Bio-District App: Cultivating Territorial Values with a Bio-District Approach

Bari, 24–25 September 2025: The kick-off meeting of the Bio-District App, Cultivating Territorial Values with a Bio-District Approach project, co-financed by the Interreg VI-A Greece–Italy 2021–2027 Programme, took place at the headquarters of CIHEAM Bari.

The project aims to strengthen sustainable organic farming practices in Greece and Italy through the innovative bio-district model, supported by advanced digital tools. Its core objective is to enhance cooperation between local communities, farmers, and institutions, fostering resilient rural economies deeply connected to territorial values.

Partners participating in the initiative include CIHEAM Bari (Lead Partner), the Lame Biodistrict Association, and the Regional Agency for Irrigation and Forestry Activities from Italy, alongside the AgriFood Partnership of the Region of Western Greece, InnoPolis – Centre for Innovation and Culture, and the Municipality of Ancient Olympia from Greece. The project runs from June 2025 to June 2027.

During the two-day event, the consortium analyzed the project’s objectives, deliverables, and methodologies, with a particular focus on developing a cross-border digital platform offering innovative services to support organic farmers. A field visit to the Lame Biodistrict allowed participants to experience first-hand the operational approaches and values underpinning the biodistrict model.

The meeting also benefited from the valuable participation of three members of the Joint Secretariat of the Programme: Mr. Gianfranco Gadaletta (Coordinator), Mrs. Maristella Mantuano (Communication Officer), and Mrs. Anca Daniela Simion (Project Officer), who provided guidance on implementation procedures and clarified key points for the partners.

By applying the Living Labs methodology, the Bio-District App will design and deliver digital services that are accessible to all stakeholders, while simultaneously empowering producers, citizens, and communities. The initiative directly contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting environmentally friendly, inclusive, and future-oriented agricultural models.