The agricultural sector is facing far-reaching changes – from climate change and resource conservation to digitalisation and a shortage of skilled workers. To address these developments effectively, a sustainable knowledge and innovation system is needed that promotes new ideas, connects stakeholders and efficiently translates knowledge into practice.
In the 2023–2027 CAP funding period, the European Union is placing a clear emphasis on the further development of such systems. Member States are called upon to systematically strengthen their structures for the generation, dissemination and use of knowledge and to expand networking between the stakeholders involved. A thorough stocktaking of the AKIS system is a key component in creating the necessary transparency. It highlights strengths, gaps and potential, and makes it easier to understand the overall system and improve it in a targeted manner.
Against this background, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Consumer Protection (MLEUV) of the State of Brandenburg has commissioned the Institute for Rural Structural Research e.V. to carry out a comprehensive study of Brandenburg’s AKIS.
The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse structures, networks and knowledge flows within Brandenburg’s agricultural sector. The study analyses how agricultural businesses, advisory services, education, research and administration interact, where the system is already sustainable, and where it requires further support or new impetus. The results serve as a sound technical basis for the strategic further development of the State of Brandenburg’s AKIS and for tailoring the associated funding instruments to meet specific needs.
The study follows a multi-stage approach that combines qualitative and quantitative methods. First, all relevant actors, institutions and knowledge flows are systematically mapped. In addition to a comprehensive analysis of secondary data, guided interviews and an online survey of agricultural businesses and advisory service providers are used.
Based on this stock-taking, the performance and functioning of Brandenburg’s AKIS are assessed using a SWOT analysis. The results are reviewed, supplemented and validated in a workshop with key stakeholders. Building on this, potential and development needs are identified and concrete recommendations for action are formulated.
