Identifying and mapping SFSC advisors in Europe

An article extracted the discoveries of D1.1 “Database of private and public SFSC advisors in the 27 MS”, by Universiteit Gent

 

Short food supply chains (SFSCs) have emerged as crucial components in fostering sustainable, localized food systems, connecting producers and consumers through minimal intermediaries. Recognizing the importance of advisory services in strengthening SFSCs, the EU4Advice project has undertaken Task 1.1, aimed at mapping SFSC advisors and evaluating their integration into national Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS) across the 27 EU member states. This article provides an overview of Task 1.1’s objectives, methodology, key findings, and implications for the broader EU4Advice initiative.

Task 1.1 sought to identify and categorize SFSC advisors—both public and private—within each member state. The goal was not only to establish a comprehensive database of at least 20 advisors per country but also to assess the extent to which these advisors are embedded within their respective national AKIS frameworks. This effort serves as a foundational step for subsequent project actions, particularly those aimed at enhancing advisory services and fostering collaboration among SFSC stakeholders.

Methodology and Approach The mapping of SFSC advisors employed a two-pronged approach:

  1. Top-Down Identification: Leveraging national databases, governmental reports, and academic studies, formal advisors were identified. These individuals, either employed by public institutions or operating as independent consultants, provide recognized advisory services related to SFSCs.
  2. Bottom-Up Identification: Informal advisors, often embedded within local communities and networks, were identified through stakeholder engagement, surveys, and partner consultations. These individuals, while not officially recognized as advisors, play pivotal roles in supporting SFSC actors through knowledge-sharing, facilitation, and capacity-building activities.

Key Findings Task 1.1 successfully mapped SFSC advisors across nearly all EU member states, exceeding the minimum threshold in many cases. A total of 764 advisors were identified, representing a 41.5% increase over the targeted 540 advisors. Key findings include:

  • Diversity of Advisors: SFSC advisors operate across a broad spectrum, including agronomists, business consultants, sustainability experts, and legal advisors. This diversity highlights the multifaceted nature of SFSCs and the wide-ranging expertise required to support their development.
  • Integration into AKIS: The degree of SFSC advisor integration into national AKIS varies significantly across countries. While some nations have well-established advisory frameworks that recognize SFSC-specific advisors, others rely more heavily on informal networks.
  • Challenges in Identification: Certain countries faced difficulties in identifying formal SFSC advisors due to the absence of a designated advisory role within their AKIS. In these cases, informal advisors and innovation support service providers played a crucial role in bridging the gap.

Implications and Next Steps The findings from Task 1.1 underscore the need for enhanced recognition and support for SFSC advisors within AKIS structures. The data gathered will inform future EU4Advice initiatives, including:

  • Developing training and capacity-building programs to strengthen the competencies of both formal and informal SFSC advisors.
  • Facilitating cross-border collaboration to enable knowledge exchange and best practice sharing among SFSC advisors.
  • Advocating for policy reforms that formally integrate SFSC advisory roles within national AKIS frameworks.

In conclusion, Task 1.1 has provided a crucial foundation for advancing SFSC advisory services across Europe. By systematically identifying and mapping advisors, the EU4Advice project has laid the groundwork for a more cohesive and supportive advisory ecosystem. The next steps will focus on leveraging this database to enhance advisor capacity, promote collaboration, and ultimately, foster more resilient and sustainable SFSCs throughout the EU.