About the RIBES project
RIBES seeks to transition ten European regions from outdated, linear economic approaches to dynamic, circular economic models that foster social inclusion. To do so, RIBES will empower the collaboration between rural community actors, universities, governments and businesses to co-create inclusive and sustainable regional government and bio-based business models that will accelerate growth.
Specifically, these models will utilise the innovation of digital solutions to connect and inform stakeholders while facilitating value chain development and market access for bio-based products and services. By leveraging the synergies between the stakeholders and the bio-based ecosystem, RIBES aims to deliver innovative governance models that support social entrepreneurship in deploying a circular bioeconomy that promotes sustainable rural development and creates inclusive job opportunities.

Why is it important?
A sustainable and inclusive bioeconomy is vital for addressing global environmental challenges and fostering green jobs within the EU and its Neighbourhood Countries. Despite its promising potential and significant R&D investments, progress in the bioeconomy sector has been slow, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. Several barriers contribute to this slow progress, including:
1. Limited understanding of bioeconomy concepts
2. Insufficient market awareness
3. Lack of skills and resources among stakeholders
4. Underdeveloped value chains and infrastructure

Why the RIBES project matters?

Innovative Governance Models:
We are pioneering new ways to govern and support the bioeconomy, ensuring it is resilient and adaptable to changing circumstances.

Community-Centric Approach:
Our focus on rural communities ensures that development is locally relevant and beneficial.

Sustainability at the Core:
Every initiative under RIBES is designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring long-term viability and environmental health.

Inclusive Economic Growth:
RIBES fosters inclusive and economic growth by bridging the gap between social entrepreneurship and the bio-based economy.
Project Information
Regional Inclusive Biobased Entrepreneurship Solutions, or simply, RIBES.
RIBES is a Research and Innovation Action project funded by the new Horizon Europe Programme with a total duration of thirty-six (36) months and a total budget of approximately five million euros.
Funding Scheme
Horizon Research and Innovation Actions
Grant Agreement
ID: 101134911
Funding Received
€ 4,999,455.00
Starting Date
1 March 2024
End Date
28 February 2027
Funded Under
Food, Bioeconomy Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment