Smart4Food Presented at ADRURAL Co-Creation Workshop in Kistanje

The Šibenik University of Applied Sciences participated in a dynamic co-creation workshop organised within the ADRURAL project, held at the Entrepreneurial Incubator Kistanje. The event brought together small-scale farmers, students, and key stakeholders from the agri-food and rural innovation sectors.

The workshop was part of the broader ADRURAL initiative, a transnational project funded through the Interreg IPA ADRION programme, which focuses on empowering rural communities across the Adriatic-Ionian region through innovation, smart solutions, and collaborative governance models. By fostering cooperation between regions and stakeholders, ADRURAL aims to address key rural challenges such as depopulation, climate change, and limited access to infrastructure and knowledge.

A key component of the project is the development of innovative tools and networks, including the Online Rural Empowerment Hub (OREH) and Mini Rural Living Labs, which enable local communities to co-create and test solutions tailored to their needs. These activities support knowledge transfer, strengthen local capacities, and contribute to more resilient and sustainable rural areas. (Keep.eu)

During the event in Kistanje, the University of Applied Sciences in Šibenik presented the Smart4Food project to participants, highlighting its role in promoting digitalisation and innovation in the agri-food sector. The audience included students of the university, local farmers, and representatives of DIH Agrifood, creating a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and networking.

In addition to presenting Smart4Food, the concept of a Food Hub was introduced as a practical example of strengthening local food systems. The concept was inspired by good practices from Drumshanbo, where the latest Smart4Food consortium meeting took place. The Food Hub model demonstrated how collaboration among producers can improve market access, support short supply chains, and enhance the visibility and competitiveness of local products.

The event clearly illustrated the importance of connecting European project experiences with local realities. By combining the strategic, innovation-driven approach of ADRURAL with the practical solutions promoted through Smart4Food, participants were able to explore new opportunities for rural development and agri-food innovation.