Opportunities for testing innovative digital technologies by small and medium-sized farmers

In May, a funding program was launched under the GUARDIANS Open Call #2 – Test Before Invest, part of the GUARDIANS project (https://guardians-project.eu/). The project aims to provide small and medium-sized farms with the opportunity to bridge the technological gap with larger food producers through innovative and cost-effective digital solutions and technologies.
 

The aim of Open Call 2 is to select 9 farmers who will participate in a 3-month program to test and validate digital technologies developed through the GUARDIANS project under Open Call No. 1 - "Co-creation". In this way, these technologies will be evaluated in real-world conditions.
 

The program is designed for medium and small-sized farms focused on agroecological farming models such as regenerative agriculture, extensive grazing and alternative grazing management strategies and promoting pollinators in different farming systems. Selected farmers will be required to carry out the following activities:
 

Stage 1: Implement the selected technology according to the instructions provided by the technology provider. 
Stage 2: Provide feedback and baseline data on key performance indicators (KPIs) of the tested technology through short forms and/or questionnaires. 
Stage 3: Share lessons learned or suggestions for improving the technology in real-world farm conditions.

The funding is up to 10,000 euros per farm.

How to apply?

Step 1: Read the eligibility criteria, terms and conditions and the application process.
Step 2: If you meet the criteria, complete the online application form. All mandatory sections must be completed in English.
Step 3: After completing the form, you will receive a confirmation email.

The application deadline is 1 July 2026. The results will be announced between 7 and 26 August.

For more information and answers to frequently asked questions: https://guardians-project.eu/call/open-call-2-test-before-invest/