Request for Proposal: Maximising Carrot Packout

Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) is a not-for-profit, grower-owned Research and Development Corporation (RDC) for Australia’s $16.3 billion horticulture industry. Hort Innovation invests around $154 million in research and development (R&D) and marketing programs annually to provide benefit to industry and the wider community.

Hort Innovation is seeking a suitably qualified, experienced and capable delivery partner for the project: Maximising Carrot Packout (VG24007).

The overall objectives of the services are to:

Year 1: Literature Review & Workshop

• Conduct a literature review and synthesise research on carrot defects and agronomy including the extent of each problem along with their economic impact.

• Identify research gaps and prioritise key R&D needs with industry ensuring analysis incorporates research, industry and commercial considerations.

• Assess regional factors influencing carrot defects and quality.

• Conduct a workshop to align research with grower priorities and to consider to what extent additional further R&D might increase profitability.

• Conduct a Stop/Go review after Year 1 to assess the need for Years 2 and 3.

• Evaluate logistics, timing, and regional carrot production cycles.

• Ensure resources align with trial findings and industry needs.

Year 2: Agronomic Trials

• Design and implement agronomic trials to address key priorities identified in Year 1.

• Evaluate and refine best practices through regional trials.

• Develop and deliver extension resources for immediate industry adoption for topics that do not require further R&D and for trial results.

Year 3: Regional Resources identified through the trials and findings from Years 1 and 2

• Create regionally tailored grower guides with trial outcomes.

• Synthesise findings into practical recommendations for growers.

• Support adoption of improved agronomic practices across regions.

Hort Innovation has prepared a Request for Proposal (RFP) document that provides background information, outlines the scope of services, the procurement process and the information required from interested parties.