TASK 6: Resilience of the value chain and the business/initiative – dealing with change and crises

Summary in the original language of the document

Learning, diversity, trust and social networks are key aspects of adaptive capacity and thus for building resilience (Walker et al., 2004; Milestad et al., 2010). The organic value chains explored in HG were able to overcome challenges and grow into mid-scale initiatives because they had adaptive capacity. Thus, they were willing to learn and took the opportunities to learn in order to adjust activities. They used diversity as a strategy to spread risks and to keep options open. Trusting relationships and long-term partnerships with market partners and other actors was strived for and accomplished with extensive social networks. Coupled with professionalization of business and value management, as well as using available market partners to their advantage, the organic initiatives strengthened their adaptive capacity and built resilience.