We are excited to share the update about a Hackathon, organised by Bio4Circularity (B4C) Network Premium Member Foodscale Hub. The recent RefreSCAR Hackathon, “Protein Value Chains: Global demand, Local challenges,” brought together innovators, researchers, and practitioners to tackle key challenges in Europe’s protein landscape.
The event welcomed distinguished keynote speakers who presented the European Commission’s policy context and research and innovation (R&I) for protein crops, as well as an overview of alternative proteins in EU’s R&I in processing and consumption: Giulia Bizzo, DG RTD, European Commission
Francisco Castro Alves, DG AGRI, European Commission
RefreSCAR project Coordinator Órlaith Ní Choncubhair (Teagasc) introduced the Standing Committee on Agricultural Research (SCAR) and the goals of the RefreSCAR project.
The hackathon judging panel included:
– Mladen Radisic, University of Novi Sad and Foodscale Hub
– Laura Hundscheid, SCAR Protein Task Force, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management
– Pablo Gómez Grande, SCAR Protein Task Force, INIA-CSIC
Over two days, nine teams developed solutions addressing urgent challenges in European protein production, processing, and sustainability. Guided by expert feedback and a tightly structured programme (organised by Foodscale Hub), participants refined their proposals during breakout sessions and presented them in a final round of pitches before the Jury.
Hackathon Results
– 1st Place – Lucky Beans
– 2nd Place – ProTaste
– 3rd Place – Blended Finance Team
All nine teams brought forward thoughtful and creative ideas, reflecting the growing momentum behind Europe’s efforts to build a stronger, more sustainable protein sector. The RefreSCAR social media channels will highlight their pitches in the following days.
Leave a Reply