EU CAP Network Seminar ‘On-farm demonstrations for peer-to-peer learning & innovation’

• Representatives from demonstration farms and networks
• Farmers and farmer associations
• Representatives from EIP-AGRI OGs
• Representatives from Horizon multi-actor projects related to on-farm demonstration activities (e.g., living labs and lighthouse farms, thematic and advisory networks, demo farm projects)
• Representatives from agricultural schools
• CAP Strategic Plans Managing Authorities and National CAP Networks (who will be directly invited)
• Advisors and researchers

For any questions, please contact seminar.innovation@eucapnetwork.eu

Background information

On-farm demonstrations are effective methods for exchanging know-how and peer-to-peer learning, showcasing innovative and practical solutions, tools, and technologies to farmers and other interested actors. They serve as platforms for training and capacity building to implement innovations in practice. These demonstrations typically occur on demonstration farms, lighthouse farms, living labs, or experimental farms, and can also be set up as training sites within agricultural schools or research institutes.

Under the CAP Strategic Plans, Member States may grant support for on-farm demonstrations. Networks of demonstration farms on specific topics are being established as integral parts of Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS). At the EU level, R&I programmes—Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe—also promote on-farm demonstrations through living labs and lighthouse farms, which are important spaces for place-based experimentation, testing, and peer-to-peer learning. On-farm demonstrations are also used to promote solutions developed by EIP-AGRI OGs and Horizon-funded multi-actor projects, thus supporting the dissemination of their results.

The Study on outcomes achieved by EIP-AGRI Operational Group projects under the CAP highlights the important role of on-farm demonstrations in disseminating innovative outcomes and facilitating peer-to-peer learning. However, there are insufficient demonstration farms where innovation can be tested and showcased on a significant scale. This could be a major challenge to the wider uptake of innovation created by OGs. Moreover, the final report of the Strategic Dialogue on the future of EU Agriculture advises effective dissemination of skills and strengthening of innovation/experimental hubs (eg. demo farms) where farmers and other actors can learn and assess new technologies in real-life settings.

In this context, this seminar will focus on highlighting the benefits of on-farm demonstration activities as a key tool for peer-to-peer learning, regardless of the funding source (CAP, Horizon or other funding sources). The seminar will also promote the exchange of good practices, providing inspiration for setting up new demonstration farms, their connections and networks, and embedding on-farm demonstration activities systematically within existing AKIS structures.