CAP Network Ireland were invited to a National (CAP) Networking for Innovation workshop organised by the European CAP Network in Tallinn, Estonia at the end of November 2023.
The aim of the event was to provide space for national CAP Networks, together with other participants, to exchange ideas and share approaches, tools and activities that can support a well-functioning agricultural knowledge and innovation system (AKIS).
The future of CAP will see an increase of innovation and the involvement of farmers – and with AKIS at the heart of the innovation ecosystem, these systems will be key to enhancing knowledge flows. Several innovative ideas were presented by national CAP Networks including establishing an Innovation Market, Knowledge Hubs, Thematic Deep Dives, and specific Innovation Brokers.
An update was provided on EU Farm Book and its use a tool to drive innovation and collaboration in this space. Further discussions concentrated on strengthening connections between EIP Operational Groups and Horizon Europe.
There was no shortage of interesting ideas on what has worked in countries across Europe to support knowledge flows in agricultural systems, through presentations and discussions but also brainstorming activities, with plenty of time for networking in between.
Attendees included individuals from Network Support Units, Managing Authorities and National Contact Points for Horizon Europe as well as those sharing insights into AKIS related multi-actor projects and coordinators of thematic networks.
A full event report is expected, but in the meantime further information about the National Networking for Innovation workshop, including recordings of the presentations, can be found here.