European Innovation Partnership for Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability (EIP-AGRI): Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Agenda

Abstract

This systematic literature review synthesizes current knowledge on the European Innovation Partnership for Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability (EIP-AGRI) by analyzing 31 peer-reviewed studies published between 2013 and 2025. The review identifies three interconnected research directions: implementation mechanisms and governance structures, multi-actor collaboration and knowledge co-creation processes, and impact assessment. Findings reveal substantial heterogeneity in national and regional governance approaches, with critical structural barriers including horizontal and vertical fragmentation, inadequate funding, and compartmentalized implementation. The research highlights the importance of boundary-spanning actors, trust-building mechanisms, and structured facilitation in enabling effective multi-actor collaboration. Evidence suggests that EIP-AGRI contributes to sustainable agricultural innovation through enhanced knowledge exchange and network formation; however, impact assessment remains challenging due to methodological limitations and temporal constraints. The review establishes a future research agenda that emphasizes longitudinal evaluation, cross-country comparative analysis, and the potential for systemic transformation.