Results: Needs Assessment on New Technologies & Artificial Intelligence for Farmers, Fishers, Agricultural Entrepreneurs, and Agrotourism Professionals

The preliminary Needs Assessment on New Technologies & Artificial Intelligence for Farmers, Fishers, Agricultural Entrepreneurs, and Agrotourism Professionals, implemented within the framework of the new CorfuGen, was completed on April 3, 2026. Our goal was to map the needs, challenges, and level of familiarity with new technologies among both agricultural professionals and individuals wishing to utilize their land property.

Today, we are publishing the key findings and sharing the lessons learned regarding the improvement of our communication with the agricultural community.

The Challenge of Digital Participation

Despite the extensive promotion of the survey on digital media, participation in the online questionnaire remained at low levels. This result, combined with the enthusiastic response to our in-person workshops, sends us a clear message:

The sector seeks personal contact, physical presence, and direct interaction.

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Key Findings of the Research

Although the sample was limited, the responses offer significant qualitative indications regarding the state of the sector.

1. Demographics & Participant Identity

The participants are involved in the agricultural sector in various ways (farmers, agronomy students, agricultural consultants, etc.) and come from all age groups, with the largest percentage belonging to the 31-45 age group.

2. Digital Readiness and Challenges

One of the main conclusions is the need for targeted training, as participants are either unfamiliar with new technologies or recognize the value of technology but face difficulties in its implementation.

3. Main Concerns

Unpredictable weather phenomena, labor shortages, and water scarcity/high irrigation costs emerge as the top factors of concern.

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From Theory to Practice: What’s Next?

We hear your needs! Taking into account the preference for in-person contact, we are moving our activities to the field and redesigning the research with the goal of collecting responses through new, more interactive methods.

The first CorfuGen pilot installations will soon take place in Corfu, accompanied by more in-person activities, workshops, and briefings on the ground.

We continue together, aiming for a “smarter” and more sustainable agricultural sector in the Ionian Islands!