The final conference of the CROPINNO project was successfully held in Novi Sad from June 25–27, 2025, hosted by the Climate Crops Centre. This milestone event marked the culmination of our Horizon Europe initiative (Grant Agreement No. 101059784), dedicated to advancing climate-resilient crop improvement through integrative scientific approaches.

CROPINNO Final Conference: Celebrating Three Years of Collaborative Innovation
CROPINNO Final Conference: Celebrating Three Years of Collaborative Innovation

Over the course of three days, the conference brought together researchers, stakeholders, and project partners—particularly from the Western Balkans—to reflect on the achievements of our multi-year collaboration. The programme featured presentations of implementation results and four thematic scientific sessions focused on:

  • Soil and Climate
  • Breeding for Resilience
  • Omics Tools
  • Future Trends

Key highlights included the establishment of training schools, short-term scientific missions (STSMs), and collaborative workshops that significantly enhanced institutional and individual capacities across the consortium. These efforts have laid a strong foundation for continued excellence in crop science and innovation.

Discussions throughout the event underscored the importance of harmonising field-based physiological measurements with molecular data. Several sessions explored the potential of artificial intelligence and statistical modelling to uncover hidden patterns of resilience in crops. The conference also spotlighted the enduring value of regional and international partnerships, with the Climate Crops Centre of Excellence emerging as a central legacy structure to support future knowledge exchange and innovation.

Beyond the scientific programme, the gathering offered a vibrant space for networking, strengthening collaborations, and celebrating the spirit of shared discovery. It was a truly inspiring and memorable conclusion to the CROPINNO journey.