Castile and León activates its AKIS network: a collaborative drive toward a more innovative, sustainable, and digital agri-food system

The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Rural Development of Castile and León has launched its AKIS (Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System) network, a strategic initiative that embodies the European approach that fosters collaboration among all stakeholders involved in agri-food innovation: consultants, farmers, ranchers, research centers, universities, technology companies, and public administrations.

This initiative shapes an ecosystem where knowledge flows and is shared to achieve a more productive, resilient, and sustainable sector , with digitalization and knowledge transfer as its fundamental pillars.

The AKIS Network of Castile and León is launching with eight working groups , made up of more than 60 experts, who will address specific challenges facing the agri-food sector through direct dialogue and the active participation of the various links in the chain. This approach prioritizes active listening and collective intelligence as drivers of change.

Among the priority topics are:

• The incorporation of digital technologies and smart solutions .
• Strengthening specialized technical advice .
• Improving knowledge transfer from research to the field .
• Adaptation to the new climatic, economic and social challenges of the rural environment.

The AKIS model aims to break down barriers between science and practice, facilitating collaborative work environments where knowledge flows in all directions. With this network, Castilla y León is positioning itself as a leader in Spain in the effective implementation of this model, aligned with European agricultural innovation strategies.

This regional AKIS not only seeks to identify real needs in the region , but also to channel innovative solutions in an agile and collaborative manner, aligning with European rural development and ecological transition policies.

The key is to work in a network and in a multidisciplinary manner, promoting professional advice that is more connected to science and technology, and aimed at supporting producers in their transformation process toward more efficient and sustainable models.

From the AKIS Advisors Platform, we encourage all industry professionals to join this network, participate in its dynamics, and contribute to the development of a more innovative and competitive agri-food system in Castile and León.

On the AKIS Advisor Platform, you can find a direct link and all the information about the regional AKIS for Castile and León .