The I3-4-SEAWEED Training Programme has officially started following the successful launch of the project’s support programme for selected Third Parties.
During the kick-off event, 26 Third Parties supported through the Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP) scheme were welcomed into the programme. Participants presented 25 innovative project pitches, highlighting seaweed-based solutions aimed at accelerating market uptake and strengthening emerging value chains within Europe’s blue bioeconomy.
The supported projects cover a wide range of application areas, including:
- Food & Nutrition
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Environmental Solutions
- Textiles & Natural Dyes
- Digital Twinning
These initiatives showcase the growing innovation potential of seaweed across multiple industries, with strong synergies already emerging between projects and partners.
First Training Session: Marketing and Brand Fundamentals
The first training session took place on 4 March 2026 and focused on Marketing and Brand Development.
The session began with a presentation by Martins from Submariner Network, introducing the fundamentals of branding. The presentation explored what a brand is, how people perceive information, and which tools and strategies can help innovators effectively communicate their solutions and position their products on the market.
A short showcase of seaweed-related advertisements demonstrated how storytelling and branding can influence public perception and consumer engagement.
This was followed by a practical showcase by Daniel from GreenCoLab, presenting real-world examples of communication and branding approaches used in the algae sector.
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A discussion and a hands-on task.
Collaborative Learning Environment
The I3-4-SEAWEED training programme is designed as a collaborative learning environment bringing together innovators, mentors, and project partners. The training activities are exclusively available to the selected programme participants.
Each session invites external mentors to contribute expertise and provide practical insights for bringing innovative solutions closer to the market. The programme also promotes collaboration with related initiatives, including AlgaeProBANOS, strengthening connections across the European algae innovation ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
The next training session will take place on 25 March 2026, focusing on “Building a Sustainable Company.”
At the end of the programme, participants will have the opportunity to present their progress and results during a dedicated event where they will deliver their project pitches. This final pitching event will highlight the innovative solutions developed throughout the programme and support their further visibility and market uptake.
Through these activities, the programme supports innovators in transforming promising seaweed-based ideas into market-ready products and sustainable businesses, contributing to the growth of Europe’s blue bioeconomy.
