Written by: Ephy Kouzi, FOCUS

Collaboration, Insights, and a Touch of Spring Weather!

Sunglasses, umbrellas – and plenty of ideas! The BBioNets mid-term Plenary Meeting brought together partners from across Europe just outside Thessaloniki, Greece, on 3-4 April 2025, for two days of productive exchange, forward planning, and a little springtime weather drama.

Our hosts at the American Farm School (AFS) offered a warm welcome and an ideal setting for the gathering. Surrounded by nature, the tranquil atmosphere provided an inspiring backdrop for in-depth discussions and collaborative thinking – occasionally punctuated by a sudden downpour or a burst of sunshine. The weather certainly kept things interesting!

At the heart of the meeting were the BBioNets partners. It was a pleasure to reconnect in person, reflect on the project’s progress, and exchange ideas. We explored key challenges, mapped out future steps, and reaffirmed the shared commitment that drives the project forward.

The first day wrapped up with a relaxed social evening, giving everyone a chance to unwind over a shared meal and good conversation in a more informal setting. These moments of connection are more than just enjoyable — building strong ties is just as important as building strong networks!

Highlights from the Meeting

• Project Updates & Progress: We took a closer look at developments across our project, including regional Bio-Based Technologies (BBTs) Roadmaps and their integration into the BBT Assessment Tool — both key resources in advancing sustainable agriculture. We also previewed an upcoming initiative: the European Cross-Fertilisation Workshop to Boost EIP-AGRI Operational Groups, which BBioNets has initiated and will co-organise this May.
• Looking Ahead: Planning discussions focused on the next stages of the project, ensuring we stay aligned with our goals and maintain momentum moving forward. The road ahead looks promising, with more developments on the horizon.
• A Taste of Thessaloniki: Beyond the meeting room, some partners took the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Thessaloniki — a place rich in history, culture, and excellent cuisine. It was a welcome opportunity to relax and take in the local atmosphere.

A Sincere Thank You

We extend our thanks to the American Farm School for their warm hospitality and for hosting a memorable evening. And of course, a big thank you to all the BBioNets partners — your dedication, passion, and collaborative spirit continue to drive the project forward. We are all looking forward to everything we will achieve together in the months ahead!