From 4–6 November 2025, PREPARE took part in the Organic Innovation Days 2025, held in Brussels and organised by TP Organics and CORE Organic. The event brought together leading stakeholders, researchers, policymakers, and civil society representatives to exchange knowledge and discuss future directions for innovation in the organic and sustainable food sectors.
The Organic Innovation Days included several key sub-events: the TP Organics Stakeholder Forum, the OrganicTargets4EU Final Conference, and the CORE Organic Pleiades Network Workshop and Governing Board Meeting.
PREPARE was represented by Secretary General Miodrag Matavulj, who actively participated in the discussions and meetings. The sessions provided an opportunity to reflect on recent achievements, strengthen partnerships, and identify next steps for advancing research and innovation in organic agriculture and food systems.
From PREPARE’s perspective, the event was particularly significant as the network is in the process of becoming a member of TP Organics, one of 35 European Technology Platforms officially recognised by the European Commission. TP Organics plays a crucial role in shaping research and innovation agendas in the organic sector at both EU and national levels. Through this collaboration, PREPARE aims to enhance its engagement in European innovation activities, expand its network, and ensure that rural civil society continues to play an active role in shaping sustainable food and farming systems.
During the meetings, Mr. Matavulj also promoted the 6th ERP Declaration from Inverurie and presented PREPARE’s policy proposals related to the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). These discussions included exchanges with DG AGRI officials and other key stakeholders attending the events.
The week in Brussels offered a valuable opportunity for knowledge exchange, partnership-building, and dialogue on how to strengthen the role of rural communities in innovation and sustainability transitions.
