What we do

RECONNECT aims to enhance circularity in the Mediterranean area by promoting industrial symbiosis in the blue economy sectors, especially fisheries and aquaculture. The project fosters the uptake of innovative technologies and sustainable business models, and promotes the role of the craft sector encompassing craft-based SMEs and socially innovative practices as a key component of sustainable transformation.

RECONNECT addresses the challenge of fragmented circular economy approaches across the Mediterranean, where medium to large companies follow formalized strategies, while small units apply more spontaneous, unstructured practices. The project targets the recovery and reuse of production residues to convert them into high-value bio-based ingredients.

RECONNECT contributes by demonstrating how technology, business innovation and creative craft practices can fertilise industries and build new symbiotic ecosystems. We promote circularity as a strategic opportunity to build connections between territorially close but traditionally unlinked sectors.

The project proposes a transnational approach by:

• Developing a RECONNECT toolkit, composed of an Open Innovation methodology and an AI-based tool.

• Implementing five pilot actions, involving around 130 SMEs.
  
• Engaging multiple stakeholders through study visits, experience exchange programmes, and innovation brokerage services.

1. A jointly developed and validated RECONNECT toolkit tested by SMEs. 
2. Increased institutional capacity among participating organisations.
3. One position paper promoting transition pathways via Open Innovation.
4. A transborder network supporting sustainable development in aquaculture and fishery sectors beyond the project’s end.