Advancing Short Food Supply Chain (SFSC) Advisory Integration: The Progress of WP2 in EU4ADVICE
An article by Paula de Vera (COPA-COGECA)
The EU4ADVICE project continues to break new ground in integrating SFSC advisors into national Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS) across the EU. As the project progresses, Working Package 2 (WP2) has played a crucial role in defining competences, overcoming integration barriers and fostering a dynamic European network of SFSC advisors.
Key Achievements of WP2
Establishing Minimum Requirements for SFSC Advisors
Task 2.1 developed a basic system of selection criteria for SFSC advisers, ensuring alignment with national AKIS structures. A questionnaire was developed for EU4ADVICE and COREnet partners to define essential competencies, skills and target groups for SFSC advisors. Two expert focus groups helped to refine these criteria, culminating in Deliverable D2.1. Policymakers have shown interest in these developments, particularly regarding the role of both formal and informal SFSC advisers.
Identifying Key Success Factors and Barriers in Advisory Services
Task 2.2 focused on analysing the enablers and barriers for SFSC advisory services within AKIS. A series of four Multi-Actor Workshops (MAWs) were conducted in Hungary, the Netherlands, Spain and Ireland. These workshops involved AKIS authorities, SFSC advisors, researchers and end-users to assess best practices and barriers to integration. The findings contributed to Deliverable D2.2, which provides a structured framework for the successful implementation of SFSC advice.
Developing Roadmaps for National AKIS Integration
Task 2.3 translated the findings of the MAWs into roadmaps for integrating SFSC advisers into national AKIS. Each Living Lab (LL) formulated a tailor-made roadmap, which was tested through subsequent rounds of MAWs to ensure adaptability and scalability. Cross-visits between LLs facilitated the exchange of experiences and provided replicability measures, strengthening the network of advisors across several EU Member States.
Activation of the EU SFSC Advisor Network
Task 2.4 focused on fostering collaboration between SFSC advisors, policy makers and consortia through structured onboarding processes. Using the GAIN transition model, three types of ‘customer journeys’ were developed for consultants, policy makers and project partners. The approach was successfully tested in the Dutch Living Lab and shared with several European initiatives, including FOOD2030 and Cleverfood. Network expansion efforts included promotional activities beyond the EU, engaging stakeholders in Asia, Africa and the USA.
Challenges and Strategies for Overcoming Them
Policy and Structural Gaps
A major challenge has been the inconsistent policy support for SFSC extension services at the national level. To address this, WP2 has prioritised the flexible and iterative development of roadmaps to ensure that integration efforts remain adaptable to evolving AKIS policies.
Scaling and Digital Infrastructure Limitations
The lack of a single digital platform has made it difficult to connect advisors across regions. WP2 proposes a blended funding model to establish a centralised centre of excellence to enhance the project’s digital capacity and outreach.
Cross-Context Differences
Each Living Lab operates within unique national AKIS structures, requiring tailored extension approaches. WP2 has used localised evidence to develop adaptable frameworks that ensure relevance in different agricultural contexts.
Future Directions
As WP2 progresses, the following priorities will shape the next phase:
- Expanding the SFSC network of advisors: Organising additional thematic workshops and cross-visits to strengthen inter-regional cooperation.
- Strengthening the digital infrastructure: Developing an online platform for SFSC advisors to share best practices and access learning resources.
- Strengthening policy advocacy: Facilitating deeper engagement with policymakers to integrate SFSC advice into national AKIS frameworks.
Through these ongoing initiatives, WP2 of EU4ADVICE is paving the way for a more connected, knowledge-driven, and sustainable SFSC advisory landscape across Europe. Visit our project website and explore our public deliverables to keep up to date with our latest developments.