3rd AquaLoops4Med Consortium Meeting in Potenza

Progress towards building an interregional innovation network for circular water management in the agrifood sector.

The 3^rd Consortium Meeting of the AquaLoops4Med project, hosted by the University of Basilicata (UNIBAS), took place in Potenza, Italy, from 2 to 3 October 2025. During the first day, partners reviewed the overall progress of the project, coordinated upcoming activities, and aligned priorities for the next implementation phase. Discussions focused on the implementation of pilot plants in the regions of Thessaly and Potenza, as well as on laboratory results supporting the design and development of the wastewater treatment systems.

AquaLoops4Med Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP)

Particular emphasis was placed on the AquaLoops4Med Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP) scheme, managed by the SEL–NTUA team, with a focus on the upcoming Open Call, which will be launched in the next period. The Open Call aims to support SMEs through interregional collaborative subprojects, targeting the demonstration, scale-up, and commercialisation of innovative solutions for sustainable and circular water management in the agrifood sector. Partners also discussed the finalisation of the Guide for Applicants and the planning of dissemination and communication activities, such as informative webinars, to facilitate SME participation and matchmaking. In addition, participatory activities organised by WE&B team supported the identification of connections between partners and stakeholders, contributing to network mapping and the assessment of policy needs and gaps related to sustainable water management in each participating region.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to explore the innovation ecosystem of Basilicata through contributions from regional organisations. Dr. Tiziana Perri (Fondazione Enrico Mattei) presented the AGRIVANDA project, focusing on regeneration and efficient resource use in a former industrial and abandoned area, while Dr. Francesco Cellini (ALSIA–Agrobios Metaponto) showcased innovation activities carried out by the centre. The meeting concluded with visits to the ARPAB facilities and the laboratories of UNIBAS, offering insight into research activities relevant to the project.