From Local Challenges to Circular Solutions: The BioRural Journey
The BioRural project, funded by Horizon Europe, started with a big goal: to make the bioeconomy a real opportunity for rural communities across Europe. For three years, the project focused on three key areas—sharing practical knowledge, building strong networks, and developing business models that rural areas can actually use. At its heart, BioRural wanted to show that local resources and everyday challenges can be turned into smart, circular solutions that not only help the environment but also create new chances for rural people and businesses.
Building a Legacy of Rural Bioeconomy Innovation
Over its journey, BioRural delivered results that truly made an impact. It built the BioRural Toolkit, a practical guide full of bio-based opportunities, and set up the European Rural Bioeconomy Network to keep ideas and people connected. Through regional workshops, the EU Bioeconomy Challenge Final, and the European Rural Circular Bioeconomy Conference, the project gave a stage to innovators and rural voices. And with 35 inspiring success stories from 12 countries, it proved that the bioeconomy is already here—whether it’s turning olive waste into clean energy, creating biodegradable straws, or producing natural fish feed, rural Europe is leading the way.
The team behind the BioRural project
But what truly made BioRural special were the people behind it—the 19 partners from 14 European countries who brought the project to life. From researchers and policy experts to entrepreneurs, farmers, and community leaders, each partner contributed their own passion, expertise, and local knowledge. Together, they didn’t just collaborate—they built a community united by a shared belief in the power of rural innovation. Their dedication, creativity, and teamwork were the driving force behind every success, and their voices best capture the spirit and legacy of BioRural.
“It’s been inspiring to work with so many partners and stakeholders and to see rural circular bioeconomy initiatives and businesses taking shape across Europe — a powerful reminder that rural communities, often overlooked, are needed to build Europe’s future.”
Bas Paris, Centre for Research and Technology | Project Coordinator
“BioRural has beautifully shown the power of collaboration when diverse voices come together around a shared vision. For us at reframe.food, it’s been a joy and an honor to help connect partners, share inspiring stories, and bring innovative rural solutions to wider audiences. The spirit of this project has not only sparked meaningful conversations but also planted seeds for a lasting and flourishing impact in Europe’s rural bioeconomy.”
Despina Kampouridou, reframe.food | Communications Manager
“Through BioRural we have learnt from early adopters and providers of innovative bioeconomy solutions, how they persist and overcome difficulties to turn ideas into real solutions. Getting in touch with so many key actors engaged in knowledge sharing with primary producers, holding those conversations and exchanging viewpoints has been an invaluable reward. Working on BioRural has been an unparalleled experience with an exceptional team — one we would gladly do again and again.”
Daniel García Galindo, AVEBIOM
“What often goes unseen in a project like this is the workflow behind the scenes. Many projects achieve results and create impact, but what sets BioRural apart—even as a large partnership—is how smoothly it operates. It works like a clock and feels like a family. With that kind of foundation, there’s truly nothing more one could ask for to give their best.”
Diego Rossi, AIEL
“From participating in BioRural, I gained valuable insights into rural bioeconomy practices and innovative small-scale bio-based solutions that can support sustainable development. What I found most rewarding was the opportunity to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, exchange practical experiences, and see how shared ideas can inspire real impact in rural communities.”
Magdalena Borzęcka, IUNG
“As a junior engineer, BioRural gave me invaluable first-hand experience—every task was a new challenge that helped me grow in confidence and develop my project management skills. I particularly enjoyed diving into the world of bio-based circular solutions and bioeconomy in general, which I found truly fascinating. Above all, connecting with inspiring people and discovering new places has been the most rewarding part of this journey.”
André Pires, CBE
“Participation in the BioRural project has been highly valuable for LBTU, providing significant opportunities to enhance our understanding of bioeconomic solutions. Engagement in the project has facilitated the expansion and strengthening of our stakeholder network, as well as enabled the successful organization of numerous local and international activities. Notably, the most substantial benefit derived from this collaboration has been the identification and connection with an unexpectedly large number of stakeholders within the bioeconomy sector. The experience, knowledge, and networks developed through this project will be retained and utilized by our institution beyond the project’s conclusion.”
Una Veipane, LBTU
“Participating in BioRural has been an inspiring journey and a valuable opportunity to build a unique platform for connecting with leading organizations across Europe in the bioeconomy sector. Together, we explored innovative and practical solutions to advance rural bioeconomy development. What I found most rewarding was the collaborative spirit and rich knowledge exchange, which brought fresh perspectives to addressing local bioeconomy challenges in North Macedonia.”
Natasha Ristovska, Green Growth Platform
A heartfelt thank you to the entire BioRural team and to all the stakeholders who accompanied, supported, and trusted us throughout this three-year journey. The impact we created together will continue to resonate and grow, thanks to your commitment and collaboration!
