AAB Selected for Technical Design and Economic Feasibility Study of Agri-Innovation Park Aruba
ORANJESTAD – Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and the Primary Sector, Geoffrey Wever, announced that, following a public tender, the Dutch company AAB has been selected as the contractor for both the technical design and the economic feasibility study of the Agri-Innovation Park (AIP).
This important step marks the beginning of the implementation phase of one of Aruba’s most strategic projects aimed at strengthening local food production and making the agricultural sector more sustainable.
The Agri-Innovation Park (AIP) is the core of the Agripreneurial Development Program (ADP) presented by the Ministry of Finance, Economic Affairs, and the Primary Sector within the National Action Plan 2023–2025. The initiative is specifically designed to support local farmers and professionalize commercial greenhouse farming in Aruba. The AIP will combine modern greenhouses, training facilities, and innovative cultivation technologies to increase food security and reduce dependence on imports.
Minister Wever, responsible for the primary sector, emphasizes:
"The Agri Innovation Park was established to offer our local farmers more opportunities. By investing in modern greenhouse technologies and knowledge development, we are building resilient food production for the future."
The project is being implemented in close collaboration with Santa Rosa (DLVV), the Directorate of Economic Affairs, Commerce and Industry (DEACI), project manager Elwin Groeneveld, Aruba Agriculture Development Company N.V., and the Temporary Work Organization (TWO) of the Landspakket. This partnership will develop a broader program aimed at strengthening all subsectors within the primary sector, including livestock farming, fisheries, and traditional agriculture. Each of these subsectors will have its own trajectory and action plan to stimulate growth and innovation.
The public tender for the contracts was held in July 2025 and was open to both local and international parties. The assessment was based on clear and objective criteria, including experience with similar projects, the quality of the action plan, and the multidisciplinary expertise of the team. While several parties submitted strong and creative proposals, the evaluation revealed that AAB's international experience and technical depth were decisive. Their proposal distinguished itself through a well-thought-out approach, global experience with agricultural development projects in similar climates, and a clear methodology for realizing the AIP within the set timeframe.
"The tender was fully transparent and conducted in accordance with the tendering regulations. I am pleased with the large number of submissions from all over the world and also from many local organizations in Aruba. This demonstrates that the Agri-Innovation Park project is attracting international attention. Consultancy firm AAB stood out with a strong plan and global experience with innovative horticultural projects," said project manager Elwin Groenevelt.
In the coming months, AAB, under the guidance of the Ministry's project team, will work on the technical design, economic feasibility, and financial and operational models for the AIP. The results are expected in early 2026 and will form the basis for the construction phase, which will begin later in 2026.
"With the realization of the AIP, Aruba is taking an important step towards sustainable food security, knowledge development, and economic diversification, a future in which local farmers play a significant role in strengthening the Aruban economy," according to Minister Geoffrey Wever.
About the Agri-Innovation Park (AIP)
The Agri-Innovation Park (AIP) is being developed as a modern agricultural hub where technology, knowledge, and entrepreneurship converge. The park will consist of a combination of polytunnels and Venlo greenhouses, equipped with solar energy, water storage, fertigation and climate control systems, training facilities, and a shared packaging and cooling station.
The AIP is intended for local farmers. The first phase comprises approximately 30,000 square meters of production greenhouses and will provide space for local farmers who will apply modern cultivation methods with guidance and training through the AIP.
The project explicitly considers the vulnerability of global supply chains and the increasing geopolitical risks that can impact the availability of food and raw materials. By increasing local production and introducing innovative agricultural systems, Aruba will become more resilient to disruptions in international supply chains and strengthen the island's strategic food security.
About AAB Netherlands
AAB Netherlands is a leading consultancy in the horticulture and energy sectors, both nationally and internationally.
With a multidisciplinary team of approximately 60 specialists in Corporate Finance, Technology & Engineering, Energy, Heat, Real Estate, and Spatial Development, AAB offers integrated and effective solutions.
Through its in-depth knowledge and close collaboration with leading companies, financial institutions, and government agencies, AAB contributes significantly to an innovative, competitive, and sustainable agricultural and energy sector.
About AAB NL
AAB is a leading Dutch consultancy firm active in both the national and international horticulture and energy sectors. With a multidisciplinary team of approximately 60 specialists in Corporate Finance, Technology & Engineering, Energy, Heat, Real Estate, and Spatial Development, AAB offers integrated and effective solutions. Thanks to in-depth expertise and close collaboration with leading companies, financial institutions, and government bodies, AAB makes a valuable contribution to an innovative, competitive, and responsibly sustainable horticulture and energy sector.