At Synergy Days 2025 in Rotterdam, BIOFIN-EU actively showcased how finance can turn ecological ambitions into investable solutions. The project engaged the audience through a booth, a project pitch, and a joint workshop with VALERECO, highlighting innovation and collaboration in sustainable agriculture.
Booth and Project Pitch
Throughout the event, attendees visited BIOFIN-EU’s booth to explore the project’s objectives and tools for biodiversity-positive finance. On Day 2 (22 October), Prof. John Garvey delivered a 3-minute pitch, presenting the project’s approach and impact to a diverse audience. The concise presentation attracted attention and sparked valuable discussions, reinforcing the growing importance of nature-positive finance in the EU innovation landscape.
Workshop: Enhancing Biodiversity through Agroecology
Also on Day 2, BIOFIN-EU and VALERECO co-hosted the interactive workshop “Enhance Biodiversity through Financing Agroecological Innovation”. The session aimed to co-create a roadmap to scale legume systems, turning ecological potential into economic opportunity. Pre-event survey results guided an open, dynamic discussion that encouraged strong audience engagement.
Presenters Prof. John Garvey, Ciarán Corrigan (University of Limerick), and Metaxia Kokkini (AUTH) emphasised the design of financial and market systems that make agroecological practices investable for farmers.
Discussions explored the role of legumes in sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and soil health, and addressed barriers faced by farmers and consumers, from low profit margins and yield instability to limited awareness and market access.
Participants proposed actionable solutions across finance, policy, advisory services, value chains, and consumer engagement, agreeing that scaling legumes requires a systems approach to build a resilient, climate-smart food system.
Looking Ahead
BIOFIN-EU’s participation at Synergy Days, led by Rainno, demonstrated the value of connecting projects, experts, and stakeholders. Through the booth, pitch, and workshop, the project showcased how finance can drive ecological innovation, foster collaboration, and support a nature-positive transition in European agriculture.
