<p>At the annual conference of the Network of European Regions for Innovation in Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ERIAFF), European regions come together in Amsterdam. Not as isolated actors, but as a network working collectively on the future of agriculture, food systems and land use in Europe. This is where regional practice meets European direction-setting.</p><p>The conference was opened by Regional Minister Jelle Beemsterboer, alongside a video message from European Commissioner Christophe Hansen, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration in Europe’s food and land-use transitions.</p><h2>From regional practice to European collaboration</h2><p>Led by Carlo Verhart, the programme focuses on how resilient food systems are built in practice. Topics such as agroforestry, nature-based solutions and new economic perspectives for farmers and rural communities take centre stage.</p><p>A key theme throughout is interregional cooperation: regions accelerating innovation together and increasing the impact of European programmes.</p><h2>Contribution from East Netherlands</h2><p>Partners from East Netherlands actively contribute to the programme. Marjolein Brasz (Foodvalley) is one of the keynote speakers, and the Province of Overijssel hosts a breakout session.</p><p>An excursion further highlights regional practice. Together with Foodvalley (region and foundation), alderman Maud Hulshof (Wageningen) and companies such as Revyve, Natulatte, NoPalm Ingredients, Grassa and OnePlanet, the programme showcases how innovation contributes to sustainable food systems.</p><h2>More than a conference</h2><p>For participating regions and working groups, ERIAFF is more than a moment of exchange. It is a platform where knowledge leads to new partnerships and where regions actively contribute to shaping the European agenda on food and land-use transitions.</p><p>Interested in learning more about the East Netherlands contribution? Feel free to get in touch with Maaike Buchner (maaike.buchner@oostnl.nl).</p><p>ERIAFF Annual Conference 2026 | Amsterdam</p>

ERIAFF 2026 | European regions shaping the future of agriculture and food