Amid rapid urbanization and the escalating impacts of climate change, food security in major cities is no longer just a concern for the future—it is an urgent challenge of the present. Driven by the desire to address the issues of limited arable land, water waste, and the growing demand for clean food, Urban Farmers Pro has developed the VIOS FARMS model: a hydroponic vegetable-growing system housed within 40-foot refrigerated containers, capable of operating independently and flexibly right in the heart of urban centers.
Originating from the idea of utilizing compact urban spaces to create a closed-loop agricultural ecosystem, the startup underwent significant R&D to transform refrigerated containers into highly efficient farming units. Each VIOS FARMS unit can yield up to 220 times more produce compared to traditional farming methods, while using only 5% of the water. Beyond productivity, the system is designed to maintain stable output year-round, regardless of external weather conditions.
What sets Urban Farmers Pro apart from many other high-tech agricultural models is its flexibility in installation and operation. While conventional farms typically require large investments and fixed infrastructure, the container-based VIOS FARMS model offers a mobile solution well-suited for high-density urban areas with limited land availability. Additionally, the closed system eliminates the risk of pests and pesticides, contributing to the safety and quality of the produce.
At the P4G Vietnam Summit 2025, Urban Farmers Pro showcased the VIOS FARMS model in a dedicated startup exhibition area. This marked a significant milestone—not only did it attract attention from international organizations, but it also helped expand the startup’s investment network and laid the groundwork for entering overseas markets. To date, the company has secured several seed investments from domestic funds and has joined an innovation acceleration program focused on sustainable agriculture.
One of the key lessons from Urban Farmers Pro’s development journey is the importance of integrating technological solutions with a business model tailored to urban contexts. Instead of replicating foreign urban agriculture models, the startup chose to localize its technology—adapting designs to suit local climate conditions, consumption habits, and infrastructure characteristics. This has been crucial not only for sustaining the model but also for continuously improving it to meet real-world needs.
For other founders in the agri-tech space, the story of Urban Farmers Pro illustrates that innovation does not necessarily begin with complex technologies. What matters more is a deep understanding of the problem, designing a solution that works effectively within specific conditions, and continuously gathering market feedback to refine the approach. Moreover, actively participating in support programs, exhibitions, and accelerators not only helps expand one’s network but also provides opportunities to test products in real-life settings—thereby shaping a clearer long-term development strategy.
