Speed Dating Event for regional partnerships: Connecting Gastronomy Hosts with Organic Farmers
About this good practice
The eco-model regions (Öko-Modellregionen) in the Rott & Inn area are part of Bavaria’s BioRegio programs, which aim to expand organic farming and strengthen local bio-product value chains by connecting organic farmers with local gastronomy, restaurants, hotels, schools, and hospitals. A key challenge in the Rott & Inn region is the communication gap between farmers and local gastronomy. This gap makes it difficult for farmers to sell their fresh, organic products within their communities and limits the development of a sustainable local supply chain in local gastronomy.
Recognizing this challenge, the eco-model region of Rott & Inn introduced a free Speed Dating event to connect farmers (suppliers) with local gastronomy (buyers). The event involved five nearby regions, with seven local farmers showcasing their organic products to seven managers from the local gastronomy sector. This 1:1 meeting format allowed farmers to present their products at fixed tables while managers rotated between them. After 10 minutes, a bell rang, signaling managers to move to the next table, to ensure that they can meet multiple suppliers in a short time.
Resources needed
The preparation for the event included finding a suitable room to accommodate 7-10 tables for participants to present their products, projects, or policies. The recommended number of participants is 7-10 from each side.
Evidence of success
New collaborations were fostered and local networks were expanded. A long-term business agreement was established between the gastronomy and the farmer, ensuring a regular supply of local projects via a short, direct route. Two hoteliers from Bad Füssing were pleased to gain greater visibility of nearby producers and expressed interest in building relationships with local farmers for future collaborations.
Potential for learning or transfer
The speed dating event offers an effective model for facilitating communication between two groups with potentially matching interests, enabling them to establish direct, time-limited interactions that foster understanding and collaboration.
Success factors include the efficient, structured format, which ensures focused and meaningful discussions. Another appealing aspect is that the event’s setting is not cost-intensive and does not need a long-term preparation. Potential barrier is the challenge of finding suitable matches between participants. If attendees are not adequately prepared or committed, the effectiveness of the event may be limited.
Further information
Good practice owner
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