Agricultural pilot schemes to support generational renewal in the countryside

Agricultural test sites are social innovation initiatives designed to address the generational transition in the agricultural sector, tackling the ageing rural population, the lack of interest in farming and industrialised food production. Designed for entrepreneurs with no background in the sector, they enable a gradual entry into the industry with lower risks. Inspired by French experiences, their implementation in Spain began in 2018 through the Network of Agricultural Test Spaces (RETA), in response to the ‘young farmer problem’ and the need to rethink policies supporting generational renewal, as highlighted by the European Court of Auditors in 2017. These spaces are organised around a regional food strategy, adapting to the local characteristics of each area.