CLIENT STORY

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER PLAN FOR FOOD INNOVATION NETWORK

 

Development of an integrated technology transfer strategy for the consolidation of the Iberian agri-food ecosystem

 

 

 

WellAdvisedCo developed a comprehensive Knowledge Transfer Plan for the Net4Food network – Research and Innovation Network for the Food Sector, a European project under the Interreg VI-A Spain-Portugal Cooperation Program (POCTEP) 2021-2027. The work aimed to create a strategic operational instrument for maximising scientific and technological impact, establishing effective transfer mechanisms for the agri-food business landscape of the Galicia-Northern Portugal Euroregion.

 

The Challenge

The Galicia-Northern Portugal Euroregion faces fragmentation in the food innovation ecosystem, characterised by limited articulation between research centres and sector companies. Despite the existence of advanced scientific competencies and a dynamic business landscape, a significant gap persisted in the effective transfer of knowledge and technologies. The challenge centred on creating a systematic strategy that would allow transforming R&D results into viable commercial solutions, promoting competitiveness and sustainability of the regional agri-food sector.

 

The Strategic Solution

The Net4Food network, integrating IPB, CLUSAGA, the University of Vigo, MORE CoLAB, and AquaValor, has consolidated infrastructures and 10 validated practices with high transfer potential, creating unique conditions to systematise innovation processes in the sector. The project aims to establish the foundations of the future Iberian Food Laboratory, with the intention of consolidating the Northern Portugal-Galicia Euroregion as an international reference in the food sector.

WellAdvisedCo structured the Net4Food Transfer Plan around four operational components that systematise knowledge transfer through a specific methodological approach:

Strategic Mapping and Opportunity Analysis:

  • Systematic classification through multidimensional methodology (D.T.A.) of transferable practices available in the Good Practices Database
  • Rigorous transferability assessment and identification of 888+ recipients segmented by absorption capacity
  • Systematisation proposal that maximises transfer potential by technological area

Specialised Transfer Processes:

  • Hybrid network model with three differentiated protocols (Fast-Track, Standard, Advanced) adapted to practice complexity
  • Integrated facilitating instruments (vouchers €2k-60k, digital platform, specialised mentoring)
  • Phased operationalisation over 24 months through 10 priority actions organised by increasing complexity

Standardised Base Agreements:

  • Three specialised contractual typologies (methodological dissemination, technological transfer, collaborative development)
  • Common criteria for all Net4Food transmitting entities, streamlining processes and reducing transaction costs
  • Financial sustainability framework for post-funding operational autonomy

Structured Implementation:

  • Continuous monitoring system and mechanisms for systematic incorporation of new practices
  • Methodologies from rapid implementation to advanced collaborative technologies
  • Financial sustainability frameworks for post-funding operational autonomy

 

WellAdvisedCo’s Contribution

Methodology and Analytical Framework:

  • Development of a transferability assessment model based on quantitative criteria
  • Detailed analysis of 474 available practices and their commercial potential
  • Strategic synthesis of global transfer potential by technological area

Implementation Strategy:

  • Definition of operational roadmap with institutional priorities
  • Structuring of certification and monitoring processes
  • Development of a continuous scanning system for new opportunities

Operationalisation Instruments:

  • Creation of digital platforms for transfer management
  • Development of standardised base agreements
  • Framework for economic and technological impact assessment

 

Results and Expected Impact

The Plan establishes an operational network that connects potential recipient companies with specialised R&D centres, creating a structured technology transfer ecosystem.

Quantifiable Impacts:

  • Democratisation of access to innovation: Involvement of 284 organisations through professionalised transfer processes
  • Network density above 60%: Adoption rate above 40% of transferred practices
  • Operational sustainability: Financial autonomy in 24 months based on transfer fees
  • European reference hub: Consolidation of the Euroregion as a centre of excellence in agri-food knowledge transfer

Strategic Benefits:

  • Agri-food companies: Systematised access to advanced technologies and innovative practices
  • R&D centres: Commercial valorisation of research results
  • Territory: Consolidation as a European reference hub in food innovation

 

The implementation of this Transfer Plan can transform the Net4Food network into a permanent knowledge transfer platform, creating sustained value for the Iberian agri-food ecosystem through systematic democratisation of access to innovation.

Client: PortugalFoods, is a private non-profit association; The Portuguese Government recognizes Portugalfoods as the leader of the Portuguese Agrofood Cluster.

Contracted WellAdvisedCo on behalf of Net4Food consortium.

Net4Food – Research and Innovation Network for the Food Sector in the Transborder Region.

Partners:

  • PortugalFoods (Portugal)

  • Cluster Alimentario de Galicia (Clusaga) (Spain)

  • Universidade de Vigo (UVigo) (Spain)

  • International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory

  • MORE CoLAB (Laboratório Colaborativo “Montanhas de Investigação”) (Portugal)

  • IPB – Instituto Politécnico de Bragança (Portugal)

  • AquaValor CoLAB (Portugal)

 

 

Industry: Iberian AgriFood Ecosystem

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