In a commentary published in the journal Economic Geography, Koen Frenken (Utrecht University) together with several leading scholars in this field takes stock of transition studies and highlights how stronger links with economic geography can enrich the field. It shows how combining these perspectives helps to explain how technologies, institutions, and actor networks coevolve across scales,…

This recent paper by REWIRE members Sabine de Graaf, Iris Wanzenböck, and Koen Frenken (all Utrecht University) examines how the notion of “directionality” is understood in innovation policy and sustainability transitions research, and argues for a clearer distinction between actors actively giving direction and the broader systemic directionality that emerges through transformative change. By drawing…

A new study by Yvette Baggen (Wageningen University & Research) and co-authors examines how challenge‑based learning (CBL) can contribute to the lifelong development of professionals. By working with students on real societal challenges in multidisciplinary teams, professionals not only share their expertise but also expand it, developing skills such as self‑direction, adaptability, and reflection. The…

On March 13, 2025, REWIRE met at NewForesight to discuss the acceleration of transitions in the agro-food sector, focusing on the protein transition. This meeting brought together various stakeholders, including representatives from NewForesight, Greenport West-Holland, and the Advisory Council for Science, Technology, and Innovation (AWTI). The goal was to explore how to expedite the shift towards a…

As the REWIRE project progresses into its second year, the Learning Platform has emerged not only as a central pillar of our work but also as a dynamic process of co-creation and transformation. What initially began as a structural concept has matured into a vital mechanism for shared growth—shaping how we generate insight, foster collaboration,…

On March 18, 2025, The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS) hosted a gathering of REWIRE researchers for a workshop focused on three core themes: local experimentation and scaling, ecosystem development, and value network design. The event provided an opportunity not only to share progress and ideas but also to strengthen collaboration across the consortium….

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…

On October 15, 2024, we hosted our first research workshop in Utrecht. This workshop is part of a regular REWIRE research workshop series. This series will serve as a dynamic platform for REWIRE researchers and collaborators to share their work, exchange ideas, and tackle broader questions surrounding sustainable agrifood transitions. During the first session, the…

In December, researchers and societal partners in the REWIRE project came together at Foodvalley NL for a new session of the Learning Platform. This interactive meeting focused on a central question in REWIRE: How can we better understand and support complex transitions—like the shift toward sustainable, nature-inclusive food systems—through collaboration? Participants shared updates from ongoing…

A recently published paper by REWIRE members Laurens Klerkx and Matthijs Janssen together with Stephanie Begemann highlights that innovation policy for circular agriculture benefits from the active involvement of ‘challengers’—individuals and ure and Food Quality emphasized broad inclusivity to incorporate diverse perspectives, this approach often deterred challengers who felt their contributions were not effectively integrated….