In this thesis, we analyzed projects of the European Innovation Partnerships (EIP) implemented in Slovenia during the 2014–2020 programming period under submeasure 16.2, aimed at developing new products, practices, processes, and technologies. The study provides a systematic review of project characteristics, including their value, duration, and partnership structure. The analysis is based on data from the Agency of the Republic of Slovenia for Agricultural Markets and Rural Development (ARSKTRP). The results show that over €13.3 million were allocated for the implementation of approved projects, with initiators and leading partners predominantly research institutions rather than farms, which still represent the largest share of participants. This highlights a challenge in the AKIS system, where initiatives often do not originate “from the bottom up,” leading to weaker connections between researchers and actual needs on farms. Although EIP projects successfully involve farmers, greater efficiency and practical applicability of innovations will require strengthening the role of farmers and their advisors in shaping project ideas and improving mechanisms for systematic knowledge dissemination within the wider farming community.
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