Innovation, development and employment in the agricultural sector

IDEAS: “Innovation, Development and Employment in the Agri-Food Sector” is a project that capitalizes on the strengths of the agri-food sector in the cross-border area, which has not only traditionally been one of its strengths, but is increasingly showing great dynamism today.

However, on both sides of the borders, the sector is characterized by a significant lack of available human capital with the capacity to follow and adapt to the challenges of the constantly changing natural and market environment. At the same time, young, highly qualified professionals lack the technical and financial support to exploit their competences in the market. Therefore, the competitiveness of the sector is gradually losing its edge and significant potential remains untapped.

The project seeks to address these issues by promoting entrepreneurship for young highly educated professionals in order for them to create new sustainable agri-businesses.

The overall objective of the project is to identify, support and launch new businesses in the agri-food sector that have innovative potential and can become a multiplier of the region’s strengths. Based on the identified needs and priorities, IDEAS will focus on smart agriculture in both countries and on health and food safety in the Republic of North Macedonia.