• "Focus Groups" are temporary and collaborative work teams that bring together rural stakeholders to discuss a previously defined topic of interest.
• The three new Focus Groups created by the European CAP Network focus on forest health, wool revitalization, and innovative energy alternatives on farms.

Innovation begins with conversation. Hence the creation of "Focus Groups" by the CAP European Network : temporary, collaborative working groups that bring together rural stakeholders (such as farmers, foresters, advisors, researchers, and others) to discuss a predefined topic of interest.

The European CAP Network's Focus Groups have become true think tanks where farmers, technicians, researchers, and other rural stakeholders sit around the same table to address the sector's major challenges. In these spaces for dialogue, innovation is not an abstract concept: it is a living tool, collectively built on shared experience and knowledge, and which aims to solve the challenges they face on a daily basis on their land.

Thus, the European CAP Network has just launched three new Focus Groups on forest health, wool revitalization, and new energy on farms.

Open calls and calendars

The 3 new working groups focus on the following topics:

1. Silviculture and Forest Health: New and Emerging Pests and Diseases : A group created to address the following question: How can European forests be managed in the face of new and emerging pests and diseases?

First meeting: November 19-20, 2025

2. Innovative and sustainable ways to strengthen the role of farmers in revitalizing the European wool value chain: aimed at enhancing the value of European wool, encompassing both traditional and innovative products, while establishing stronger links with industry and consumers.

First meeting: November 27-28, 2025

3. Innovative energy production systems on farms : This working group responds to the proposal for energy systems on farms aimed at energy autonomy for farmers and ranchers. And, of course, they support farm profitability and environmental objectives.

First meeting: November 18-19, 2025

All interested parties should submit their application by Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CET, using the following link .