Prague, 12 December 2024 – The Second Annual National Bioeconomy Congress, organized by BIOEAST HUB CR and the Technology Center under the auspices of the Minister of Agriculture, showcased the transformative potential of European Partnerships as a key driver for advancing the Czech Republic’s bioeconomy. The event focused on exploring funding mechanisms and fostering international collaboration to enhance the nation’s role in innovative bioeconomic projects.
The congress brought together policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to emphasize the critical role of European Partnerships in securing financial resources and promoting sustainable development. Through expert presentations and discussions, the event highlighted successful examples and best practices while addressing the challenges of integrating Czech organizations into international bioeconomic frameworks.
Esteemed speakers shared insights into the strategic importance of these partnerships. Šárka Štejnarová from the Ministry of Agriculture highlighted their potential to address sustainability challenges while fostering cross-sector collaboration aligned with EU priorities. Despite these successes, she acknowledged the financial constraints limiting broader participation, stating, “The Ministry of Agriculture is committed to fostering partnerships, but further financial resources are essential to expand our involvement.”Further enriching the discussions, Rastislav Raši, leader of the BIOEAST Forestry Thematic Working Group, presented developments within the EUFORE Partnership. He highlighted the creation of the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA), which strengthens transdisciplinary collaboration to address shared challenges in forestry across Europe. His remarks underlined the need for continued engagement in partnerships to unlock funding opportunities and address sector-specific issues. Lucie Nunez from the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports provided updates on the Czech Republic’s position within the upcoming FP10 framework, Monika Kocmanová from the Czech Health Research Council shared valuable insights into the successes of health-related EU partnerships, offering lessons for other bioeconomic sectors to emulate. Táňa Halová Perglová from the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic emphasized the importance of active stakeholder advocacy, encouraging participants to engage with relevant ministries to secure the resources necessary for success. Throughout the congress, speakers highlighted the transformative power of European Partnerships to foster international collaboration, secure funding, and drive innovation. However, financial and administrative barriers remain key challenges.
Concluding the event, BIOEAST HUB CR coordinators Marie Kubáňková and Jan Nedělník reiterated the organization’s commitment to strengthening the Czech Republic’s bioeconomic position on the global stage. The congress underscored the importance of European Partnerships as a vital tool for advancing innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in the Czech Republic’s bioeconomy. By fostering collaboration and aligning national efforts with EU priorities, the country is poised to fully harness the transformative potential of these initiatives.
The congress conclusion can be found at this link
Markéta Mužíková
BIOEAST HUB CR
