Synergy Days is designed to celebrate and showcase European research projects that are transforming the European agri-food sector. Who are they, and how are they using digital technology to innovate the sector? We spoke to TITAN to learn more about the project, its goals and journey.

 

 

What inspired the creation of your project? 

The project has been defined in response to a call for proposals of the Horizon Europe Programme of the European Commission. TITAN was created to leverage transparency and digital innovations in the food sector to pursue a paradigm shift: transforming the food system into a demand-driven economy that provides consumers with healthy and sustainable food. To achieve this goal, TITAN is working towards the provision of a broad platform for the development of different innovative pilots, the analysis of the current policy to set up a set of recommendations, the setting up an inventory to identify current digital innovations and future challenges. Key for the success of TITAN project is the involvement of primary and secondary stakeholders that – around the same table – can provide their say on how food system should be transformed.

Can you share some of the key milestones or successes your project has achieved to date?

Two years into the project, TITAN has already achieved several significant milestones. First, the 15 pre-identified pilots have begun their activities, initiating the testing phases of the solutions to be developed. This has led to the involvement of external stakeholders who have provided samples and other valuable contributions for project activities.

In addition to the initial 15 pilots, 8 more were identified through an Open Call, which saw participation from over 70 organizations. These 8 pilots enhance TITAN’s unique innovation ecosystem in the European landscape, with multiple startups and SMEs supported in deploying enabling technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and Rapid-Detection methods.

Through dedicated stakeholder interaction activities, various supply chains have been reconstructed to understand the gaps, challenges, and opportunities arising from the implementation of innovative technologies. This effort also aims to explore how these technologies can improve interactions among different stakeholders. TITAN is also building a network of experts from businesses, universities, civil society, and public authorities to strengthen the project's position within the European dimension. This collaborative effort will be essential in the future to address the challenges faced by the entire food system.

What innovative technologies or methods are you most excited about within your project? 

TITAN has the opportunity to showcase multiple innovative technological pilots based on various technologies. In addition to the initial 15 pilots, 8 more were identified through an Open Call with a budget of €1.25 million, which attracted participation from over 70 organizations across Europe in a competitive process. These pilots aim to enhance traceability across different supply chains to ensure product authenticity for consumers' benefit. They also explore the use of artificial intelligence in areas such as detecting undeclared allergens and utilizing a chatbot to influence sustainable food choices, precision agriculture through satellite systems, and much more.

What advice would you give to other innovators looking to make an impact in the agricultural / food sector through digital technologies? 

Today, collaboration is increasingly essential for driving innovation in the complex agri-food system. For innovation to become a reality, it must have the support of various allies, including other key players in the food supply chain. First and foremost, it is crucial that this innovation addresses a genuine need within society, aligning with what is deemed important by the community. This community comprises both businesses, ensuring the innovation is a market breakthrough, and end-users, ensuring it meets an existing need highlighted by studies and research.

Equally important is ensuring that the innovation complies with the regulatory framework, guaranteeing its suitability within the current system of rules. Additionally, innovation is increasingly linked to sustainability. Analyzing the project's entire life cycle, its sustainability, and any potential negative impacts is essential to ensure that the benefits of implementation outweigh any possible harm. This holistic approach is fundamental to ensuring that the innovation not only succeeds in the market but also contributes positively to society and the environment.

What is the added value of Synergy Days for your project? 

Synergy Days is a remarkable opportunity for the TITAN project to engage with other digital innovators enhancing the transparency of the food system. The interactions and exchange with other food system actors such as among policy- makers, farmers, civil society and more are one of the biggest added value of this event. Additionally, this event is an opportunity to showcase the results achieved so far.

Want to meet them and learn more about the project? Join TITAN at Synergy Days 2024! More details and how to register.