Our partner Styliani Roufou explained how collaboration between European initiatives is key to fostering innovation and knowledge sharing across the Mediterranean
EXCEL4MED was presented at the IFSA 2026 Conference by our partner Styliani Roufou, representing the Region of Attica.
The IFSA 2026 Conference focused on the transition towards more sustainable and resilient agri-food systems in the face of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and increasing pressure on natural resources.
The conference, which took place in Montpellier (France) from 29 June to 3 July 2026, explored how collaboration between researchers, farmers, policymakers and other stakeholders can support innovative approaches, from sustainable farming practices to circular economy models and more inclusive decision-making processes.
Building stronger connections between European projects
Our partner Roufou discussed the value of creating synergies between European research initiatives, focusing on the collaboration between EXCEL4MED and the DIONYSUS project.
Through this joint perspective, participants learned how both projects contribute to sustainable innovation in the Mediterranean, while addressing complementary challenges and promoting the exchange of knowledge, expertise and good practices.
Collaboration between EU projects extends the impact of research beyond the boundaries of individual initiatives. The exchange of methodologies, experiences and results helps projects identify common challenges, avoid duplication of effort and accelerate the uptake of innovative solutions.
During the EXCEL4MED presentation, Roufou showcased our objectives, ongoing activities and key achievements, illustrating how cooperation with complementary initiatives such as DIONYSUS can reinforce research outcomes and create added value for researchers, stakeholders and the wider agri-food community.
Moreover, Roufou’s participation in IFSA 2026 was part of a staff exchange organised within EXCEL4MED and hosted by our partner CIHEAM-IAMM. These mobility activities allow our project partners to work alongside researchers from other organisations, exchange expertise and gain first-hand experience of different research environments.
