Embracing innovation in agriculture by peer-to-peer learning via on farm-demonstrations and cost-benefit analysis

The EU-funded research and innovation call “Embracing innovation in agriculture by peer-to-peer learning via on-farm demonstrations and cost-benefit analysis” supports consortia of companies, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, public authorities, and start-ups with a 100% grant for innovative agricultural solutions. The focus is on on-farm demonstrations in various EU regions and comprehensive cost-benefit analyses to evaluate sustainable practical concepts and communicate applicable results. At least three partners from different EU member states or associated countries must demonstrate a multi-actor approach involving farmers, advisors, and research institutions and provide evidence of their experience in the demonstration phase and the quantitative evaluation of similar projects. Personnel costs, material and travel expenses, subcontractor services, and financial support for third parties are eligible expenses. Projects may run for a maximum of 36 months and must be submitted by April 15, 2026.

With the funding objective of accelerating the dissemination of sustainable practices, the program strengthens knowledge exchange within the European Innovation Partnership Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS) and promotes the competitiveness and resilience of the agricultural sector. Evaluation is based on innovation potential, methodological quality of demonstrations, expected impacts, exploitation strategies, and the multi-actor composition. Project leaders are encouraged to develop benchmarks for selecting innovations, apply standardized analysis systems, and create learning materials. Interactive formats such as cross-border field visits and webinars ensure experience transfer among participants. Transparency and equal opportunities are guaranteed through open science principles and gender-sensitive approaches. Given the comprehensive funding and transnational approach, the call offers an outstanding opportunity to establish practice-oriented agricultural innovations across Europe and integrate them sustainably into market processes.