D-LEAD – Digitalisation for the Next Generation of Agricultural Leaders


Project Reference: 2023-1-EL02-KA154-YOU-000144986


Event Dates: 1–6 June 2025
Location: Naoussa, Greece
Funded by: European Union (Erasmus+ Programme)


The Erasmus+ project “D-LEAD” was successfully implemented from May 31 to June 7, 2025, in Naoussa, Greece. Within this initiative, young people from Germany, Greece, France, and Spain came together to explore the digital transformation of agriculture and discuss the impact of youth participation on local decision-making processes. Germany was represented by 19 young participants who joined through ARSU ACADEMY GERMANY.


🌱 Partner Organisations

  • 🇩🇪 ARSU Academy (Germany)
  • 🇬🇷 Institute for the Promotion and Certification of Agri-Food Products (Greece)
  • 🇫🇷 Association Carquois (France)
  • 🇪🇸 Associació Globers (Spain)


🎯 Project Overview

D-LEAD was designed to empower young people from rural areas to actively engage in shaping agricultural policies and contribute to more sustainable and inclusive food systems across Europe.

The project addressed the increasing need to involve youth in defining the future of agriculture, particularly in the context of digitalisation and innovation. Through a combination of learning activities, discussions, and networking opportunities, participants developed their leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills. They also gained a deeper understanding of how agricultural policies, such as the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and the Farm to Fork Strategy, impact local communities and everyday life.

A central component was the Agriforum on Digitalising Policies for Livestock Farming and Crop Production, which brought together young farmers, policymakers, and agri-entrepreneurs to share ideas and co-create proposals for more effective and future-oriented agricultural policies.


🎯 Project Objectives

  • Promote Youth Engagement: Inspire young people to take an active role in shaping local policies and decision-making processes related to agriculture, food systems, and sustainability.
  • Strengthen Critical Thinking: Encourage participants to reflect on and critically assess existing policies and practices.
  • Raise Awareness: Improve understanding of European agricultural policies and their significance for rural development.
  • Develop Skills: Equip participants with leadership, communication, and negotiation skills relevant to social, professional, and political contexts.
  • Support Sustainable Change: Motivate young people to embrace innovation and contribute proactively to the transition towards sustainable agriculture.


👥 Target Groups

  • Young People from Rural Areas: Actively engaged in learning, dialogue, and community development.
  • Youth with Fewer Opportunities: Young people facing social, economic, educational, or geographic challenges.
  • Young Professionals and Students: Individuals studying or working in agriculture or related fields.
  • Youth Activists and Civically Engaged Individuals: Committed to sustainability, democratic participation, and resilient food systems.
  • Local Decision-Makers: Representatives of public institutions fostering intergenerational dialogue and cooperation.


🤝 Key Activity: The Agriforum

The Agriforum served as the flagship event of the project and provided a platform to:

  • Share experiences and best practices in digital agriculture.
  • Develop policy proposals reflecting the perspectives of young people.
  • Build European networks among young farmers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs.
  • Empower participants to advocate effectively for more sustainable agricultural policies.


✅ Project Impact

The project concluded in June 2025 and created a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Participants gained valuable competences, expanded their networks, and strengthened their commitment to innovation and sustainability in agriculture.

The results and resources produced during the project continue to serve as a reference for future initiatives aiming to foster youth participation in agricultural policy development.