Following an iterative and multi-actor approach, an open knowledge base is being developed based on; 3 versions of a definition for the DE4FS and the conceptual framework, validated with a large range of stakeholders from many disciplines and roles and through collaboration with the 9 case studies and key stakeholders. To make sure that the knowledge base does not only concern economic and technological aspects of the DE4FS, environmental, ethical, legal and societal aspects (ELSA) such as fairness, inclusiveness and the quality of human and social life are also being researched in the form of literature reviews. Nine 90-minute interviews were conducted for the nine case studies to explore Ethical, Legal, and Societal Aspects (ELSA) of key DE4FS technologies. Preliminary findings reveal strong links to conceptual frameworks, including critiques of the current linear, segmented value chain and calls for a shift toward holistic value loops aligned with open, interoperable data-sharing practices. Through literature reviews on business models, EU strategies, societal readiness, governance, and values, we applied the PESTEL framework to analyze drivers and barriers, validate insights through case studies, and deliver scientific outputs such as an accepted Springer book (draft by year-end) and cross-WP papers to ensure future contribution to the scientific community. The Monitor presents qualitative information and quantitative indicators to visualise and monitor the development of the DE4FS in several ‘dimensions’ of the DE4FS on a macro level, for EU member states and at the meso/micro level for case studies. In parallel, the project built the first models that support scenario simulations and impact forecasts. A system dynamics model, designed to analyse food system behaviour across global contexts whicn will be integrated with relevant data sources. Stakeholders have been identified and mapped into now 10 different categories. Through interview and scenario workshops stakeholders from the target groups were able to participate in key dialogues about their ideas and concerns about the DE4FS and provide their experiences with the DE4FS. Values, needs, interest and concerns related to the DE4FS led to 3 scenarios for the future DE4FS. Many activities took place inside the case study consortia, which are projects on their own, each aiming to share data from specific parts of the food system to represent to different types of stakeholders in the agri-food domain. Collaboration between the real life examples of the DE4FS (the case studies) continues to a better understanding of the concepts of data spaces and Data Sharing Initiatives (DSIs) and the interaction between case studies.
