Improving Europe’s food quality schemes (FQS), public sector food procurement (PSFP), and short food supply chains (SFSC) is a pressing challenge. To tackle this issue, the EU-funded Strength2Food project has emerged with a goal to enhance the effectiveness of these vital components through research, innovation, and demonstrations. Led by a consortium of 30 partners from 11 EU and 4 non-EU countries, Strength2Food quantifies the economic, environmental, and social impacts of FQS, PSFP, and SFSC. It assesses the influence of PSFP policies on school nutrition. Through pilot initiatives and knowledge exchange, this project seeks to foster a sustainable and resilient European food system. Building on their findings, Strength2Food will conduct six pilot initiatives targeting less-developed and transitioning regions.