Hosted by the project coordinator, Cluster of Bioeconomy and Environment of Western Macedonia, the meeting brought together representatives from the full project consortium, including 14 organisations from 12 countries. Partners discussed the project’s ambitions, work plan, and initial steps for engaging regional clusters and stakeholders.
Empowering Bioeconomy Across the Widening Regions
BIO-INSPIRE aims to strengthen regional bioeconomy clusters in Greece, Hungary, Slovakia, Lithuania, Romania, Bulgaria, and Poland by addressing key challenges such as limited access to research infrastructure, weak networks, and lack of skilled professionals. By doing so, the project will support these regions in fully participating in Europe’s green transition and bio-based economy.
At the core of the project is the development of a Governance Roadmap, a step-by-step framework to build sustainable, long-term collaboration across regions. The roadmap will help local actors overcome existing barriers, boost innovation capacity, and foster cross-border cooperation.
Concrete Tools for Long-Term Impact
BIO-INSPIRE will also deliver a range of tools and activities to support regional clusters, including:
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8 Thematic Communities of Practice to foster knowledge exchange and peer learning
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A knowledge transfer programme with advanced clusters and research institutes
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A cross-border open call to support new collaborative innovation projects
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A cooperation and clustering network to ensure long-term connections beyond the project
By partnering with leading research organisations such as RISE Research Institutes of Sweden and Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands, BIO-INSPIRE aims to bridge the gap between less-developed and more advanced regions.
Voices from the Kick-Off
“BIO-INSPIRE is a game-changer for the widening regions of Central and Southeastern Europe, unlocking the power of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. Together, we are paving the way for a future where the bioeconomy thrives, driving both economic growth and environmental resilience,” said Dr. Yannis Fallas, Director of CLuBE and project coordinator.
Project Details:
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Start Date: 1 May 2025
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Duration: 36 months
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Budget: €2,999,180.00
Stay Connected
To learn more and follow the progress of BIO-INSPIRE, read the press release here and follow the BIO-INSPIRE LinkedIn page to stay updated on how the project is connecting clusters, advancing bio-based innovation, and paving the way for greener, more resilient economies.
Together, we’re shaping a greener, more inclusive, and innovation-driven bioeconomy across Europe’s widening regions.
