Since 2013, USC—through the Land Lab—has been part of the European team of the EI CAP Network | EIP‑AGRI. From this position, we help bring people together: farmers, advisors, researchers, businesses, NGOs, and many others working to transform rural areas. Our team contributes to the design and facilitation of networking activities such as focus groups, seminars, and cross‑visits between innovative projects. Contentwise we also lead Division D, which focuses on key socio‑economic challenges in rural areas, including generational renewal, employment, equality, and the promotion of the circular bioeconomy and sustainable forestry.

The EIP‑AGRI (European Innovation Partnership for Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability), promoted by the European Commission, aims to accelerate innovation by connecting people and strengthening knowledge flows across agriculture, forestry, and rural territories. Its work is based on an interactive innovation model that encourages hands‑on collaboration among professionals from different backgrounds. Its main roles include:

• Boosting networking between practitioners and researchers to exchange knowledge and spark innovative ideas—through workshops, discussion groups, seminars, and project cross‑visits.
• Sharing and showcasing innovation, publishing articles, newsletters, an annual magazine, and maintaining an active presence on social media.
• Identifying real needs on the ground and translating them into research priorities at EU and national levels—helping bridge the gap between research and practical application.
• Gathering and analysing information on Operational Groups and EU‑funded innovation projects, identifying synergies and opportunities for collaboration, and supporting the creation of new networks.

The EU CAP Network was created by bringing together EIP‑AGRI, the former European Network for Rural Development, and the CAP Evaluation Helpdesk (active during 2014–2020). Promoted by the European Commission, it works to improve the flow of information and knowledge exchange on agricultural policy and rural development across the EU.

It serves as a meeting point where administrations, researchers, agricultural professionals, businesses, local groups, and other stakeholders can share experiences, good practices, and insights related to the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

Within this wider network, EIP‑AGRI plays a key role in driving innovation and strengthening knowledge exchange in agriculture, livestock production, and rural development.