Innovation network for research and development: towards efficient dissemination and pro-poor impact mechanisms based on new potato varieties in the Andean region

Andean countries have made progress in potato breeding, but innovations are still needed for low-income people in marginal high-Andean areas. The gap is a consequence of the weak coordination of research systems with development agents and grassroots organizations, the incompatibility between formal seed systems and peasant ("informal") systems, the limited systematization and replication of experiences that work in specific contexts and collaboration between countries with a similar reality. The project has contributed to correct the above based on four modules:

1. Facilitated access of national research systems to standardized germplasm, information and evaluation procedures.
2. Accelerated release of varieties and early adoption of innovative dissemination, diffusion and promotion schemes adapted to multiple needs and opportunities.
3. Diverse, efficient and economically viable technologies for seed production.
4. Research and Development Innovation Network to facilitate interaction between public and private actors and existing networks.

Some of the outstanding products and results include an increase in the genetic base with resistant and highly productive materials; diffusion and promotion of new varieties; improved seed systems based on aeroponics, information and training units for multi-stakeholder chains.