Evaluation of funding projects in VHA 16.4.1 "Short Supply Chains"

Short (food) supply chains have established themselves alongside conventional supply chains. They serve as niches for producers and consumers who are looking for an alternative to the conventional supply system. The strategic importance of supporting local food and short supply chains is increasingly recognised at EU level. It has gained new momentum with the Green Deal strategy "From Farm to Fork" presented in May 2020 – a strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system. In the 2014-2020 programming period, measure 16 was newly introduced as part of Rural Development LE14-20, which is specifically dedicated to cooperation. Sub-measure 16.4.1 of this measure 16 supports the cooperative development of short supply chains and local markets. The target group is small-scale marketers who want to achieve a better market position through cooperation. Three primary funding objectives are pursued: Firstly, the creation, professionalisation and optimisation of cooperation between farmers and involvement of commercial enterprises. Secondly, informing consumers about short supply chains and local food. Thirdly, increasing the added value for all participants. As part of the evaluation, four case studies were conducted on projects already completed under VHA 16.4.1 ‘Creation and development of short supply chains and local markets as well as supporting sales markets’ (SPB 3A, LE14-20).