April 2025 was a month packed with events and networking opportunities for Valorial. By taking part in several major European events, we have strengthened our ties with key partners from academia, industry, European institutions and public authorities. These valuable connections could also become yours in the future, as part of your innovation projects. A look back at four highlights of the month:
CBE Info Days: focus on the circular bioeconomy
Organised by the European partnership Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU), this event provided an opportunity to learn about the calls for proposals currently open in the field of the bioeconomy. Among the themes highlighted this year were alternative proteins, macroalgae, bio-based polymers and plant-fibre-based packaging.
Of the 13 open calls, 9 fall under the Innovation Actions (IA), which aim to accelerate the transition from research to market. There are also several Flagship projects, large-scale initiatives that roll out major innovations at European level.
ERIAFF Network Annual Meeting: Cooperation between European regions
The ERIAFF network (European Regions for Innovation in Agriculture, Food and Forestry) brings together 53 regions and 39 observers from 21 European countries. Established in 2012 in Florence (Italy), it is an informal association of regional authorities that facilitates cooperation between regional authorities on shared issues relating to agriculture, food and forestry.
Valorial is particularly involved in two working groups:
- Alternative proteins
- Healthy food
Franco-Belgian Agrifood Summit: sharing Innovation in the Agri-Food Sector
Organised in partnership with the France-Belgium Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this Franco-Belgian event brought together researchers and businesses to discuss the latest developments in agritech and foodtech. Valorial took part in a panel discussion focusing on the impact of climate change on innovation, a cross-cutting issue for many R&I projects.
Biodiversa+: shaping the future of biodiversity
Finally, Valorial took part in the annual meeting of the Stakeholder Board of Biodiversa+, a European partnership that supports biodiversity research with significant societal and political impact. This programme forms part of the European Biodiversity Strategy to 2030.
Valorial will be fully involved in the preparatory work for the forthcoming 2026 calls for proposals.
By taking part in these events, Valorial is continuing its commitment to connecting European ecosystems in order to foster the emergence and success of sustainable innovation projects.
