HU
Within the framework of the BIOEAST project, the Open Innovation Challenge (OIC) has been launched to accelerate innovation across key bioeconomy sectors. This collaborative initiative brings together students, researchers, start-ups, companies, and stakeholders to co-create sustainable solutions addressing real bioeconomy challenges.
About the Challenge
The BIOEAST OIC seeks innovative ideas and solutions within eight priority themes:
- Resilient small and medium-sized farms
- Biomass logistics
- Biowaste reduction and valorization
- Sustainable bioenergy
- Innovative wood technologies
- Monitoring agri-food and forestry systems
- Stakeholder engagement and collaboration
- Raising awareness of the circular bioeconomy
Applications are open from 15 September until 15 November 2025. Proposals will be evaluated by the national BIOEAST HUBs, which will select the most promising solutions.
What’s in it for Participants?
Winners of the Challenge will gain the opportunity to:
- Pitch their solutions at exclusive networking events with bioeconomy stakeholders.
- Showcase innovations to both local and European investors.
- Benefit from additional prizes offered by the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC) and other BIOEAST partners.
Who Can Apply?
The Challenge is open to a broad range of applicants including:
- Students passionate about sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship can showcase their creativity while tackling real-world challenges.
- Researchers can translate their scientific findings into applied solutions, expand networks, and co-create pathways for regional and European bioeconomy strategies.
- Start-ups and companies can pitch scalable, practical solutions, gain visibility across the BIOEAST macro-region, connect with investors, researchers, and policymakers, and explore opportunities for funding and collaboration.
The BIOEAST OIC is a unique platform to turn ideas into market-ready solutions, accelerate bio-based innovations, and contribute to shaping the bioeconomy transition.
Find more information on the themes, prizes, and application guidelines here.
