‍The fourteenth Conversation on Agroecology, held in October 2025, focused on engaging value chain actors in Agroecology Living Labs (AELLs), with a special emphasis on methodological assessment and practical experiences from the AELL in Valle Varaita, Italy.‍

The first speaker, Corrado Ciaccia, from the Council for Agricultural Research and Agricultural Economy (CREA) in Italy shared insights into a newly developed methodology for engaging value chain actors in AELLs. This methodology was designed within the Agroecology Partnership as part of WP7, Task 7.3. Corrado began by giving some ground laying definitions on the stakeholders and actors, the operational scale and the physical but also socio-cultural territory of the value chains. He emphasized that the purpose of this methodology is threefold: i) align the methodologies with agroecological principles to maximize impact of the AELL in activating/carrying out transformative actions of the agri-food system; ii) ensure adaptability and flexibility for different geographical, cultural and social contexts; iii) leverage partnerships to support capacity building and knowledge sharing. The methodology follows a three-step process: first, defining the context and identifying the operational scale; second, characterizing this scale by mapping the types of actors and stakeholders involved; and third, conducting analysis and engagement activities. ‍

The second speaker, Paola Migliorini from the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo, shared practical experiences of stakeholder engagement within the Valle Varaita Living Lab in the Piedmont region of Italy. This pilot Living Lab was co-created as part of the project “Agroecology for Europe” (WP4), with the Varaita Valley serving as a regional case study. They developed a five-step methodology to enable the comparison of AELL in their performance, impact and contribution to agroecological transition. These steps are: (1) identify problems, (2) discuss goals, (3) build networks and scientific knowledge, (4) solve local issues, and (5) disseminate results to serve this purpose. This process was implemented through three workshops, where co-creation and trust-building were essential to ensure participants felt safe sharing concerns and experiences. The first workshop focused on mapping existing structures and creating local connections to identify mutual support opportunities. In the second, participants drafted a local agroecology manifesto which attracted like-minded actors without creating a barrier for participation. The final workshop centred on dissemination, inviting the wider public and neighbouring valleys to discuss regional agricultural challenges. A tangible result that persists today is the farmers’ market established during the AELL, which promotes local production for local consumption. ‍

The session concluded with a lively discussion on shared methods and experiences related to stakeholder engagement, particularly with farmers. The speakers advised identifying local facilitators to help connect with the wider community and better understand the interests of local actors. To keep stakeholders engaged, it is important to create a familiar atmosphere with flat hierarchies and foster a sense of identity around the shared cause.