Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System in the Veneto Region: Thorough analysis through the lens of Regional Innovation System

Abstract

This thesis examines the structure and efficacy of Agricultural Knowledge Innovation Systems (AKIS) within the Veneto region, emphasizing the intersection with Regional Innovation Systems (RIS) and their combined influence on agricultural innovation. The research utilizes a systematic analysis of literature and case studies, including Horizon 2020, InterReg, and Life projects, to dissect the roles, interactions, and dynamics among the actors within AKIS. The first chapter lays the foundation by contextualizing the study, elucidating the aims and objectives, and justifying the structure of the thesis. Specific objectives include scrutinizing actors within the system, pinpointing best practices, and formulating recommendations tailored to the Veneto region's AKIS. Subsequent chapters weave academic and practical significance into the broader fabric of agricultural knowledge and innovation. The theoretical background is explored in Chapter 2, where the AKIS concept is dissected alongside the roles of various stakeholders. The chapter further explores international experiences in similar contexts and delves into RIS, discussing its definitions, roles, and types, and the interplay with AKIS. The third chapter offers a contextual analysis of the Veneto region's agricultural system, highlighting the import of AKIS in meeting the challenges of sustainable transition trends and implementing effective coordination strategies. Research design and methodology are detailed in Chapter 4, describing the systematic approach to literature analysis, the rationale behind the selection of case studies, and the methodology adopted for data collection through interviews. The fifth chapter presents an empirical analysis, with a detailed examination of the case studies' contexts, the analysis of AKIS actors' roles and interactions within the projects, and an exploration of success and failure points to glean lessons learned and successful strategies. The research culminates in Chapter 6, synthesizing findings to draw conclusions and policy implications for Veneto agriculture. Recommendations are laid out for AKIS improvement strategies, furthering partnerships, and addressing systemic gaps. Reflections on the research's academic contribution and limitations provide a segue into potential future research directions.