As part of SPOT Consulting Podravje, the focus was on practical solutions and innovations for sustainable development. The program included engaging workshops, where participants had the opportunity to explore excellent practices in sustainable food production and tourism.
AGRA 2024 was also an opportunity for a representative from the Development Agency for Podravje – Maribor to visit the vendors participating in the Food4CE project.
At the invitation of the Ministry of Economy, Tourism, and Sport, the Dobrina Cooperative, a key promoter of sustainable supply, had the opportunity to present its model of cooperation and support for local producers from northeastern Slovenia. Visitors were able to explore the offerings of farmers and producers, who enrich local tables with carefully grown products, contributing to a sustainable way of eating.
Daily tastings at the cooperative’s stand allowed visitors to experience the flavors of dishes prepared with local ingredients from farms in Podravje and the surrounding region. This direct connection with local products further enriched the fair experience and highlighted the importance of local supply chains.
At this year’s fair, Zelena točka (The Green Point) – another AFN participating in the Food4CE project – made a significant impact with its exhibition space. Zelena točka is the most advanced and digitalized in the region, organized also as a Living Lab, where consumers collaborate in experiments and research, as well as they can test new products, services and solutions. With the introduction of IoT and blockchain technologies they contribute to traceability and transparency of local food products, and also minimize food waste and loss, as surplus food is intercepted and used for added-value products.
One of the event highlights was a presentation by renowned chef Bine Volčič, who has developed a business idea at Monstera Estate, blending a love of food, nature, and innovation. His passion for sustainable food production and responsible resource management inspired many participants, who eagerly delved into his success story.
Furthermore, the team from The Other Agency guided partecipants through current trends in social media, emphasizing the importance of authentic communication and modern digital tools that help improve customer connections and brand recognition, particularly in the fields of tourism and gastronomy.
Practical information was also shared by the Maribor Chambers of Craft and Small Business, which provided insights into opportunities for obtaining grants for innovative tourism projects. Support for such projects opens numerous doors for growth and development for companies striving for new sustainable approaches and improvements.
AGRA 2024 was not only an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between farmers, entrepreneurs, and experts but also a platform for sharing knowledge and inspiring the continued development of innovative solutions that are essential for the future of sustainable food production and tourism in Slovenia and beyond.