The implementing entity (Hub) of OnFoods is composed of 11 state universities, 1 non-state university, 3 national research bodies, 3 private bodies engaged in research activities, and 6 private companies, including major national actors in the agri-food sector.

The Hub is a non-profit legal entity established in the form of a Foundation, with the participation of public and private partners. Each partner participates in the Hub governance, contributes to the definition of its strategic directions, coordinates the research, development and technology transfer activities of the Spokes, and has direct access to public funding.

The Hub, established as a dedicated legal entity, relies on the management and administrative expertise of its members, who have extensive experience in managing complex projects and large partnerships at both national and international level.

The Hub’s organisational structure is designed to ensure effective project implementation and facilitate cooperation among partners, while maintaining constant monitoring of project objectives.

The Board of Directors (BoD) is the governing body of the Hub. It approves strategic and operational guidelines, ensures the achievement of project objectives, and appoints the Scientific Committee. It is elected by the shareholders and is composed of five representatives: one elected by UNIPR (Chair), two elected by the other universities and public research bodies, and two elected by the remaining partners of the Hub, by simple majority voting.

The Scientific Committee, chaired by its Coordinator, is composed of a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 11 members elected by the General Assembly. It addresses and monitors the scientific activity plan and overall performance indicators, shares best practices among Spokes, and promotes cross-contamination through inter-Spoke or multi-Spoke initiatives.

The Research Manager (RM) is responsible for the overall scientific and technological management and coordination of the project. The RM is appointed by UNIPR and acts as a link between the consortium and the Ministry of University and Research (MUR).

Project management takes into consideration the different aspects defined in the dedicated Work Package on coordination and management. The Spokes and their affiliates define and implement the detailed research and innovation programme, which is validated by the Hub. Both the Hub and the Spokes are responsible for achieving the milestones and targets set by the programme.

A dedicated Project Management Office (PMO) supports the RM in the management of the project. It includes three administrative staff members from universities/research centres and one staff member from the companies involved in OnFoods.

The PMO assists and facilitates the work of the Spokes and supports financial, contractual and administrative matters. It is also responsible for project quality and risk assessment, as well as communication and dissemination activities.