Technological Corporation of Andalusia (CTA) presented the European project GEN4OLIVE as a best practice example in cascade funding management during a workshop of the EU CAP Network held on February 11–12, 2026, in Jūrmala, Latvia.
Within the framework of this event, Nathalie Chavrier, Senior European Project Manager at CTA, presented GEN4OLIVE, a Horizon Europe-funded initiative that demonstrates how this instrument can effectively engage SMEs in innovation processes. Through two open calls managed by CTA, GEN4OLIVE provided financial support to 26 SMEs from 7 countries, giving them resources to develop research and innovation projects focused on olive genetics.
During the session, Chavrier highlighted that cascade funding lowers the entry barriers for SMEs in European projects, connecting companies with actors from the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) and their end users. She also emphasized that clear call design and robust follow-up are key to its success.
About the EU CAP Network
The EU CAP Network is a forum created by the European Commission to support the Strategic Plans of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). It brings together national networks, administrations, organizations, researchers, and companies to share knowledge and best practices in agriculture and rural development. Additionally, it supports the implementation of strategic plans, innovation, and CAP monitoring. Within this framework, CTA actively participates in EU CAP Network events and initiatives, contributing its expertise in European projects related to the agricultural sector.
