Strengthening the European Research Area by enhancing the bioeconomy research and innovation ecosystem in BIOEAST countries 

Project results are expected to deliver all the following: 1. Improved R&I capacities in the bioeconomy macro-region by strengthening soil and water resilience, enhancing food systems security and advancing sustainable biomass valorisation via modern biorefinery and biomanufacturing techniques. 2. Enhanced coordination and collaboration among stakeholders (ministries, research funders, managers, networks) at local, national, macro-regional and EU levels, fostering a shared vision for climate neutrality and an inclusive, sustainable circular bioeconomy. 3. A strengthened macro-regional R&I ecosystem through integration of public and private actors, leading to tangible joint projects that drive fair socio-economic development, environmental sustainability, biodiversity loss reduction and climate action. 4. A reinforced European Research Area via a jointly developed roadmap and identification of emerging thematic areas for multidisciplinary R&I cooperation (environmental science, ecology, biodiversity), supporting long-term policy coherence and science-policy interfaces.

- Proposals must target the alignment of R&I agendas for sustainable natural resources in BIOEAST and EU accession countries (with emphasis on Ukraine, Moldova, Western Balkans).- Must focus on soil and water resilience, food systems security and sustainable biomass valorisation (modern biorefinery concepts, biomanufacturing techniques).- Consortia must include: (a) research funders and managers, (b) thematic networks from the macro-region, and (c) at least one entity from EU Member States with proven experience in managing joint R&I initiatives.- Mandatory collaboration with the BIOEAST Initiative and stakeholder engagement at ministerial and programme-management levels.- Demonstrate potential for impact and scalability of proposed coordination/support activities.- Ensure synergies and avoid duplication by engaging with past and ongoing bioeconomy governance projects and with the Circular Bio-based Europe JU widening strategy.- Contribute to: mobilising resources across levels; establishing communication/coordination frameworks; enhancing long-term cooperation supporting widening and EU enlargement; and achieving coherence across research, policy and funding instruments toward climate neutrality, biodiversity preservation and inclusive circular bioeconomy.