ShapingBio conducted a stakeholder needs assessment to gain in-depth insights into perspectives, needs, and concerns regarding the bioeconomy, from more than 180 key stakeholders from various sectors, such as industry, academia, policy-makers, and civil society.

To gather the needed information, interviews and a survey took place.

The semi-structured interviews allowed us to explore diverse viewpoints, facilitate a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics and collect ideas for a further detailed assessment of the bioeconomy when looking into secondary data and analyzing information such as policy documents.

The online survey was distributed to a wider audience to gather quantitative data on stakeholders’ information needs, perceptions, and expectations of and for the bioeconomy. This methodological approach enables ShapingBio to identify key areas of imbalance and opportunity and eventually guiding the development of effective strategies and tools to support the successful transition to a sustainable, circular bioeconomy.

Below the main outcomes from the stakeholders’ perspective are presented:

• Public engagement and awareness emerged as a crucial aspect of implementing bioeconomy strategies, so groups outside the bioeconomy community have to be addressed.
• A strong foundation for a sustainable bioeconomy should be built.
• Education and training in equipping stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and skills are needed.
• Effective governance and policy frameworks were identified as essential components in guiding the transition towards a sustainable bioeconomy.
• Collaboration, in terms of applied Research and Development (R&D), technology transfer, and access to shared pilot facilities should be improved.
• Cross-sectoral collaboration among stakeholders is recognized as a key factor in overcoming challenges, sharing knowledge and resources, and driving the development of a sustainable, resource-efficient, and climate-neutral bioeconomy.
• Financing emerged as a critical element in propelling innovation and growth in the bioeconomy sector.
• Accelerating the innovation process and supporting the establishment of strong business models, lowering regulatory and administrative hindrances, and exploring innovative financing models to overcome challenges in this area were highlighted.
• Effective communication channels and formats were identified as vital tools for raising awareness, sharing information, and fostering dialogue among stakeholders.
• To address the different stakeholders groups, a portfolio of different channels and formats reaching from physical meetings to webinars is demanded.

ShapingBio has received various suggestions and insights for further investigations in the next stages of its assessment. By considering these insights, ShapingBio can better address stakeholder needs, design initiatives that resonate with different stakeholder groups, facilitate informed decision-making, and contribute to the long-term deployment of the bioeconomy.

The whole report is available for you to read. Please note that the report awaits Commission approval.