This paper examines how six French Geographical Indication (GI) cheese sectors navigated climate change adaptation during the ADAoPT project. Using participatory tools such as farmer training, serious games, technical inputs, participatory design and peer-to-peer learning, the project aimed to foster collective strategies for sustainable transitions. First, a trajectory analysis of the six GIs within the project was conducted to systematically and temporally understand their evolution. Second, a cross-analysis of six professional practice assessment sessions was carried out with GI facilitators to gain deeper insights into the challenges they faced. Despite diverse methodologies, significant challenges arose, including top-down governance, sectoral fragmentation and over-solicitation of actors and facilitators. To overcome these barriers, the project identifies several solutions. Systemic approaches that frame transitions within a broader strategy rather than isolated technical fixes foster engagement and long-term planning. Territorial multi-stakeholder partnerships enhance innovation capacity. The use of serious games and participatory foresight tools, facilitates dialogue, strategic thinking, and commitment among diverse actors. Adaptive governance models that introduce more inclusive and decentralized decision-making structures improve responsiveness and implementation. The paper offers practical insights into enhancing collective action within GI systems, contributing to broader theoretical discussions on AKIS, participatory processes, and adaptive governance for sustainable agri-food transitions.