Preparatory project development of a foodtech ecosystem within BSR, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship.

Purpose and goal:

The proposed main project aimed to build an innovation ecosystem that develops methods, processes and services for the benefit of SMEs in foodtech.

During the prepapatory project, a clear structure for participating parties, common impact logic and work package (WP) distribution was worked out. The consortium was strengthened with complementary parties.

The goal of the preparatory project was to apply to the Interreg Baltic Sea Region program 2021-2027 for priority number 1. Innovative societies, and towards the program goal 1.1 Resilient economies and communities. This objective has been achieved. Expected results and effects:

The proposed main project should contribute to innovative power, sustainable growth and a more resilient food system. The main project should also involve knowledge transfer.

The preparatory project was expected to lead to an application to Interreg BSR and a strong project consortium with a clear common objective.

During the preparatory project a strong consortium has been formed which has agreed on a common objective. An application has been made to Interreg BSR which unfortunately has not been granted. It is likely that further applications will be made to realize the project idea. Approach and implementation:

The work has been divided into 4 WPs: WP1 Preparation.

WP2 Mapping of resources and strengths to adapt the innovation ecosystems and support the building of resilience and entrepreneurship. WP3 Meetings and workshops. WP4 Writing of application. The project participants met physically in September 2022 in Kaunas Litauen. The work order has been followed with some modification of the schedule to comply with the Interreg timeline.

The preparatory project begun with a physical meeting, which has built trust in the group and deeply understanding of all participants.