HCC Key contributions:

• Policy

  HCC co-authored the project’s key Policy Brief, which set out a Common Framework for Multi-level Capacity Development (CF4CD) to address Europe’s agricultural “innovation gap.” Drawing on its expertise in facilitation, advisory systems, and local engagement, HCC helped translate complex research into actionable recommendations for policymakers, programme managers, and practitioners. This work emphasised the importance of building functional capacities (such as collaboration, reflection, and governance) alongside technical skills, and positioned HCC as a leader in bridging field experience with EU policy design.

• Local engagement

  Through its case study work in the LIAISON project, HCC provided key insights into strengthening short food supply chains and territorial branding initiatives in Romania. By analysing the Nod Verde food hub pilots, HCC demonstrated how community-led initiatives can professionalise and scale up when supported by effective facilitation and innovation brokering. In the Aroma Muntelui mountain brand case, HCC highlighted both the potential of branding to add value to local products and the risks of limited farmer involvement and weak advisory support.

• Communication work

  In LIAISON, HCC led the project’s digital communication efforts through full content management of the project website, ensuring that outputs were accessible and engaging for diverse stakeholders. A highlight of this work was the coordination of the 15 European Rural Innovation Ambassador videos, from shaping the storylines to overseeing subtitling and translation, managing YouTube publication, and securing national television coverage on TVR. This achievement not only amplified the visibility of grassroots innovation stories across Europe but also showcased HCC’s expertise in transforming complex project outputs into compelling, widely disseminated communication products