FRIBOURG OPENS THE VIRTUOUS CIRCLE OF THE BIOECONOMY
BIOECONOMY FORUM | 11.10.2024

Two hundred personalities from Switzerland, France and Germany came to Fribourg to experience the Bioeconomy Forum on October 10, 2024. The event showcased the potential of this high value-added field and lifted the veil on Fribourg’s ecosystem, where universities, institutes, clusters and economic sectors are cultivating synergies at the interface between the economy and biomass valorization.

On October 10, 2024, the heart of the bioeconomy beat in Fribourg. The Bioeconomy Forum, organized by the Fribourg Development Agency (FDA), brought together 200 personalities from all over Switzerland and neighboring countries in bluefactory Building B. In the space of half a day, the event offered a unique insight into the added value of this sector, the living economy, where everything is transformed and nothing is lost. At the same time, the Bioeconomy Forum showcased the potential of Fribourg’s economic fabric in this field, which is one of the priorities of the canton’s economic development strategy.

An ecosystem already in place

Two sessions dedicated to biomass and the development of high value-added products were at the heart of the program. Participants had the opportunity to meet project leaders, from the valorization of whey for sports nutrition to the development of biotechnologies or new bio-inspired materials. This hands-on immersion highlighted the ecosystem already in place in the canton, where universities, institutes, clusters and economic sectors are cultivating synergies at the interface between the economy and biomass development. The aim is to continue opening up these activities and networks to interested individuals, companies and institutions over the coming years, in particular through the activities of the Food and Nutrition and Swiss Plastics Clusters.

An audience from all over Switzerland and neighboring countries

The Bioeconomy Forum attracted visitors from Switzerland, France and Germany: company directors, R&D managers and innovation players were able to develop their network and knowledge of the canton thanks to this unique event in Switzerland. A delegation from the French Grand-Est region, also active in the bioeconomy, travelled to Fribourg as part of the partnership that has linked the region and Fribourg for over ten years.

The Paris Innovation Club on a mission to Fribourg

The Bioeconomy Forum welcomed some 50 members of the Club de Paris des Directeurs de l’Innovation. This French association brings together French government organizations, innovation managers from some 100 innovative companies listed on the Paris stock exchange, and institutions promoting research and innovation. Its aim is to encourage the development of innovations that meet the needs generated by changes in society.