Congress
program
| Sunday, 18 May | Venue | Location | Level | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | 16:00 | Golf Tournament  | Kemer Country Club | ||
| 13:00 | 18:00 | Registration | ICC | Ground floor | |
| 16:00 | 18:00 | Event sponsored by  | External venue | ||
| 19:00 | 22:30 | ISF President’s Dinner (by invitation only) | External venue |
| MARKETS DAY | Venue | Location | Level | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 18:00 | Registration | ICC | Ground floor | |
| 09:00 | 10:45 | Opening Ceremony | ICC | ||
| 10:45 | 11:15 | Official Opening of the Exhibition | ICC | ||
| 11:00 | 18:00 | Trading Tables | ICC | ||
| 11:30 | 12:30 | Press Reception | ICC | ||
| 12:00 | 14:00 | Lunch | ICC | ||
| 12:30 | 13:00 | Channel World Seed – Sponsor | ICC | ||
| 13:00 | 14:00 | Value Chain Forum (invitation only) “Resilient and nutritious food and feed value chains: The role of the seed sector” | ICC | ||
| 14:00 | 14:30 | Channel World Seed – ISF “Harnessing the Power of Biologicals: Innovations and Impacts for the Seed Sector” | ICC | ||
| 14:30 | 15:30 | ISF Keynote: Building Bridges for Sustainable Growth: Trade, Inclusiveness, and Public-Private Collaboration in the Seed Sector | ICC | ||
| 15:30 | 16:00 | Channel World Seed – Sponsor | ICC | ||
| 16:00 | 17:00 | ISF Panel 1: Pathways to Prosperity: Unlocking Investment and Market Opportunities in the Caucasus and Beyond | ICC | ||
| 19:00 | 23:00 | Welcome Party | Hilton Bosphorus Hotel |
–
| INNOVATION DAY | Venue | Location | Level | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 15:00 | Registration | ICC | Ground floor | |
| 08:00 | 18:00 | Trading tables | ICC | ||
| 09:00 | 10:00 | ISF Hackathon (TBC) | ICC | ||
| 09:00 | 10:00 | ISF Panel 2: Climate Resilience Starts with Seeds: Our roadmap to Brazil COP30 | ICC | ||
| 10:00 | 10:30 | Coffee Break | ICC | ||
| 10:30 | 11:00 | Channel World Seed 4: “Legal seed practices – a win for the whole value chain” | ICC | ||
| 10:30 | 11:00 | Panel: Sponsor | ICC | ||
| 11:30 | 12:00 | Channel World Seed 5 – ISF – PBI | ICC | ||
| 12:00 | 14:00 | ISF Women’s Luncheon | ICC | ||
| 14:30 | 15:30 | ISF Panel 3: From COP 16 to Governing Body 11: What is the future for access to and use of genetic resources and digital sequence information (DSI)? | ICC | ||
| 15:30 | 16:00 | Coffee Break | ICC | ||
| 16:00 | 16:30 | Channel World Seed 6: Sponsor | ICC |
| FUTURE DAY | Venue | Location | Level | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 12:00 | Registration | ICC | Ground floor | |
| 08:00 | 18:00 | Trading tables | ICC | ||
| 09:00 | 10:00 | ISF Hackathon – Pitching and Announcement of Winners (TBC) | ICC | ||
| 10:30 | 11:00 | Channel World Seed 7: – ISF “seed sector’s contribution for environmental sustainability of agriculture and food systems” | ICC | ||
| 11:00 | 11:45 | ISHI annual members meeting (invitation only) | ICC | ||
| 12:15 | 14:00 | Associate lunch (invitation only) | ICC | ||
| 13:00 | 13:30 | Channel World Seed 8 – Sponsor | ICC | ||
| 14:00 | 15:00 | ISF Session: Let’s go fishing: Reshaping the ISF strategy 2026-2030 | ICC | ||
| 15:00 | 15:30 | Channel World Seed 9: ISF Seed Resilience Foundation Launch | ICC | ||
| 15:30 | 16:00 | Coffee break | ICC | ||
| 16:00 | 17:30 | ISF General Assembly | ICC | ||
| 16:00 | 16:30 | Channel World Seed 10 – Sponsor | ICC | ||
| 19:30 | 02:00 | Farewell Get-Together | Ciragan Palace – Kempinski |
Petkus Academy
Seed Meets Cutting-Edge Technology – Your Success Begins Here!
Did you know that modern seed carries an impressive amount of technology within it? From innovative breeding and genetics to intricate processing steps – every phase involves state-of-the-art technology. But the real key to YOUR economic success lies in using all these technologies effectively and strategically.
Welcome to the PETKUS Academy – the platform where we transform expert knowledge and cutting-edge technology into your personal skill set!
Our specialist seminars offer you more than just theory: You will experience the latest technologies in seed production firsthand, presented by selected experts who will guide you through the best application strategies. In interactive discussion sessions, you’ll also have the chance to ask individual questions and receive advice from experienced professionals.
PETKUS has always been synonymous with cutting-edge technologies for seed production – and the PETKUS Academy takes it a step further. We share our knowledge and show you how to successfully apply it in practice.
Take the next step into your future – with the PETKUS Academy!
Registration to participate in those sessions will open at the beginning of next year.
Thank you to 
to be the sponsor of these workshops!
Panels &
Speakers
Opening ceremony
Panel 1
panel 2
WOMEN's LUNCHEON
panel 3
panel 4
panel 5
CHANNEL WORLD SEED
Channel World Seed Studio
Chanel World Seed is ISF’s own live broadcast platform with a TV-style studio set in the Congress venue. It will air content to the onsite attendees (exhibition area) and the virtual audience via Channel World Seed.
This year’s program includes sponsored sessions as well as panel-style discussions moderated by Scottish agriculture commentator and Nuffield Farming scholar, Claire Taylor. Consult the Congress program for more information.
Social Events
Sunday Pre-congress activity
Golf Tournament
Get involved! Join the fun!
The ISF Golf Tournament sponsored by Incotec is the traditional kick off to the World Seed Congress week. It is the perfect opportunity for a morning of networking, fun and friendly competition. There is a prize of 5’000 EUR, provided by Incotec, for the winning team’s a charity of choice.
For tournament participants
The format is Scramble – which is all about teamwork and shared success and is perfect for all skill levels. Sign up today to secure your spot.
Location:
Kemer Country Club
- Date: 18 May 2025
- Location: Kemer Country Club
- Hotel Pick up: TBC
- Tournament: TBC
- Lunch: TBC
- Hotel Drop off: TBC
Registration:
During congress registration (don’t forget to email your handicap to isfwsc@kit-group.org after registration).
Price:
EUR 250 including green fee, lunch and transportation
Equipment rental:
A limited number of clubs, golf carts and trollies are available for renting.
Cancellations:
See Cancellations section.
ISF thanks Incotec for kindly sponsoring this event:
Sunday afternoon Charity River cruise in Rotterdam
In collaboration with Germains Seed Technology, we are happy to introduce a captivating new event on Sunday afternoon, that will give everyone the opportunity to come together for a delightful river cruise along the Nouvelle Meuse River in Rotterdam.
For this event, all participants are requested to donate 50€ that will be equally distributed among two deserving charitable associations, the Seed Resilience Foundation and Voedsel Bank, a dutch local food bank. Germains are kindly covering all of the cost of the event for attendees.
This is not just an event; it’s a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of Rotterdam, make connections with other delegates while making a positive impact in the community. Accompanying persons are welcome to join this event as well. Please register through the registration platform.
Program:
- Sunday 18 May 2025
- Activity: TBC
- Departure: TBC
- Return: TBC
- Donation price: TBC
Thank you to Germains Seed Technology who is kindly sponsoring this event.
Accompanying Persons Program
Welcome to Istanbul, where ancient stories meet the buzz of contemporary life. With its grand mosques and rich Ottoman history, Istanbul is full of treasures to discover. Start your adventure in this fascinating city, where the sounds of prayer blend with the lively energy of markets, and every corner has a new tale to tell. Wander through its timeless streets, enjoy the flavorful dishes, and explore the various areas that give Istanbul its unique character. Get ready to be swept away by the beauty of Istanbul and embark on an exploration that will stay with you. Whether you are passionate about art, food, history, or looking for fresh experiences, Istanbul offers a journey filled with excitement that will remain in your heart!
We are pleased to present the program that has been designed for Accompanying Person. All tours include transfers, lunch, entrances, guides, gratuity, and drinks allowance during lunch.
The fee for the 3 days tours is: EUR 750 (from 12 December 2024 to 13 April 2025)
EUR 1’000 (from 14 April 2025 to 9 May 2025 and onsite)
The tours are also available for Delegates, the fee for delegates is as follow:
- Monday, half day tour: EUR 250
- Tuesday full day tour: EUR 300
- Wednesday half day tour: EUR 270
Monday 19 May 2025
Istanbul Ottoman Vision
Explore Istanbul’s rich history with this immersive tour:
- Topkapi Palace: The grand residence of 25 Ottoman sultans, showcasing centuries of imperial history.
- Hagia Irene Museum (Pass By): A 6th-century Byzantine church, now home to the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.
- Nuruosmaniye Mosque: A stunning 18th-century Baroque-style mosque, one of the earliest examples of its kind.
- Topkapi Palace Harem Museum: Explore the private quarters of the sultans in the Harem section.
- Grand Bazaar: End your tour at the world’s largest covered market with 4,400 shops offering leather goods, jewelry, antiques, Turkish carpets, and more.
A journey through Istanbul’s rich Ottoman heritage and vibrant culture!
- Half day tour: 11:00 – 17:00
- Lunch included
- Price: 250 EUR for delegate
Tuesday 20 May 2025
Discover both continents
- Dolmabahçe Palace: Explore the opulent Selamlık section with an expert guide and audio guide in your preferred language. Capture stunning photos in the palace gardens.
- Çamlıca Hill: Enjoy a panoramic view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus from this incredible viewpoint on the Asian side.
- Pierre Loti Hill: Visit the historic café named after the French writer and admire the Golden Horn’s picturesque view. Take a scenic cable car ride down the hill.
- Walls of Istanbul (Pass By): See the ancient fortifications of Constantinople, built by Emperor Constantine to protect the city.
Golden Horn & Bosphorus Cruise:
- Sail through the Bosphorus, passing historic sites like the Rumeli Fortress, Maiden Tower, and Beylerbeyi Palace, while enjoying lunch onboard
- Full day tour: 09:00 – 18:00
- Lunch included
- Price: 300 EUR for delegates
Wednesday 21 May 2025
Byzantine Vision
Explore Istanbul’s Timeless Wonders:
- German Fountain A historical fountain in Hippodrome Square, gifted by German King Wilhelm II during the late Ottoman period.
- Obelisk of Theodosius A 3,500-year-old Egyptian masterpiece located between the Ibrahim Pasha Palace and the Blue Mosque. Your guide will share its fascinating history.
- Serpent Column This 2,400-year-old relic, originally from Delphi, was brought to Constantinople in the 4th century.
- The Blue Mosque Constructed between 1609 and 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I, this masterpiece of Ottoman architecture is adorned with hand-painted blue tiles. It is considered the last great mosque of the classical period.
- The Hippodrome of Constantinople Once the sporting and social hub of Constantinople, this historic square retains fragments of its former glory, including the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpentine Column.
- Sultanahmet Square A beautiful square, perfect for relaxing and capturing stunning views of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
- Hagia Sophia Mosque (Pass By) A magnificent 1,500-year-old monument built by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD, originally the world’s largest place of worship.
- Basilica Cistern The largest of hundreds of Byzantine cisterns, this underground marvel, built by Emperor Justinian I, features 336 marble columns covering 9,800 square meters.
A perfect journey through Istanbul’s history, culture, and architecture!
- Half day tour: 09:00 – 14:00
- Lunch included
- Price: 270 EUR for delegates
Venue
An ideal place for business !
The ISF World Seed Congress 2025 will provide many opportunities to conduct business in small or large group settings.
From the Trading Floor to the Exhibition area and Private Meeting Rooms, delegates will find exceptional meeting facilities that meet their needs.
During the annual ISF World Seed Congress, ISF organizes panel discussion on ISF key topics. These meetings are open to all ISF members and provide the participants with an update of what has been done over the past years.
These meetings also serve to set the positions that ISF will be taking in its outreach efforts to external stakeholders. Should you wish to make your voice heard, these would be the meetings to go to.
Congress venue
Istanbul Congress Center is a premier international venue located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. Recognized as one of the largest and most versatile event complexes in the city, it caters to a wide array of events, including congresses, conferences, symposiums, corporate meetings, fairs, exhibitions, concerts, musicals, and film premieres.
Conveniently situated with excellent transportation links, the Istanbul Congress Center is easily accessible for both local and international visitors.
Istanbul Congress Center showcases its contemporary and adaptable style. Spanning 120,000 square meters across eight floors, the center features a range of facilities to accommodate various event needs. Its state-of-the-art technological infrastructure and high-quality services make it an ideal choice for both professional and cultural gatherings. The center includes multiple meeting rooms, large exhibition halls, and performance spaces, all equipped with the latest technology and amenities.
The Istanbul Congress Center has seen numerous upgrades and developments to enhance its capabilities and stay at the forefront of the event industry. The improvements ensure that it continues to serve as a leading destination for diverse events in Istanbul.
Venue address:
Internet
Complimentary Wi-Fi will be available for all participants throughout the Congress venue.
Social Events
Welcome Party
A fun and informal get-together to enjoy local culture and network opportunities.
Date: Monday, 19 May 2025
Time: 19 :00 – 22:00
Venue: Hilton Bosphorus Hotel
Dress code: Business casual
Women’s Luncheon
On day 2, we are putting the spotlight on women in the seed sector to inspire leadership, effect lasting change, and create more opportunities for inclusiveness in our industry.
Date: Tuesday, 20 May 2025
Time: 12:00 – 14:00
Venue: ICC, TBC
Future Generation corner
Over the three days of the congress, we are offering a unique space for exchange among young professionals in our industry.
If you are 40 and below, don’t miss this chance to meet, mingle, and network in a cozy, casual environment within the Congress.
Date: Monday-Wednesday, 19-21 May 2025
Time: 08:00 – 18:00
Venue: ICC, Exhibition area
Farewell Get Together
It marks the official close of the World Seed Congress. A modern event, with seated and standing tables to enjoy a last evening together.
Don’t miss it!
Date: Wednesday, 21 May 2025
Time: 19:30 – 02:00
Venue: Ciragan Palace – Kempinski
Dress code: Business casual