On December 16, the University of Algarve (Gambelas Campus),Faro, hosted a Networking Session under the IberoBio project, promoted by GreenCoLab. The event was organised and moderated by Ana Ramos, Project Manager at GreenCoLab, and brought together stakeholders, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry representatives from the blue biotechnology sector.
The session opened with a welcome address by Dr. Alexandra Teodósio, Rector of the University of Algarve, who highlighted the strategic role of science, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration in advancing sustainable development at both regional and international levels.
Held under the theme “Blue Biotechnology: Challenges, Opportunities, and Intersectoral Synergies”, the event aimed to stimulate collaborative innovation, foster strategic partnerships, and support the development of innovative projects and entrepreneurial initiatives within the blue biotechnology ecosystem.
The program featured a diverse group of speakers from leading research institutions, companies, and innovation hubs. João Navalho (Necton) shared an industry-oriented perspective on the industrial-scale production of microalgae. Daniela Fazenda and Dina Simões (CCMAR – Centre of Marine Sciences) addressed key topics related to the Circular Blue Bioeconomy and sustainable marine-based solutions. Camilly Fratelli (Allmicroalgae) presented the company as a driving force in microalgae cultivation and production for global markets.
Madalena Mendes (ALGAplus) introduced the company as a macroalgal producer and shared insights into the challenges and opportunities of algae aquaculture, including production scalability, sustainability, and market integration.
António Vieira (Vale da Lama Fish Farm) showcased innovative approaches in sea bass and gilthead seabream aquaculture. At the same time, Hugo Barros (CRIA – Regional Innovation Centre) highlighted entrepreneurship and funding opportunities in innovation and blue biotechnology. Hugo Pereira (GreenCoLab) focused on sustainable algae-based biotechnological solutions and the importance of intersectoral synergies across the value chain.
The session provided valuable insights into future-oriented topics, including innovation pathways, sustainability challenges, financing mechanisms, and business development in blue biotechnology.
A key highlight was the intervention by Dr Maria de Lurdes Carvalho, representing CCDR Algarve (Regional Coordination and Development Commission), who discussed the challenges and opportunities of the bioeconomy in the Algarve region, emphasising alignment with European and international strategies.
The event concluded with a networking session and an exchange of experiences, underscoring the importance of collaboration among science, industry, and regional stakeholders as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth in blue biotechnology.
