ToBeReaL in Nitra, Slovakia: Advancing the Bioeconomy with Innovation and Collaboration

Held on 27–28 May 2025 in Nitra, Slovakia, the ToBeReaL events gathered key bioeconomy actors across Europe to shape a more sustainable and innovative future.

Day 1: Feedstock Workshop – “Materials of the Future”

Hosted by the Bioeconomy Cluster (BEC), the Feedstock Workshop highlighted the vital role of bio-based feedstocks in real-world applications. The day opened with a warm welcome from Katarína Blicklingová, setting the stage for dynamic presentations and debates around cutting-edge innovations in materials science and sustainability.

Key sessions included:

Empowering Bioeconomy Innovation
Lara Valentin (PNO ES) introduced the strategic role of the ToBeReaL project in driving high-value bioeconomy projects across Europe.

Slovakia’s Bioeconomy in Motion
Francesco Vizzarri (NPPC) and Nataša Hurtová (CVTI SR) shared national insights into challenges and opportunities in bio-based transitions.

Industry Highlights:

Andrej Baco (PANARA) presented next-gen biodegradable plastics.
Juraj Hariš and colleagues (Drž Hubu!) showcased the potential of mycelium-based materials.

CBE JU Info Day
Pilar Llorente (CBE JU) introduced the 2025 call for proposals, inviting new synergies and participation.

The event culminated in a forward-looking panel discussion titled “The Future is Bio-based”, featuring thought leaders from NLC, VÚPC, CBE JU, and grassroots innovators. Participants also enjoyed a tour of PANARA’s production facilities, offering a hands-on glimpse into industrial applications of biodegradable materials.

Day 2: General Assembly – ToBeReaL Project Review and Co-Creation

The General Assembly, held at Hotel Mikado, brought together all project partners to review progress and align on the next phase of implementation.

Highlights included:

Project Status Overview
Lara Valentin (PNO ES) presented project progress, followed by focused updates from Work Package leaders.

Spotlight on WP4: Future Needs and Barriers Across Regions
Led by Dr. Damjan Krajnc (CCIS), WP4 presented six months of coordinated analysis, stakeholder engagement, and data collection across Europe. Key insights include:

Emerging technologies and feedstock availability.

Socio-economic and regulatory bottlenecks.

Social innovation opportunities and regional SWOT mapping.

Capacity Building & Assistance Deployment
WP5 and WP6 updates emphasized frameworks to support bioeconomy actors, backed by findings from WP4.

Interactive Session: “ToBeReaL in Action”
An innovative learning-by-doing workshop allowed all participants to simulate the bioeconomy service assistance process, reinforcing practical skills and collaboration.

The General Assembly concluded with a set of agreed next steps and deliverable deadlines, strengthening commitment across the consortium.

Beyond the Agenda: Culture & Connection
After the first day, participants explored the charming city of Nitra with a guided tour, followed by a networking dinner at the scenic Castellum Café near Nitriansky Hrad. These informal moments reinforced the collaborative spirit of the project and celebrated the shared vision for a bio-based future.