Latvia will be directly represented in European-level discussions aimed at shaping future research and innovation priorities in the fields of agriculture, food systems, forestry, fisheries, and the bioeconomy. Inese Skapste, Strategic Manager for International Research and Innovation Projects at the Export and Innovation Services Department of the Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) Export and Innovation Services Department’s Strategic Manager for International Research and Innovation Projects, Inese Skapste, has been selected to participate in the SCAR-Engage program, which strengthens the involvement of European Union member states in the work of SCAR (Standing Committee on Agricultural Research).
Ieva Jāgere, Director of LIAA:
“For Latvian companies and research organizations to fully take advantage of European cooperation opportunities, it is important for us to be present at the very moment when future research and innovation priorities are being shaped. The participation of LIAA experts in such European-level cooperation networks allows us not only to keep abreast of new initiatives in a timely manner, but also to build contacts, represent Latvia’s interests, and help our innovation ecosystem take advantage of the opportunities offered by European cooperation.”
SCAR is a platform for strategic cooperation among European Union member states that works in collaboration with the European Commission and coordinates the development of research and innovation in the fields of agriculture, food systems, forestry, fisheries, and the bioeconomy. Its mission is to promote cooperation among countries, analyze future development trends, and develop recommendations for improving European research and innovation policy.
The SCAR-Engage program was established as part of the RefreSCAR project to help new members of SCAR working groups and task forces successfully engage in cooperation at the European level. The program aims to strengthen the involvement of countries—particularly those that have been underrepresented to date—in SCAR’s work by promoting collaboration among experts, the exchange of experiences, and more active participation in shaping European research and innovation priorities.
Participants in the SCAR-Engage program are selected based on an assessment of their professional competence, education, and experience. Program participants receive professional support for their work in SCAR working groups, an individual development plan, opportunities to build an international network and exchange experiences with experts from other countries, as well as support for attending in-person meetings.
Participation in the program strengthens LIAA’s involvement in European-level research and innovation cooperation and ensures direct representation in discussions on the development of bioeconomy sectors. This will enable the LIAA to keep abreast of European Union initiatives and development trends, expand cooperation with institutions and experts from other countries, and apply the knowledge gained in its work to support the development of Latvia’s innovation ecosystem and international cooperation.
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