Although only around 2.8% of the workforce in Austria is employed in agriculture and forestry today, and the primary sector contributes approximately 1.4% to gross value added, agriculture remains an essential pillar of our society, our regions and our cultural landscape. Its diverse contributions deserve special recognition and appreciation – which is precisely why building strong partnerships and finding allies is so valuable.

Small-scale farming is characterized by its innovative strength and adaptability. A wide range of strategies – including cooperation, niche production, quality programmes and new services – continually creates new opportunities. Education and advisory services play a central role: they actively support farms from the initial idea through to successful market implementation, thereby sustainably strengthening the future viability of agriculture.

This is exactly where IALB 2027 aims to make a difference: the conference creates space for exchange, networking and new perspectives. It brings together people and organizations from education, advisory services, agricultural practice and public administration to jointly develop solutions for a sustainable future in agriculture.