As part of the aws Sustainable Food Systems Initiative (SFSI), aws actively participates in the EU project ENACT to develop sustainable food systems at both national and European levels. By incorporating international expertise, the aws Sustainable Food Systems Initiative is strengthened over the long term and the strategic anchoring of sustainable food systems in Austria and Europe is promoted.

ENACT focuses on three key areas of action:

1. Needs Analysis: ENACT conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the economic, environmental, and social needs of actors in the social economy sector. This analysis includes the need for digitalization as well as innovative approaches and best practices already successfully implemented in the industry. The goal is to identify specific challenges and opportunities for digital transformation and to develop practical solutions to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of social economy actors in the agri-food sector.
2. Strengthening Digital Skills: Another core focus is the development and implementation of an online course aimed at fostering digital competencies. The course also includes guidance on accessing funding and financing opportunities. This empowers participants to effectively utilize new technologies and drive innovation, contributing to the sector's sustainable and future-proof development.
3. Cooperation and Networking: A central aspect of the project is fostering cooperation and exchange among various actors in the agri-food sector, as well as with other relevant stakeholders. Digital and physical platforms are being established for this purpose, including regional stakeholder meetings, study visits and innovative formats such as hackathons and matchathons. 

These measures aim to strengthen resilience and digital competencies, while finding creative solutions to the sector’s challenges to create a sustainable and just food system.

The project is implemented by six partner organizations from Spain, Portugal, Lithuania, Belgium and Austria. ENACT is co-financed by EISMEA (European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency) under the “Single Market Programme.”

Project partners: 

• CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF BARCELONA  (Lead Partner)
• B.LINK BARCELONA STRATEGIC PROJECTS
• POUR LA SOLIDARITÉ
• MAKE IT BETTER ASSOCIATION FOR INNOVATION & SOCIAL ECONOMY
• AGRIFOOD DIH LITHUANIA
• AUSTRIA WIRTSCHAFTSSERVICE GMBH 

Project duration: September 2, 2024 – March 1, 2027