Project BIO-Boost’s Partner Meeting, Study Visit, and Hackathon in Warsaw, Poland
14/05/2024
Project BIO-Boost's Partner Meeting, Study Visit, and Hackathon in Slovenia
June 11th to 14th, 2024
Project BIO-Boost recently convened a series of inspiring events in Slovenia from June 11th to 14th, 2024. This gathering featured a partner meeting, an in-depth study visit, and an engaging hackathon aimed at driving innovation and collaboration within the bioeconomy sector.
Day 1: Visiting ACIES BIO Ltd.
The first day of the Project BIO-Boost study visit in Slovenia was both insightful and inspirational. Partners had the unique opportunity to tour ACIES BIO Ltd., a leading European microbial biotechnology company. The visit included an exploration of their state-of-the-art fermentation facilities and an in-depth look at their innovative SmartRoute platform.
Key achievements of ACIES BIO Ltd.:
- Strain Development: Advanced techniques in developing microbial strains.
- Fermentation Process Development: Cutting-edge fermentation technologies.
- Downstream Processing (DSP) Development: Efficient processes for product recovery and purification.
ACIES BIO's integrated R&D capabilities and streamlined project management have paved the way for numerous industrial technologies and bioprocesses, impacting a wide range of market segments including agriculture, food and feed, biomaterials, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Special thanks to Martin Kavšček, Bor Klančnik, and Urban Udovič for hosting this fascinating visit.
Day 2: Exploring Innovators in the Pomurje Region
On the second day, participants visited two remarkable SMEs in the Pomurje region: Green Point and Hudo Dobro. These companies are leading the way in sustainable food production and waste reduction.
Green Point:
- Traceability and Transparency with Blockchain: Green Point's advanced traceability system, supported by blockchain technology, ensures transparency and trustworthiness throughout their supply chain, from farm to table.
- Community Involvement: Their Living Lab initiative involves consumers in the innovation process, strengthening the connection between producers and consumers.
Hudo Dobro:
- Waste Reduction Initiatives: In collaboration with Green Point, Hudo Dobro transforms surplus fruits and vegetables into delicious products, such as fruit strips made from overripe bananas and apples, and preserved vegetables under the "Hudo zeleno" brand.
- Cultural Preservation: Hudo Dobro also operates Hiša gibanice, where traditional Prleška and Prekmurska gibanica are baked and workshops are held to teach these culinary practices.
Day 3: BIO-Boost DIGI-SI AGRIFOOD Hackathon: Bioeconomy 3.0
The third day featured the exciting BIO-Boost DIGI-SI AGRIFOOD Hackathon, which brought together 5 leading clusters and 8 renowned experts to address key challenges in the agrifood sector and support SMEs in driving digital and social innovation.
Key challenges tackled included:
- Food Circularity for HORECA: Optimizing waste reduction and promoting circular processes in hotels, restaurants, and catering.
- AI & Digital Tools for Food Safety: Leveraging AI and IoT to enhance food safety and traceability in short food supply chains.
- Algae Production as Sustainable Proteins: Exploring the potential of algae as sustainable new ingredients and alternative proteins.
- Novel Brands in Precision Farming: Reimagining consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands with innovative, sustainable farming methods and building farmers' trust in high-tech solutions.
A huge thank you to all partners, clusters, experts, and SMEs for their dedication. Together, we're building a sustainable, innovative agrifood future!
Day 4: Regional Networking Event
The Week for Bioeconomy concluded on June 14th with a vibrant regional event organized by the Green Point Living Lab. This gathering brought together all stakeholders and participants involved in the innovation process. It was an enriching networking event where they exchanged conclusions and insights from the week’s activities.
The closing event provided a unique opportunity for participants to connect, share experiences, and forge new collaborations, further cementing the efforts and innovations achieved throughout the Project BIO-Boost events in Slovenia.
Project BIO-Boost's events in Slovenia successfully highlighted the vital role of innovation and collaboration in advancing the bioeconomy. These gatherings not only showcased leading-edge ideas and projects but also fostered new connections and partnerships, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainable development and intersectoral cooperation.
