The second edition of the H2020 BRIDGEBS-funded High-Tech Meeting for the Black Sea (THS4BS) will take place on 16 October 2024 in Sofia. The Fund of Funds is an institutional partner of this important research-based forum focusing on digitisation in the water sector and Industry 4.0.

The event will once again bring together innovators in the blue economy from the Black Sea region and beyond to foster dialogue between industry experts, academia, research organisations, investors, policy makers and civil society.

Building on the first results of BRIDGE-BS, as well as input from local and regional stakeholders, the event will showcase business ideas supported by the Black Sea Accelerator, with discussions on the topics of renewable marine energy, sustainable aquaculture, blue biotechnology, green and digital ports, yachting, circular economy, environmental monitoring and maritime security.

Interactive sessions are also planned in the programme to facilitate contacts with partners and investors and to give the opportunity to present business ideas and projects.

In order to maximise synergies with other related projects in the Black Sea, the second edition of HTS4BS on 16 October is organised in sequence with the Horizon Europe Sustainable Blue Forum - a regional workshop for the Black Sea Economic Partnership (SBEP), which will take place on 17 October at the same venue - the day after the Black Sea High Level Meeting.

In addition to being an institutional partner of the Forum, the Fund of Funds will also support the organisation of the exhibition part where partners from the region can exchange knowledge and opportunities for joint activities. The event will take place at the International Business School, Sofia.

Registrations for THS4BS are now open. Request your participation via the form HERE.

Applications for the BLACK SEA ACCELERATOR - BSE programme, jointly promoted and managed by the BRIDGE-BS and DOORS projects, are also being accepted until 20 July. The Accelerator is a comprehensive initiative designed to foster the development of innovative blue economy projects aimed at sustainable growth in the Black Sea region. BSA offers a range of targeted activities including training sessions, workshops and expert discussions, all aimed at supporting innovators in the blue economy. Selected participants receive free help to expand their business ideas and access valuable funding and investment opportunities. Interested companies and teams can apply via the website here: https://bridgeblacksea.org/index.php/black-sea-accelerator/