An effective and dynamic agricultural innovation system depends on the capacity of individuals, organizations, and networks to develop localized solutions to complex agrifood system problems.
Development practitioners have learned that a solely conceptual or technical understanding of agriculture –the kind of understanding that resides in institutes of higher learning and research centers—is not sufficient to guarantee the emergence of a robust and vibrant innovation system. For an innovation system to function, a much wider range of actors must advance innovative capabilities and organizational change. This requires novel applications of network, system, and policy analysis; relationship building and experiential learning opportunities; and the forging of networks and linkages with other innovation agents.
