EU4Advice Promotes COREnet’s Call for Proposals: Lighthouse Projects for SFSC Advisors Across the EU

EU4Advice is proud to support our sister project COREnet as it launches a Europe-wide Call for Proposals for Lighthouse Projects aimed at strengthening Short Food Supply Chain (SFSC) advisory services.

Starting in April 2025, COREnet invites SFSC advisors from all EU Member States to submit proposals for projects that showcase or adapt innovative SFSC advising practices. This initiative will select 27 Lighthouse Projects (one per country) to act as exemplary models of advisory innovation.

What Are Lighthouse Projects?

Lighthouse Projects will act as beacons of progress, spotlighting how effective SFSC advisory services can improve marketplace performance, empower local food systems, and inspire broader adoption of sustainable, community-rooted practices.

Each selected project will:

  • Demonstrate a successful or adapted innovation in SFSC advising

  • Strengthen advisory impact at the national level

  • Foster peer learning and transnational collaboration

  • Contribute to COREnet’s growing collection of Golden Cases (a curated set of best practices and detailed references)

Objectives of the Call

  • Enhance the quality and reach of SFSC advisory services across the EU

  • Build stronger networks and peer learning among advisors

  • Support the exchange of knowledge and practices between countries

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants must be registered in the COREnet SFSC Advisor Database and can include:

  • Independent advisors

  • Cooperatives and advisory bodies

  • NGOs and institutions

  • Applicants must be based in an EU Member State

Projects should contribute to one of the following SFSC organizational types:

  • Farmer-centred initiatives (direct sales to consumers)

  • Farmer-Farmer collaborations (cooperative models)

  • Farmer-Consumer partnerships (shared governance and responsibility)

What’s in It for Participants?

Selected Lighthouse Projects will receive financial and technical support to cover:

  • Advisory services and mentoring

  • Workshops, training, and study visits

  • Collaboration with COREnet’s Golden Cases

  • Communication and outreach activities

How to Apply

Interested advisors can submit their proposals by completing this application form. For more details, download the full open call or contact COREnet directly at info@shortfoodshain.eu.