Report edited by C. Santini and A. Cavicchi
This study is an integral part of the IRPET-Regione Toscana joint activity ‘Effects of the interventions for young agricultural entrepreneurship’, planned for 2024 (Activity no. 2.2024), commissioned to IRPET by the Managing Authority of the EAFRD in agreement with the General Directorate ‘Agriculture and Rural Development’ of the Region of Tuscany. Authors: Prof. Cristina Santini (Guglielmo Marconi University and Laboratorio di Studi Rurali Sismondi) and Prof. Alessio Cavicchi (University of Pisa). The copyright of this study was acquired by IRPET, ‘Production Sectors and Enterprises’ area. The editorial layout was edited by Elena Zangheri (IRPET).
Entrepreneurship and innovation in the agri-food sector present numerous challenges and opportunities for young people and SMEs. Competitiveness in this sector is complex, influenced by climate change, sustainability, and digitalisation. With its rich agri-food tradition, Italy maintains strong competitiveness through innovation policies and its connection to local territories. Young entrepreneurs are emerging as key figures, bringing new skills and a particular focus on sustainability. Although they still represent a small percentage of the total, their contribution is essential for generational turnover and innovation. The European Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) supports innovation in agriculture by promoting research, training, and consulting. This system facilitates the diffusion of innovations through a network of public and private actors. In recent years, various tools and methods for co-creating innovation have been developed, such as collaboration platforms and participatory research projects, in which universities can play an important role. In Tuscany, several regional initiatives, such as the program, support business innovation and competitiveness through funding and specific calls for proposals.
Young entrepreneurs are emerging as key figures, bringing new skills and a focus on sustainability. Although they still represent a small percentage of the total, their contribution is essential for generational change and innovation.
Innovation in agriculture is supported by the European Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS), which promotes research, training and advice. This system facilitates the dissemination of innovations through a network of public and private actors.
In recent years, various tools and methods for co-creating innovation have been developed, such as collaborative platforms and participatory research projects in which the university can play an important role. In Tuscany, several regional initiatives such as the program support business innovation and competitiveness through specific funding and calls for proposals.
