Online platform launched to aid researchers

A Horizon 2020 project that aims to speed up transfer of knowledge from bioeconomy research projects to business, social innovation and policy has launched its online platform for European researchers working in the food, fisheries, agriculture, forests and biotechnology sectors.

As the central hub of the ‘Communicating and Bridging BioEconomy Research to Business’, or  CommBeBiz project, the platform will enable researchers to join a community promoting two-way engagement and interaction, from meeting and networking to sharing information with other researchers and stakeholders. Members will also have access to tailormade and targeted activities for training, testing, matchmaking and the enhancement of European Commission-funded bioeconomy research projects.

Rhonda Smith, CommBeBiz project co-ordinator and director of project partner Minerva Health & Care Communications, said: “We are delighted to offer this free, comprehensive resource to help all involved in bioeconomy research connect, learn and create impact for their projects and ideas. Our message is to register as soon as possible, whatever your stage of research, to take early advantage of our interactive and informative content.

“We’ll continue to develop the platform throughout the lifespan of the CommBeBiz project to ensure it delivers consistent, relevant and quality support.”

A range of resources is set to be available, including project briefs, webinars, innovation catalogues, expert blogs, training events and videos; a library building is expected to be accessible in due course. Once registered, members will be able to benefit from several additional support opportunities.

The Coordination & Support Action project runs until 2018 and has a budget of €1.69m, of which €1.67m is drawn from the EU. The project is co-ordinated by Minerva Health & Care Communications in the UK, and the consortium also includes partners from Belgium and Ireland.