Research projects

Smart and precision agriculture is based on the use of advanced technologies, such as robotics, IoT sensors, artificial intelligence and big data analytics, to optimise production processes. These technologies enable precise monitoring of conditions and thereby support more informed decision-making. Optimised use of resources reduces costs while increasing crop quality and yields. New technologies also bring important social and economic benefits. In addition to improving production efficiency, they contribute to reducing physical workload, while digitalisation enables the development of new business models and services.

The project Guidelines for Smart and Precision Agriculture addresses current challenges in Slovenian agriculture by integrating advanced technologies and digitalisation into agricultural practices. Due to historical, geographical and socio-economic factors, Slovenian agriculture has specific characteristics that require a tailored approach to the introduction of new technologies. A large proportion of farms are small and fragmented and are often located in areas with natural constraints due to hilly terrain or challenging climatic conditions. The implementation of smart and precision agriculture is therefore particularly important, as it can improve productivity and support sustainable development while taking local characteristics into account.

Key project objectives

1. Analysis of the current state of smart and precision agriculture in Slovenia: The aim is to assess the readiness of Slovenian agriculture for the adoption of smart technologies, taking into account local characteristics as well as infrastructural, economic and social barriers.
2. Increasing farmers’ awareness and capacity to use advanced technologies: The aim is to raise farmers’ awareness through tailored training and advisory programmes on the benefits of smart technologies and empower them to use new tools and solutions.
3. Assessment of the cost-effectiveness and profitability of smart agricultural technologies: We will examine the economic benefits by analysing return on investment, total cost of ownership, and impacts on productivity, labour costs and resource use for different types of farms.
4. Promoting digital transformation and innovation in agriculture: The aim is to accelerate the digital transformation of Slovenian agriculture through the introduction of advanced solutions. We will identify key technological trends, new business models and examples of good practice.
5. Development of guidelines for implementing smart technologies on Slovenian farms: The aim is to prepare a set of recommendations and guidelines tailored to different types of farms to support users and decision-makers. Emphasis will be placed on established, adaptable and accessible solutions.
6. Development of supportive policies and strategies for the wider adoption of smart technologies: Recommendations for developing supportive policies at national level will include financial incentives, subsidies and other mechanisms to accelerate the adoption of smart technologies in agriculture.
7. Contribution to improving the competitiveness and sustainable development of Slovenian agriculture: The project will improve efficiency, productivity and crop quality and contribute to greater competitiveness, increased self-sufficiency and food security.

Expected project results

The project will improve understanding of the needs of Slovenian farms regarding the adoption of smart technologies and develop guidelines and training programmes for their use. It will present examples of good practice and analyse the costs of advanced technologies, with particular emphasis on adapting them to local conditions. The results will contribute to greater competitiveness, the creation of new jobs, and the development of sustainable and digitalised agriculture.

1. Results of the analysis of the current situation and readiness for the adoption of smart technologies: The analysis will provide a better understanding of the needs of agricultural holdings and identify key factors for the successful implementation of technologies.
2. Examples of good practice: The project will identify and document examples of good practice in the implementation of smart and precision agriculture, both in Slovenia and abroad.
3. Costs of advanced technologies: The project will present the costs of smart and precision agriculture technologies, taking into account different business models.
4. Training programmes for the use of advanced technologies: Education and training programmes will include workshops aimed at increasing knowledge of the benefits of smart agriculture and developing skills for the use of modern technologies.
5. Guidelines for smart and precision agriculture in the Slovenian context: Guidelines for farmers, advisers and decision-makers will include concepts for the application of smart and precision agriculture technologies in the Slovenian environment.
6. Proposed strategy for promoting digitalisation in agriculture: The strategy will include measures to support technology adoption, including financial incentives, subsidies, advisory services and training, as well as measures to reduce regulatory barriers.
7. Contribution to the creation of new jobs and business opportunities: The implementation of smart agriculture will encourage the development of new businesses and services and create new jobs. Particular emphasis will be placed on the development of service provision, technical support and advisory services.