"A workplace shapes the person you become. Being part of the HCC team has greatly deepened my awareness of the importance of stronger urban–rural connections and the value of supporting local food systems.”

”Keeping researchers informed is key to bridging the gap between research and policy, enabling evidence-based contributions to decision-making. Staying engaged is crucial. NRPPs in each Member State will shape funding priorities and determine how strongly sustainability and environmental standards are implemented in practice.”

“As an MAA proposal writer, think about the evaluators as partners in your process. Consider especially that at least one of the evaluators is likely to be a multi-actor expert with an interest in selecting and promoting the very best quality multi-actor project proposal possible”.

”I left Lelystad inspired by the energy in the room — the open exchange of ideas, and how quickly people from different countries and backgrounds connected around a shared vision for sustainable farming. The ambition to make it part of the climate solution was truly motivating.”

”Co Innovation partnerships can be effective catalysts for transformative change, provided scaling complexities are navigated, and enabling mechanisms leveraged adeptly. Our insights advance the understanding of scaling dynamics in co-innovation and offer evidence-based strategies for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers to bolster the impact of co-innovation initiatives in agriculture and forestry.”

”For me, this 'back work' in communication feels a lot like life at home in the countryside. Feeding the animals, fixing small things, or keeping the garden alive may not be glamorous, but without them, nothing works. The same goes for Horizon projects: it’s the careful, constant work in the background that keeps everything growing. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

”I find immense value and satisfaction in working directly with stakeholders, as facilitating these participatory processes is crucial for developing policies and strategies that are both relevant and impactful.”

”We call for more tailored opportunities for young people to remain in, move to, and establish businesses in, rural mountain areas. These could be aided via a reworking of the existing subsidies and grant schemes, or via providing opportunities for collaborations between young people and existing local mountain businesses.”