Workshop with companies

Just one day after our official opening, on 10 September 2025, we held our first workshop in Plovdiv. The event brought together researchers from the Agricultural University, SME managers and innovation intermediaries from Switzerland and Bulgaria, creating a lively forum for networking, exchanging ideas and exploring concrete projects.

After an introductory networking coffee, the agenda continued with interactive discussions in which CCBRE and AU researchers collaborated with SMEs to form draft partner groups. The emphasis was placed on circular bioeconomy and digital agriculture pilots, with three focus topics explored in parallel workshops.

Outcomes and next steps

The workshop showcased our role as a bridge between science, business and policy. Each team identified immediate follow-up actions:

Rose petals: equipment scouting, industry engagement and baseline data collection.

Black garlic: preparation of a detailed business and marketing plan.

Wood utilisation: preparation of academic research and feasibility studies.

Participants also emphasised opportunities for support from the Swiss Bulgarian Cooperation Programme, EU-Funding and other sources.

Conclusion

Our first workshop served as a dynamic starting point for the implementation of applied bioeconomy projects in Bulgaria. By connecting researchers with industry and innovation intermediaries, the Centre has set in motion concrete steps towards circular solutions, ranging from the valorisation of rose-petal residues to the scaling up of black garlic production and the exploration of wood utilisation.

This event marks the beginning of a series of collaborative initiatives that will establish CCBRE's role as a catalyst for sustainable innovation in the region.