Andalusian agrifood cooperatives launch R&D innovation program

Cooperativas Agro-alimentarias de Andalucía has launched a program titled ‘Fomento de la participación de las cooperativas agroalimentarias en proyectos de innovación’ to integrate Research, Development, and Innovation (R&D+i) into the Andalusian cooperative sector.

Supported by the Junta de Andalucía’s Ministry of Employment, Business, and Self-Employment, the initiative aims to identify specific cooperative needs and facilitate their inclusion in innovative projects. This is achieved through technical assistance, alliances with knowledge agents such as universities and research centers, and the development of concrete proposals.

The program focuses on several key areas: identifying financing opportunities, fostering an innovative culture through specialized information, and helping cooperatives access support programs. The ultimate goal is to transform innovation from a perceived distant activity into a practical tool for improving processes, meeting market demands, differentiating products, and strengthening the overall competitiveness of the Andalusian agrifood sector.