COOPeration of bioeconomy clusters for bio-based knowledge transfer via Innovative Dissemination techniques in the primary production sector

Bioeconomy starts on the fields, yet meaningful participation of the primary sector in the bioeconomy is currently challenged, especially due to:
(i) poor cooperation and knowledge transfer between relevant stakeholders,
(ii) limited support to invest in R&D of new value chains.
To answer this challenge, the COOPID project proposes an effective strategy to mobilise primary producers and stimulate the uptake of inclusive and sustainable bio-based business models in the European primary production sector, considering regional & sectorial conditions.
To do so, a network of COOPID Bioeconomy Clusters from 10 European countries has been created ad-hoc, involving a range of stakeholders: (a) primary producers, in cooperatives or associations, within agriculture, forestry & aquaculture, (b) industry, (c) public sector, (d) research & academia. We have already the commitment to participate of 73 entities.
We will foster the deployment of innovative bio-based business models in the primary production based on a four-level knowledge transfer approach:
-Selecting “Success Story Showcases” across different EU countries among the network which will be visited in person by the participants from the network - “COOPID ambassadors”- (level 1),
-Organising workshops to be done by the “COOPID ambassadors” for sharing main highlights of their visit to the “success story” among their peer primary producers (level 2),
-Carrying out interactive dissemination & communication engaging other target audiences (levels 3&4).
Focus will be put on mobilisation of female and young producers as having a great potential to innovate yet being underrepresented in the primary production sector.
Recommendations for primary producers, policy-makers and academia & research will be elaborated, fostering better understanding of different perspectives on bioeconomy, having a significant impact on a wide bioeconomy deployment in primary production, reaching a broad audience (estimated at 9,500 stakeholders).