WILLEMSTAD - As Curaçao continues to face challenges with food imports and rising prices, local agritech company CurHydro is taking major steps toward securing a more sustainable and self-sufficient food supply for the island.
Founded in 2018, CurHydro specializes in hydroponic farming—growing crops in water rather than soil—using advanced agricultural technology to produce fresh vegetables locally. With support from Green Assist, the company is now expanding its operations to meet the island’s growing demand for fresh produce while reducing dependence on costly imports.
Over the past few years, CurHydro has successfully produced fresh lettuce on a 300 m² site, supplying local supermarkets, restaurants, and catering businesses. However, the company’s popularity has outpaced its production capacity.
To meet demand, CurHydro has obtained a building permit for a six-hectare site and plans to construct a 1.5-hectare high-tech greenhouse in collaboration with Spanish manufacturer Rufepa Tecnoagro. The new facility will grow hydroponic crops such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, using high-efficiency systems with minimal water consumption.
According to President and CEO Shurhensley Thielman Quirindoongo, the expansion will not only ensure a steady supply of fresh, affordable vegetables but also reduce import dependency, create local jobs, and strengthen food security on Curaçao.
“Thanks to Green Assist, we now have a robust financing roadmap and a stronger investment case,” Thielman Quirindoongo said. “This support allows us to scale faster and deliver reliable local produce while cutting water use and CO₂ emissions — for a healthier, more resilient Curaçao.”
From September to December 2024, CurHydro worked closely with a Green Assist expert to refine its financial strategy, evaluate funding opportunities, and enhance the project’s appeal to potential investors. The collaboration included detailed financial modeling, market analysis, and guidance on identifying public and private financing sources.
With land secured, feasibility studies completed, and partnerships established, CurHydro is now preparing for the fundraising and construction phase. The greenhouse is expected to become operational within two years, marking a significant milestone in Curaçao’s path toward agricultural innovation and sustainability.
In the long term, CurHydro plans to develop all six hectares into a modern agricultural hub — a cornerstone in building a healthier, greener, and more self-sufficient Curaçao.
