The National Institute for Agricultural and Veterinary Research (INIAV) is the state laboratory of the Portuguese Ministry for Agriculture and the Sea​​, which carries out research activities in the agro-food, forestry and veterinary fields. The INIAV is made up of researchers and technicians with extensive experience in plant improvement, agronomy, ecophysiology and molecular biology. The institution has experimental fields, machinery testing and lab analyses, which allow carrying out the activities proposed in the TecnOlivo project.

According to the INIAV’s strategic approach, cross-border cooperation is essential for developing regional agriculture. Good agricultural practices should integrate all the available knowledge to achieve the economic, environmental and social sustainability of the production on farms. Studies should also communicate relevant information on the implementation of cultural practices in the olive grove between the both countries. Thus, TecnOlivo should strengthen the bonds between research teams and companies, taking advantage of the individual capacities and synergies of the partnering teams and regions.

The INIAV has participated in cooperation and research consortia with Portuguese and worldwide organisations. In recent years, the INIAV has also contributed as beneficiary to several cross-border cooperation projects (INTERREG III, POCTEP), highlighting: “the cross-border Spain-Portugal experimentation and network transfer for developing the agricultural and industrial sector” (RED_AGROTEC); and “improving agricultural systems and crop rationalization to optimize the competitiveness and sustainability of farms” (AGRI_SOS). The INIAV was also involved in other international FP7projects. Thus, INIAV is duly experienced in managing its resources and assets, as well as in sharing of responsibilities within the framework of collaborative projects.