FIT4FOOD2030 supported the EC’s FOOD 2030 policy framework. The main objective was to build a sustainable, multi-stakeholder FOOD2030 platform, mobilizing a wide variety of stakeholders from different sectors at the level of cities, regions, countries, and Europe. To reach this main goal, FIT4FOOD2030 aimed to (1) strengthen R&I policy coherence and alignment (2) build competences for food systems R&I, and (3) raise awareness. The established FOOD 2030 Platform comprises three interlinked structures: EU Think Tank, Policy Labs and City and Food Labs, which interact regularly to exchange information, learn from one another, and plan actions. To support the emerging platform current trends, policies, showcases and breakthroughs in food systems R&I were analysed. Some results of the project are the educational modules developed by the City Labs and research policy initiatives of the Policy Labs. The greatest achievement of the project is how it has already changed this system from within, by building and strengthening networks, raising awareness, empowering new groups of stakeholders, and establishing a new culture of collaboration. Worth emphasizing is the inclusion of new groups of stakeholders who have not traditionally been engaged in food-related activities, or who lack a voice in decision making, deliberation, and planning. In order to engender lasting and high-quality results, change needs to be driven by the energy derived from the well-informed engagement of a multitude of different actors joining forces in joint action. Herein lies the essential outcome of the FIT4FOOD2030 project.
