Food Policy
Volume 51, In Progress (February 2015)
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/03069192
Measuring and understanding the drivers of agricultural innovation: Evidence from Ireland
Original Research Article
Pages 1-8
Doris Läpple, Alan Renwick, Fiona Thorne
Abstract
Despite the well-known importance of innovation to productivity growth in the agri-food sector, very few studies have attempted to measure farm-level innovation. This article contributes to the literature by developing an agricultural innovation index that goes beyond measuring innovation through adopted technologies. Based on this index, drivers and barriers of innovation are assessed. The findings reveal that innovation efforts differ between farm systems. Moreover, farm size and intensity, access to credit and agricultural education foster innovation, while increasing age and working off-farm hinder innovation. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to facilitate innovation in the agri-food sector.

Innovation grants to smallholder farmers: Revisiting the key assumptions in the impact pathways
Original Research Article
Pages 9-23
Giel Ton, Laurens Klerkx, Karin de Grip, Marie-Luise Rau
Abstract
Grant funds specifically targeted to smallholder farmers to facilitate innovation are a promising agricultural policy instrument. They stimulate smallholders to experiment with improved practices, and to engage with research, extension and business development services providers. However, evidence on impact and effectiveness of these grants is scarce. Partly, because attribution of changes in practices and performance to the grant alone is challenging, and the grant is often invested in innovation processes that benefitted from other support in the past. We discuss three modalities: vouchers, business development matching grants and farmer-driven innovation support funds. Our review points to an important and transversal outcome area of innovation grant systems: the creation of human and social capital to sustain creative thinking and innovative practices. Harmonising measurement on these outcomes could enhance the usefulness and comparability of impact studies and facilitate benchmarking of different policy options for smallholder innovation.