Calling for innovative solutions to boost the bioeconomy across the BIOEAST macro-region.
Are you a forward-thinking innovator working in the bioeconomy?
Join us to boost the bioeconomy in the BIOEAST macro-region!
What is the BIOEAST Open Innovation Challenge?
The BIOEAST Open Innovation Challenge (OIC) is a collaborative initiative, and a unique platform designed to accelerate bioeconomy innovation across the BIOEAST macro-region in key bioeconomy sectors.
The BIOEAST OIC brings together bioeconomy hubs and clusters, leading companies and start-ups, universities, researchers, students and talented individuals to drive meaningful impact.
How does it work?
The BIOEAST HUBs – national collaborative platforms that gather key bioeconomy stakeholders – have identified key problems to overcome, and opportunities to realise for the development of a sustainable bioeconomy in Central and Eastern Europe. These have been grouped into eight key themes, each focusing on specific issues that need to be addressed. Innovators from the BIOEAST countries are invited to submit their solutions to help close these innovation gaps.
BIOEAST HUBs, acting as challenge owners, will evaluate and select the most suitable solutions for their concrete context. Selected innovators will have the opportunity to pitch their solutions at the BIOEAST pitching events to identify suitable partnerships for their further development.
Why participate?
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to:
- Pitch their solutions to relevant investors
- Meet key bioeconomy stakeholders from the BIOEAST HUBs and BIOEAST Thematic Working Groups and explore collaborations
- Engage with like-minded professionals, researchers, and organisations
- Expand their personal network
- Gain wide recognition
- Receive additional benefits
Type of solutions we are looking for
We welcome solutions at any stage of development, from early ideas to market-ready products. Whether you’re just shaping a new concept or have a proven solution ready to scale, we want to hear from you.
Who can apply?
Nationals and residents of Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia with a great idea or solution are welcome to join the BIOEAST OIC.
Prizes
Win the chance to pitch at BIOEAST pitching events
Successful applicants will be eligible for participation in the BIOEAST pitching events organised in 2026 in Hungary, Slovenia, Estonia, Bulgaria and Czechia, with travel support provided.
The pitching events aim to mobilise private investments and other sources of capital towards BIOEAST stakeholders, thus improving the macro-region’s bioeconomy growth potential both at proof of concept (start-up) and growth (scale up) stage.
Participants will have the opportunity to network with key bioeconomy stakeholders, and to showcase and defend their business cases to both local and European investors, potentially unlocking new funding and partnership opportunities.
Prizes offered by the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC)
- The highest scoring non-commercial actor (e.g. university, research institute, etc.) will receive a one-year free Associate BIC Membership.
- The highest scoring company will be invited to a free pitching session, where they will have the opportunity to present their business and expertise to BIC members and explore opportunities for collaboration.
- Both of these winners and also the second highest scoring solution, will be invited to the next BIC Matchmaking Event in Brussels.
Theme-specific awards
In addition, stakeholders from the BIOEAST HUBs and Thematic Working Groups will provide additional benefits to selected applicants. Check the details under each theme to learn more.
How to apply?
- Review the themes description
- Read the application guidelines thoroughly for complete information about eligibility and evaluation
- Submit your solution through this application form
Submit your proposal by 31 October at 23:59 CET.
Join us in boosting the bioeconomy in the BIOEAST!
Timeline
The dates shown in the timeline are subject to change.
You can find more information in the Frequently Asked Questions or contact us at bioeastoic@efi.int