- Institutional technology-transfer and intellectual-property support through the Office of Project and Transfer Activities.
- Proof of Concept funding mechanism intended to validate research-based innovations.
Evidence and Further Information
Infrastructure and Food Innovation
Transfer and Intellectual Property
Projects and Reporting