Co-innovation allows the collective creation of innovative solutions based on complementary skills and knowledge and emulation created by working together in a mixed group of actors. Such a cooperation starts with the bringing together of the best suitable actors. However, just grouping the right people is not enough to co-create. Participatory methods are needed also. They allow the facilitation of exchanges and ensure the expression of each participant - including trust building, respect, and clarity. Praticipatory methods are useful at different stages of the co-innovation journey, from the creation of trust in the group to the ownership of the results, via the co-construction of the innovation. The facilitator plays a key role and must have, among others, social skills that allow him/her to adapt to the participants and thus involve them in the best possible way. Maybe, this THE starting point for the transformation of the agri-food sector?!

This presentation aimed to challenge traditional research structures and procedures in the field of high-level agricultural research.