6.1 The results, benefits and added value from the Nordic-Baltic – collaboration to support digital advancements in the bioeconomy sectors
Addressing climate and biodiversity challenges in the Nordic-Baltic region requires transforming food and energy production systems. Realising this transformation depends not only on environmental ambition but also on the availability of robust digital infrastructure and the competencies needed to use it effectively.
Testbeds are environments – physical or virtual – developed to enable the testing of new products and solutions by enterprises, researchers and organizations. The Nordic Testbed Network was established to connect actors and facilities within the region who contribute to the digital and innovative transformation of the bioeconomy. By connecting the various facilities that exist across the region, the Nordic Testbed Network ensures that knowledge and practical solutions can circulate more widely.
The report highlights key benefits and results valued by networks members. Meeting experts and other members provided insights into the latest developments, and the network served as a platform where members could share their own results and learn across different sectors. While developments have had different levels of progress, the sectors within the bioeconomy use the same technologies and digital tools. By enabling connections with like-minded people who share challenges and ambitions, the network worked as a platform from which concrete collaboration could develop.
The report identifies several lessons learned. Testbeds rely on knowledge sharing among individuals, but limited resources and time constraints for travel are perceived as significant challenges. Securing long-term funding is described as an ongoing difficulty. Active coordination of the network is seen as essential for it to remain relevant.
Future plans and priorities focus on activities based on member needs, combining updates, funding information, and knowledge exchange. The network aims to balance different types of activities and provide both larger events and shorter updates connected to societal and political changes. The report also highlights support to projects in their initial stage as a key priority. Increased knowledge sharing on funding opportunities, insight into members’ ongoing and planned projects, and strengthened matchmaking are seen as mechanisms for accelerating collaboration and transforming early ideas into concrete projects.
6.2 Members of the Nordic Testbed Network