With Mainstreambio’s official completion ahead, let’s explore more insights from the EuRCBC
As MainstreamBIO approaches its official completion, it is the perfect moment to look back and reflect on the valuable knowledge shared during the project’s final dissemination event. Held on 14 May 2025 in Brussels, as part of the European Rural Circular Bioeconomy Conference (EuRCBC), this event showcased the breadth of innovation, policy progress, and practical solutions driving Europe’s rural bioeconomy forward.
Although the project’s conclusion is near, the wealth of insights and discussions from that day continues to resonate and guide future developments in the sector
The event attracted 145+ stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and rural practitioners. This diversity of perspectives ignited a vibrant dialogue on the challenges and opportunities within the bioeconomy, emphasizing how collaborative efforts can accelerate sustainable rural development. The first day opened with thought-provoking keynote speeches from European Commission representatives, who set the stage by outlining the current policy landscape and strategic priorities for bioeconomy growth.
These were followed by dynamic project presentations and interactive sessions that provided an in-depth look into how each initiative contributes uniquely to this collective effort.
One of the standout elements was the presentation of MainstreamBIO’s Replication Guide and Digital Toolkit. Developed through close collaboration with regional stakeholders and validated via mutual learning workshops, these tools are designed to support practitioners in scaling small-scale bio-based solutions. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with these resources and provide valuable feedback, reinforcing their relevance and usability in diverse rural contexts.
Complementing this, a dedicated panel showcased inspiring success stories from projects funded by the EU, highlighting tangible impacts that are already improving environmental and economic outcomes in rural communities. The policy roundtable “Implementation of Small-scale BIO-based Solutions Across Rural Europe” offered a critical platform to discuss institutional, regulatory, and market challenges. Key takeaways included the need for clearer regulatory frameworks, enhanced financial support mechanisms, and stronger stakeholder networks to overcome barriers to adoption.
Moreover, reflections from MainstreamBIO and sister projects underscored the importance of aligning local, regional, and EU policies to create an enabling environment for bioeconomy innovations. Coordinated policy recommendations emerged, aimed at fostering coherence between strategies and funding streams that will sustain momentum beyond the project lifecycle.
As we reflect on these rich discussions and collective achievements, it becomes clear that MainstreamBIO’s impact goes beyond its official timeline. The tools, networks and policy dialogues supported during the project will continue to inspire and support rural communities across Europe in their transition toward a circular and sustainable bioeconomy.
Our second project meeting will take place in Cork, Ireland on March 22-23!
MainstreamBIO’s 2nd Progress Meeting is scheduled to take place in Cork (Ireland) on the 22
Our MIP’s co-creation workshops are on their way!
Between April and May 2023, a co-creation workshop will be organized by the consortium partners INNV
Introducing the Regional Innovation Valleys for Bioeconomy and Food Systems !
The Regional Innovation Valleys for Bioeconomy and Food Systems will contribute to the New European