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Author: danae

Chios Mastiha Featured in ERT3 Tribute Marking the Completion of the “Mastiha Trees” Program

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A tribute to Chios mastiha and the people behind it

Chios mastiha is a unique product of Greek agrifood heritage, deeply rooted in tradition and in knowledge passed down from generation to generation, shaping the identity and daily life of local communities to this day.

On the occasion of the completion of the program “Mastiha Trees: Securing the Future of a National Product,” New Agriculture New Generation presents ERT3’s feature from the program “From Field to Shelf,” which highlights the journey of mastiha, from cultivation to the final product.

▶️ Watch the full feature on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoNUrdA_m6k

About the “Mastiha Trees” Program

The program is implemented by New Agriculture New Generation, in collaboration with the Chios Gum Mastic Growers Association and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, through the founding donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF).

The program aims to strengthen the sustainability of mastiha cultivation through knowledge transfer and producer support, contributing to safeguarding the future of a national product of particular importance to Greece’s economy and cultural heritage.

🔗 Learn more about the program:
https://newagri.org/axones-drasis/mastichodentra-diasfalizontas-to-mellon-enos-ethnikou-proiontos/

Easter Wishes from New Agriculture New Generation!

Posted on by danae

Easter Wishes

Easter brings us closer to what truly matters: family, community, and the renewing force of nature.

In the countryside, traditions come to life, and the Resurrection fills communities with light and hope.

New Agriculture New Generation wishes you a
Happy Easter, with health, peace, and strength for a fresh and creative new beginning.

Warm wishes for the season!

Office Closure

Please note that our offices will remain closed from Good Friday, April 10, until Easter Monday, April 13.

Efi Lazaridou Addresses the Interparty Parliamentary Committee on Strengthening Greece’s Primary Sector

Posted on by danae

March 4, 2026 – Address to the Interparty Parliamentary Committee

On March 4, 2026, a session of the Interparty Parliamentary Committee was held with the objective of examining key challenges and formulating proposals to strengthen the primary sector in light of contemporary challenges and international developments.

During the session, Efi Lazaridou, CEO of New Agriculture New Generation, delivered a statement focusing on agricultural education as a key pillar for sustainable rural development.

The Role of Agricultural Education Today

As highlighted in the address, agricultural knowledge today extends far beyond production. It encompasses entrepreneurship, technology adoption, sustainable practices, regulatory compliance, collaboration, and risk management.

At the same time, a significant gap in agricultural education in Greece continues to act as a barrier to modernization and competitiveness. Indicatively, 9 out of 10 farm managers lack formal agricultural training, while even among younger generations, the percentage of those with comprehensive agricultural education remains extremely low.

Three Key Areas of Intervention

The address focused on three core areas of intervention considered essential for strengthening the sector:

Knowledge transfer networks and farmer-to-farmer learning

Particular emphasis was placed on Demonstration Farm Networks and farmer-to-farmer learning as effective mechanisms for disseminating practical knowledge at scale.

Although these tools are already included in Greece’s Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan, they have yet to be fully implemented at the national level. At the same time, New Agriculture New Generation is already applying these methodologies through pilot initiatives with measurable impact.

Strengthening processing and cottage industry activity

The address also highlighted the need to support producers in developing processing and cottage industry activities through:

  • lifelong learning initiatives
  • tailored advisory services
  • stronger connections with markets and specialized professionals

A key priority identified is the establishment of a comprehensive support mechanism—a “one-stop shop”—to guide producers from concept to market.

Developing leadership skills in the agri-food sector

Special emphasis was placed on the need to cultivate leadership skills among agri-food professionals.

The goal is to foster a new generation of producers who:

  • combine knowledge with practical skills
  • understand the sector at both micro and macro levels
  • drive innovation and collaboration
  • actively contribute to the transformation of the sector

In this context, strengthening soft skills, networking, and access to high-level institutional and business environments is considered essential.

The Four Proposals

The four proposals presented during the intervention are as follows:

First – National skills targets: Establish modern, measurable targets based on real socio-economic impact rather than simple participation in programs, with consistent annual monitoring.

Second – Immediate implementation of AKIS provisions: Activate Demonstration Farm Networks and farmer-to-farmer learning networks across the country, with regional specialization based on local production priorities.

Third – Creation of a one-stop shop support system: Provide structured advisory and guidance services for producers entering processing and cottage industry, ensuring access to business knowledge and tailored consulting.

Fourth – Ambitious collective initiatives and leadership development programs: Strengthen professionals who can assume leadership roles in the agricultural sector through high-impact training and networking initiatives.

Concluding Remarks

As emphasized in the address, agri-food is a matter of national importance, as it directly relates to food production, rural sustainability, and regional cohesion.

New Agriculture New Generation remains committed to contributing actively to this national effort through applied education, knowledge transfer networks, and the strengthening of agri-food entrepreneurship across Greece.

The grafting of queen cells 2026 is set to begin | Phase B of the program “Queen Rearing in Central Greece – Utilization, Conservation and Improvement of Honey Bee Genetic Material | Queen Rearing in Practice.”

Posted on by danae

The program aims at the practical application of queen rearing techniques and the preservation of the valuable endemic genetic material of honey bees.

Within the framework of the initiative, nine trained queen rearers will carry out queen cell grafting at the apiaries of participating beekeepers, presenting the process in detail and offering on-site guidance and hands-on support to address questions. Each participating beekeeper will have the opportunity to receive up to 30 queen cells free of charge, sourced from selected genetic material, and to become familiar—step by step—with the queen rearing process alongside trained local queen rearers.

The program is implemented in the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis and is addressed to beekeepers in Central Greece, excluding Evia. Participants are offered specialized field-based training and free queen cells derived from the genetic material of the beneficiary beekeeper.

The grafting activities of the program will take place from February to May 2026, and participation is free of charge.
The program’s core objective is to strengthen biodiversity and support beekeeping in Central Greece through the improvement and conservation of local genetic material, contributing to the sustainability of the sector and the resilience of bee colonies.

The primary goal of the program is to reinforce beekeeping in Central Greece and enhance the region’s biodiversity and local agricultural production, as bees are among the most important pollinators of plants.

At the same time, the long-term objective of the initiative is the large-scale production of selected genetic material across the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis, with the ultimate aim of increasing productivity and developing more resilient bee colonies through the optimization of endemic genetic material.

The program is co-funded by Nea Georgia Nea Genia, the Region of Central Greece, the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, and APIVITA, within the framework of the Billion Bees Program.
The program was established through the founding donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) and is implemented in collaboration with the Agricultural University of Athens, under the scientific supervision of the Laboratory of Sericulture and Apiculture.

Learn more about the program and submit your application via the following link: https://newagri.org/en/lines-of-action/10620/

Agroanelixi – Farmers of the Future: Results for the 2020–2025 Period

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Agroanelixi – Farmers of the Future 2020–2025

The business accelerator “Agroanelixi – Farmers of the Future”, implemented by New Agriculture New Generation, completed a significant cycle of activity during the period 2020–2025, supporting the development of the next generation of agri-food businesses across Greece.

Through a comprehensive framework of training, tailored consulting, and hands-on guidance, the program supported producers and entrepreneurs in improving their products, developing new business activities, and strengthening their presence in both domestic and international markets.

The program is addressed to farmers, livestock producers, beekeepers, producer groups, cooperatives, and small processing businesses seeking to develop higher value-added products with stronger commercial potential.

Results for the 2020–2025 period

During the 2020–2025 period, the program achieved the following results:

• 100 agri-food professionals received business support
• 90 new or improved agri-food products were developed
• 80 on-site visits were conducted in production units across 34 regional units in Greece
• 9 new business collaborations were established among participating enterprises
• 6 awards were received by participants from international and European institutions

At the same time, the program recorded a 100% satisfaction rate among participants for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025.

How the program works

“Agroanelixi – Farmers of the Future” combines training, mentoring, and practical support, offering:

• 400 hours of specialized training
• 850 hours of personalized consulting support
• on-site visits to production units across Greece

Participants gain knowledge and tools in key areas such as food safety, marketing and branding, sales, business strategy, and product development.

Impact on rural Greece

Strengthening the competitiveness of small agri-food businesses generates a significant multiplier effect in local communities.

Each business that improves its production, standardization, and product distribution contributes to the creation of new economic opportunities, supports local economies, and strengthens the sustainability of rural areas.

Through the development of new products and the creation of collaborations, the program contributes to more resilient agri-food businesses and sustainable local economies.

What participants say

Participants highlight the tangible impact of the program on their business development.

Zoi Vratskidou (Agathas Farm) noted that the program “came at the right time”, providing valuable knowledge while saving time and cost, and ultimately helping her feel empowered.

Angeliki Drakou (Grizo Prasino) emphasized that the experience set “very high standards” for future training programs and that she already recommends Agroanelixi to other producers.

Nikos Itskos (Varecon Food Company) highlighted that the program enabled more targeted decision-making regarding product positioning and promotion.

Xenia Galetsi (Megas Karpos Food Company) underlined the strengthening of her knowledge in key areas and the value of building a strong community of producers.

Why the program matters

The agri-food sector is a key pillar of the Greek economy and regional development.

Supporting small producers and businesses with business tools, expertise, and access to collaboration networks contributes to the transition from raw material production to higher value-added products.

“Agroanelixi – Farmers of the Future” acts as a catalyst for this transition, strengthening competitiveness and creating new opportunities for sustainable development in the Greek agri-food sector.

Implementation and support

The business accelerator “Agroanelixi – Farmers of the Future” was implemented during the period 2020–2025 by New Agriculture New Generation, through the founding donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF).

During this period, the program was supported by:

• Hellenic Republic – Ministry of Rural Development and Food (under the auspices, 2022–2025)
• PPC (Public Power Corporation)
• Municipality of Servia
• Municipality of Agia
• DS Smith
• Elbisco
• CrediaBank
• TÜV Austria
• American Farm School
• Perrotis College
• Specialist Awards
• NBIS
• e-food
• AFI

The program will continue in 2026.

Social Farming 360° | The Impact of a Landmark Social Farming Programme

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Social Farming 360° was an innovative and multifaceted social farming programme implemented in the agricultural correctional facilities of Greece between 2024 and 2025, functioning as a vehicle for the reintegration of incarcerated individuals while strengthening food production and food security.

In more detail

The Social Farming 360° programme was implemented by New Agriculture New Generation, with the full support of the Citi Foundation, in close collaboration with the General Secretariat for Anti-Crime Policy of the Ministry of Citizen Protection, and with the participation of ActionAid and Pyli Eleftherias (Gate of Freedom).

The programme connects three interrelated goals: food security, sustainable agricultural production, and the reintegration of vulnerable social groups into the labour market and social life.

It was a multi-level, two-year social farming programme implemented across six correctional facilities:

4 Agricultural Correctional Facilities

  • Agia Chania
  • Tiryntha Argolida
  • Kassaveteia Volos
  • Kassandra Halkidiki

2 Special Correctional Facilities

  • Women’s Agricultural Department of Eleonas Thebes
  • Drug Rehabilitation Centre for Incarcerated Individuals of Eleonas Thebes

The implementation period of the programme lasted from 01/2024 to 12/2025.

By supporting sustainable food production within the country’s correctional facilities, Social Farming 360° promotes sustainability while offering incarcerated individuals opportunities for training and employment in the agricultural sector. At the same time, it strengthens the training of agronomists working within these facilities.

In essence, through the programme, agriculture is transformed into a tool for learning, empowerment, and social reintegration.

The programme was structured around technical and social interventions operating in a complementary manner.

Within the agricultural component, participants were trained in topics such as olive cultivation, medicinal and aromatic plants, food safety, and product production. Special emphasis was also placed on regenerative agriculture, namely practices related to soil fertility, sustainable cultivation, and biodiversity protection.

At the same time, ActionAid implemented the employability and professional development component, while Pyli Eleftherias (Gate of Freedom) implemented the psychosocial support and social inclusion component.

It should also be highlighted that the programme was not limited to incarcerated individuals, as agronomists and technical agricultural staff working within the correctional facilities also participated. In this way, a significant part of the programme’s technical knowledge is maintained even after its completion, contributing to resilience and long-term productive benefits for the facilities.

Educational thematic units

  1. Regenerative & Social Agriculture
  2. Olive Cultivation
  3. Medicinal & Aromatic Plants
  4. Food Safety & Product Production
  5. Employability & Professional Development (implemented by ActionAid)
  6. Psychosocial Support & Social Inclusion (implemented by Pyli Eleftherias / Gate of Freedom)

Participation and programme impact

Participation in the programme was significant and indicative of the strong interest it generated. Specifically, the following were recorded:

  • 1,081 participations of incarcerated individuals and agronomists in agricultural training sessions
  • 648 hours of training in agricultural and professional skills
  • 696 ACTA professional certifications
  • 214 incarcerated individuals participated in employability activities
  • 297 incarcerated individuals participated in psychosocial support sessions

It is worth noting that a considerable number of incarcerated individuals who participated in the programme continued after their release by joining ActionAid reintegration programmes.

At the same time, participants’ testimonies demonstrate that the programme was perceived as an initiative that opened new professional prospects and created an environment of communication, respect, and honesty.

Indicative testimonies from participants

  • The programme helped me a lot and opened new professional opportunities for me.
  • I appreciated the communication, respect, and honesty.
  • The programme should continue for more participants.
  • I learned how to communicate with other people.
  • I learned things that will be useful to me, and I also appreciated the respect that existed.
  • I appreciated learning about programmes that will help us after our release.
  • I appreciated the teamwork.
  • I really liked the way the programme was presented by the trainers and the support they provided us.
  • I liked everything: your positive energy and your behaviour towards us. It improved my psychology, which I completely lacked, because in this way you feel capable of doing anything.
  • During these few days, I realised that if you truly want to learn, you can.

The international dimension of the programme

Social Farming 360° also carries a broader institutional and international impact. New Agriculture New Generation was one of 50 organisations worldwide selected for the first Citi Foundation Global Innovation Challenge focused on food security, with each organisation receiving $500,000 in funding for a two-year intervention.

The Citi Foundation also featured a dedicated article highlighting the programme.

Key conclusions

  • Agriculture can serve as a powerful rehabilitation tool when combined with structured psychosocial and professional support.
  • Certification significantly increases participants’ motivation and perceived self-worth.
  • Integrated models (technical + social support) generate stronger behavioural and emotional outcomes compared to standalone skills training.
  • Relationships of respect between trainers and participants emerged as a critical success factor.
  • Correctional environments benefit from long-term, continuous programmes.
  • Multi-stakeholder collaborations (NGOs, agronomists, social support providers) are essential for holistic impact.

Conclusion

In summary, the programme operated across four different dimensions: food production, education, professional preparation, and psychosocial preparation for reintegration, while simultaneously promoting institutional cooperation between public and social sector actors.

Through Social Farming 360°, food security within correctional facilities and related structures was strengthened, while the social reintegration of incarcerated individuals was actively supported.

Watch the programme VIDEO.

Download the program’s fact sheet in PDF.

Read more about the program here.

The grafting of queen cells 2026 is set to begin | Phase B of the program “Queen Rearing in Central Greece – Utilization, Conservation and Improvement of Honey Bee Genetic Material | Queen Rearing in Practice.”

Posted on by danae

The program aims at the practical application of queen rearing techniques and the preservation of the valuable endemic genetic material of honey bees.

Within the framework of the initiative, nine trained queen rearers will carry out queen cell grafting at the apiaries of participating beekeepers, presenting the process in detail and offering on-site guidance and hands-on support to address questions. Each participating beekeeper will have the opportunity to receive up to 30 queen cells free of charge, sourced from selected genetic material, and to become familiar—step by step—with the queen rearing process alongside trained local queen rearers.

The program is implemented in the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis and is addressed to beekeepers in Central Greece, excluding Evia. Participants are offered specialized field-based training and free queen cells derived from the genetic material of the beneficiary beekeeper.

The grafting activities of the program will take place from February to May 2026, and participation is free of charge.
The program’s core objective is to strengthen biodiversity and support beekeeping in Central Greece through the improvement and conservation of local genetic material, contributing to the sustainability of the sector and the resilience of bee colonies.

The primary goal of the program is to reinforce beekeeping in Central Greece and enhance the region’s biodiversity and local agricultural production, as bees are among the most important pollinators of plants.

At the same time, the long-term objective of the initiative is the large-scale production of selected genetic material across the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis, with the ultimate aim of increasing productivity and developing more resilient bee colonies through the optimization of endemic genetic material.

The program is co-funded by Nea Georgia Nea Genia, the Region of Central Greece, the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, and APIVITA, within the framework of the Billion Bees Program.
The program was established through the founding donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) and is implemented in collaboration with the Agricultural University of Athens, under the scientific supervision of the Laboratory of Sericulture and Apiculture.

Learn more about the program and submit your application via the following link: https://newagri.org/en/lines-of-action/10620/

The grafting of queen cells 2026 is set to begin | Phase B of the program “Queen Rearing in Central Greece – Utilization, Conservation and Improvement of Honey Bee Genetic Material | Queen Rearing in Practice.”

Posted on by danae

The program aims at the practical application of queen rearing techniques and the preservation of the valuable endemic genetic material of honey bees.

Within the framework of the initiative, nine trained queen rearers will carry out queen cell grafting at the apiaries of participating beekeepers, presenting the process in detail and offering on-site guidance and hands-on support to address questions. Each participating beekeeper will have the opportunity to receive up to 30 queen cells free of charge, sourced from selected genetic material, and to become familiar—step by step—with the queen rearing process alongside trained local queen rearers.

The program is implemented in the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis and is addressed to beekeepers in Central Greece, excluding Evia. Participants are offered specialized field-based training and free queen cells derived from the genetic material of the beneficiary beekeeper.

The grafting activities of the program will take place from February to May 2026, and participation is free of charge.
The program’s core objective is to strengthen biodiversity and support beekeeping in Central Greece through the improvement and conservation of local genetic material, contributing to the sustainability of the sector and the resilience of bee colonies.

The primary goal of the program is to reinforce beekeeping in Central Greece and enhance the region’s biodiversity and local agricultural production, as bees are among the most important pollinators of plants.

At the same time, the long-term objective of the initiative is the large-scale production of selected genetic material across the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis, with the ultimate aim of increasing productivity and developing more resilient bee colonies through the optimization of endemic genetic material.

The program is co-funded by Nea Georgia Nea Genia, the Region of Central Greece, the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, and APIVITA, within the framework of the Billion Bees Program.
The program was established through the founding donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) and is implemented in collaboration with the Agricultural University of Athens, under the scientific supervision of the Laboratory of Sericulture and Apiculture.

Learn more about the program and submit your application via the following link: https://newagri.org/en/lines-of-action/10620/

The grafting of queen cells 2026 is set to begin | Phase B of the program “Queen Rearing in Central Greece – Utilization, Conservation and Improvement of Honey Bee Genetic Material | Queen Rearing in Practice.”

Posted on by danae

The program aims at the practical application of queen rearing techniques and the preservation of the valuable endemic genetic material of honey bees.

Within the framework of the initiative, nine trained queen rearers will carry out queen cell grafting at the apiaries of participating beekeepers, presenting the process in detail and offering on-site guidance and hands-on support to address questions. Each participating beekeeper will have the opportunity to receive up to 30 queen cells free of charge, sourced from selected genetic material, and to become familiar—step by step—with the queen rearing process alongside trained local queen rearers.

The program is implemented in the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis and is addressed to beekeepers in Central Greece, excluding Evia. Participants are offered specialized field-based training and free queen cells derived from the genetic material of the beneficiary beekeeper.

The grafting activities of the program will take place from February to May 2026, and participation is free of charge.
The program’s core objective is to strengthen biodiversity and support beekeeping in Central Greece through the improvement and conservation of local genetic material, contributing to the sustainability of the sector and the resilience of bee colonies.

The primary goal of the program is to reinforce beekeeping in Central Greece and enhance the region’s biodiversity and local agricultural production, as bees are among the most important pollinators of plants.

At the same time, the long-term objective of the initiative is the large-scale production of selected genetic material across the Regional Units of Boeotia, Evrytania, Phthiotis, and Phocis, with the ultimate aim of increasing productivity and developing more resilient bee colonies through the optimization of endemic genetic material.

The program is co-funded by Nea Georgia Nea Genia, the Region of Central Greece, the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, and APIVITA, within the framework of the Billion Bees Program.
The program was established through the founding donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) and is implemented in collaboration with the Agricultural University of Athens, under the scientific supervision of the Laboratory of Sericulture and Apiculture.

Learn more about the program and submit your application via the following link: https://newagri.org/en/lines-of-action/10620/

Queen Rearing in Thessaly: Distribution of Queen Cells to Support Local Beekeeping

Posted on by danae

Continuing support for beekeepers in Thessaly

A new strategic initiative to restart beekeeping in Thessaly is launched through the program “Queen Rearing in Thessaly: Distribution of Queen Cells to Support Local Beekeeping”, announced by the organization New Agriculture New Generation, aiming to support beekeepers affected by storm Daniel in 2023.

The program builds on previous successful initiatives supporting the local beekeeping community and responds to multiple requests for further assistance and restoration of production activity.

The impact of storm Daniel

Storm “Daniel” caused extensive damage in Thessaly, leading to the loss of more than 40% of bee colonies and significantly affecting a sector that plays a crucial role in agricultural production and biodiversity in the region.

From the very beginning, the organization Νέα Γεωργία Νέα Γενιά has stood by affected beekeepers, providing more than 27,000 queen cells, which contributed to the creation of over 21,600 new bee colonies.

What the program includes

The program will be implemented from April to September 2026 and will support up to 150 beekeepers in Thessaly through the free distribution of 10,000 queen cells derived from endemic genetic material of the region.

The production of queen cells will be carried out by 8 specialized queen breeders, who have already been trained through previous programs of the organization and utilize selected genetic material, either their own or that of participating beekeepers.

This approach enhances the development of high-quality and resilient bee colonies and contributes to the long-term sustainability of the sector.

Partnerships and implementation

The program is designed and implemented by the organization New Agriculture New Generation, in collaboration with the Agricultural University of Athens and under the scientific guidance of the Laboratory of Sericulture and Apiculture, supervised by Assistant Professor Georgios Gkoras.

It is co-funded by the Region of Thessaly, the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation and APIVITA within the framework of the Billion Bees Program.

Who can participate

Priority will be given to beekeepers affected by storm Daniel, following the evaluation of applications.

Areas of implementation

The program is implemented in the following Regional Units:

  • Larissa
  • Karditsa
  • Magnesia
  • Trikala

Applications

The first application cycle will remain open until April 24, 2026.

Learn more about the program and submit your application via the following link: https://newagri.org/en/lines-of-action/

Program impact

The initiative aims to support affected beekeepers, preserve and utilize local bee genetic material, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the sector.

At the same time, it contributes to strengthening the local beekeeping community and preserving biodiversity, as bees are among the most important pollinators of crops.

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