Strengthening the European Research Area by enhancing the bioeconomy research and innovation ecosystem in BIOEAST countries

The main goal of this opportunity is to strengthen research and innovation in sustainable natural resources. It focuses on soil and water resilience, food systems security, and the sustainable use of biomass in the bioeconomy. The initiative aims to boost the capacities of research organizations and stakeholders, especially in Central and Eastern Europe, Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans. By encouraging collaboration and integrated approaches, it supports climate neutrality, biodiversity protection, and the development of a circular and sustainable bioeconomy. This opportunity is part of a broader effort to enhance regional cooperation and address shared challenges in these fields.

• Projects must focus on enhancing research and innovation in the bioeconomy, specifically targeting soil and water resilience, food systems security, or sustainable biomass use.
• Proposals should show potential for significant impact and scalability across regions.
• Applicants must engage ministries, research funders, and thematic networks in their activities.
• Projects should build frameworks for communication and coordination among bioeconomy program owners and managers.
• Collaboration with the BIOEAST Initiative and experienced EU Member States is required.
• Proposals must align and create synergies with ongoing and past bioeconomy governance projects.

Examples:

• A project that creates a regional network to share best practices in sustainable soil management among BIOEAST countries.
• An initiative that brings together ministries and research organizations from Central and Eastern Europe to coordinate water resilience strategies.
• A collaborative program to develop and promote sustainable biomass valorization methods, involving both experienced EU partners and BIOEAST stakeholders.

• Personnel costs for project staff
• Travel and accommodation for project activities
• Costs for organizing workshops, seminars, and meetings
• Communication and dissemination activities
• Development of digital platforms and tools
• Purchase of materials and small equipment related to project implementation
• Subcontracting specific tasks or expertise
• Costs for monitoring and evaluation of project progress
• Training and capacity-building activities

Expenses are funded as a lump sum. Detailed guidance and templates for budget preparation are available through the official application portal. Restrictions or specific instructions must be followed as outlined in the application documents.

• Budget for this Call: 4.000.000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1

• Applicants must be based in BIOEAST countries or EU accession countries, with a focus on Central and Eastern Europe, Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans.
• Proposals should involve collaboration with ministries, research funders, and thematic networks.
• Projects must engage with the BIOEAST Initiative and, where relevant, EU Member States experienced in joint research initiatives.
• Applicants should demonstrate the ability to coordinate and communicate with bioeconomy program owners and managers.
• Proposals must align with and leverage synergies from ongoing or past bioeconomy projects.
• Eligibility may depend on forming networks or partnerships, especially with relevant stakeholders in the region.
• Further eligibility details can be found in the official application documents and guidance materials.