Project
Networking European farms to enhance cross fertilization and innovation uptake through demonstration (NEFERTITI)
NEFERTITI launched 10 interactive thematic networks of demonstration farmers in 17 countries. Each network included 5 to 6 regional clusters (hubs) that bring together demonstration farmers with other relevant actors (e.g. consultants, NGOs, industry, education, research and policy makers). NEFERTITI created added value through the exchange of both technical knowledge and knowledge on organising effective farm demonstrations between hubs and across networks. In this way, NEFERTITI improved peer-to-peer learning and networking among agricultural actors in Europe.
Research approach
NEFERTITI networks focused on 10 key themes in European agriculture, covering the animal production, arable and horticultural sectors and farm attractiveness. NEFERTITI networks linked already existing networks by organizing farm demonstrations at regional level and participating in so-called cross-visits at EU level, where farmers and advisers visit another region. A cyclical approach of preparing, delivering, evaluating and improving during 3 annual demonstration campaigns ensured continuous improvement of peer-to-peer exchanges and the effectiveness of the farm demonstrations.
Relevance/Valorisation
The NEFERTITI networks played a major role in the dissemination and uptake of practice-oriented knowledge and knowledge on organizing effective farm demonstrations. Technical practice-oriented knowledge, relevant for farmers and consultants, can be found on the FarmDemo YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdigVLNjyy5YrAdHl5G2frA). Lessons learned on organizing effective farm demonstrations were collected in a user-friendly way in the FarmDemo Training Kit (trainingkit.farmdemo.eu) which is an interesting source of inspiration for anyone who is regularly involved in the organization of farm demonstrations. An overview of demonstration farmers across Europe can be found on the NEFERTITI platform (https://nefertiti-h2020.eu/NefertitiPortal/#!/dashboard). In addition, the policy dialogues organized in the project contributed to an increased attention for farm demonstrations in the dissemination of innovations.
EU Horizon2020