'AgroSmart – Boosting Modern Sustainable Farming' supported farmers, agricultural cooperatives and agri-businesses in North Macedonia to adopt practical, modern solutions that improve agricultural production and business performance. Through a combination of sub-grants, targeted training and tailored technical assistance, beneficiaries introduced innovative technologies such as agricultural drones, GPS livestock tracking, robotic equipment, smart irrigation and fertigation systems, as well as modern processing and packaging solutions.

These investments reduced manual work, improved efficiency, optimised the use of water and other resources, and enhanced product quality and market access. The project also strengthened the capacities of beneficiaries to plan and manage modern agricultural operations and investments. By showcasing concrete examples of successful modernisation, AgroSmart encouraged wider adoption of innovative and sustainable farming practices, contributing to a more competitive, resilient and future-oriented agricultural sector in rural areas.

The project aimed to strengthen balanced regional development by supporting the modernisation and competitiveness of rural areas in North Macedonia. It focused on enabling farmers and agricultural businesses to adopt innovative solutions and improve their economic performance.

Specific objectives:
• Stimulated innovation among farmers, agricultural cooperatives and agri-businesses by supporting the development of modern investment ideas and business models.
• Provided financial and technical support for the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies and equipment that enhance productivity, sustainability and competitiveness.
• Strengthened cooperation and networking among farmers, cooperatives and local stakeholders, with a focus on inclusion of women and youth.
• Built the capacities of beneficiaries to plan, implement and manage innovative investments, including readiness for future EU funding opportunities (e.g. IPARD).
• Promoted successful examples of modern and sustainable farming practices and encouraged their wider replication across the sector.

• Increased awareness, knowledge and motivation among farmers, cooperatives and agri-businesses to invest in modern and innovative agricultural solutions;
• Adoption of advanced technologies and equipment by supported beneficiaries, resulting in improved efficiency, resource management, product quality and market competitiveness;
• Strengthened capacities of farmers and cooperatives to design, implement and manage investment projects, including improved access to future funding opportunities;
• Enhanced cooperation and knowledge exchange among agricultural stakeholders, fostering innovation and sector development;
• Improved resilience, sustainability and economic performance of rural communities, contributing to more balanced regional development.