Rewiring the Future of Agriculture: Reflections from the Annual Event

On May 9th, the REWIRE consortium gathered at The Hague University of Applied Sciences to share and reflect on the progress made. The annual event brought together researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and students from across the consortium to exchange and synthesise insights.

One theme that emerged strongly at the event was the need to move beyond coincidence and personal connections. Innovative collaborations often happen simply because “everyone knows everyone.” While trust is important, this informal way of working also limits who gets involved and which ideas take root. REWIRE is developing tools like network maps and recommender systems—that help reveal who’s already active in agrifood innovation, where the gaps are, and how surprising new connections might spark progress.

The project is also diving deep into how ecosystems can work better. Across places like Gelderland and Westland, REWIRE is listening closely to what’s happening on the ground. It’s learning how tensions—between private interests and public goals, between long-term missions and short-term survival—shape the way people work together (or don’t). Participants shared how hard it can be to translate national goals like “circular agriculture” into something practical and concrete. That translation takes time, trust, and tools—and it often requires redesigning the very systems meant to support innovation.

Policy was another topic at the event. Interviews with farmers, policymakers, investors, and others revealed a complex reality: everyone agrees things need to change, but views differ on how and when. Should we aim to adapt, transition, stop certain practices altogether—or something else entirely? REWIRE is helping make these trade-offs visible and discussable, not by pushing a single solution, but by creating space for dialogue and learning.

With learning at its core, the REWIRE team is building a prototype for an online platform where all project members can share experiences, questions, and insights. It’s more than a website—it’s a way to strengthen connections and keep the energy of the event going year-round. And beyond the platform, the project is investing in the people who will carry these transitions forward: future “change agents” in classrooms and workplaces, equipped with the skills and mindset to lead from within.