RECONNECT

The creation of a sustainable ecosystem that combines technological innovation with traditional craftsmanship is the essence of RECONNECT. This project promotes the circular economy in the Mediterranean by reusing waste from fisheries and aquaculture to transform it into high value-added bio-based products.

RECONNECT brings together SMEs, artisans, industries, and local communities to strengthen cooperation between sectors that rarely collaborate, fostering a sustainable blue economy based on innovation, creativity, and social inclusion.

Throughout the project, tools will be tested with 130 Mediterranean SMEs, including an open innovation methodology, a digital platform based on artificial intelligence to facilitate collaborations, and a RECONNECT Toolkit with guides and services that will support companies in their transition toward circular and sustainable business models.

The ultimate goal is to create a solid Mediterranean network that combines environmental sustainability with economic and social growth, ensuring the durability of the results beyond the project’s lifetime.

Key Information

Acronym: RECONNECT
 Thematic Objective: RSO1.1 Development and enhancement of research and innovation capacities and the uptake of advanced technologies
 Priority: Smarter MED
 Participating Countries: Italy, Spain, Greece, Croatia, Albania, Montenegro

Financial Data

Total Budget: €2,126,450
 European Union Contribution: €1,701,160 (80%)
 Project Co-financing: 20%

Highlights

Objective

To foster collaboration between large and small enterprises and integrate craft-based SMEs into industrial symbiosis ecosystems, enhancing the reuse of waste from the fishery and aquaculture sectors through innovation services and advanced technological solutions.

What will be improved?

RECONNECT aims to transform waste from the fishery and aquaculture sectors into valuable resources, reducing environmental impact and creating new economic opportunities. The project introduces green technologies, open innovation methodologies, and sustainable business models that will drive the Mediterranean blue economy. Its innovative approach combines traditional craftsmanship with industrial technology, strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of SMEs.

Who will benefit?

· SMEs and artisans in the fishery and aquaculture sectors
 · Business clusters and sectoral associations
 · Universities and research centers
 · Regional and local authorities
 · Environmental NGOs
 · Coastal communities and the general public

Expected Results

· 1 joint open innovation methodology for the blue economy
 · 1 AI-based tool to foster collaboration among SMEs
 · 1 RECONNECT Mediterranean network with over 11 organizations cooperating transnationally
 · 2 practical guides to help SMEs adapt to circular ecosystems
 · 3 transnational and cross-sector innovation pilot units
 · 1 Position Paper on transition pathways toward industrial symbiosis in the blue economy
 · Over 130 SMEs directly involved and benefiting

Project in Figures

· Duration: 33 months
 · Start Date: January 1, 2025
 · End Date: September 30, 2027
 · 9 main partners and 2 associated entities
 · Key sectors: Fisheries, aquaculture, and algae

More information: https://reconnect.interreg-euro-med.eu/