Farmers and foresters from all over Europe are very keen to start up new innovative projects, since the European Commission has made funding opportunities available to set up ‘Operational Groups’. Inger Pehrson, Coordinator of the Innovation Network from the Swedish Rural Network confirms: “It is the first time that a farmer has the opportunity to receive direct support to develop an idea that is close to his or her heart. This will ensure that their voices are heard.” Unlike previous funding opportunities, farmers and other types of partners, such as researchers and advisors should be on board of the Operational Group. Inger continues: “It will be a challenge for researchers and advisors, to have farmers involved from the start and have an actual dialogue with them, rather than presenting results.”