MEDBBHub

Connecting Innovation: the Mediterranean network of Blue Biotechnology Hubs

INRETE SRL

Name:
INRETE SRL

Address:
Corso Armando Diaz 34 Mazzara del Vallo ITALY

Phone number:
+393317375026

e-Mail address:
orazio.albano@gmail.com

Website:
https://www.bluelifehub.com/

Brief description of the organization’s activities:
INRETE S.R.L.is a business set up in July 2017 in Mazara del Vallo, in Sicily Island. The company gathers professionals from different fields such as journalism and online magazine mangement, international cooperation, fishing, aquaculture, circular economy and environmental services. Its main focus is development of businesses in the framework of the Blue Economy, online information, the digital transition of small businesses and sustainable practices for eco-compatible development of territories.

Inrete has been established to combine the experience in business development, digital communication, project management, supply chain development and technical support (mainly in the field of fishing and aquaculture) and training gained by the founding members.
Those experiences have been gained during the activities/projects carried out as freelancers working in the field of training/education of youth and adults, European project management (front-desk, fundraising, project communication, output delivery, etc.), as well as implementation of projects in the field of supply chain development (mostly in the field of fish value chain).

The main sector of intervention is related on the online information through the magazine https://www.bluelifehub.com/ for the blue economy in Mediterranean Area and Africa, and https://www.pesceinrete.com/ for fisheries in Italy.

Inrete works as a local vector for innovation proposals bearing in mind the needs of small farmers and fish farmers. In this sense, it has brought to financing different projects for them in terms of business establishment and development, technological innovation, marketing strategies, training, website development and support to the digital transition, B2B networking events (application and brand handling in fairs).

VET training:
Inrete is focused on the training of students from VET schools as well as adults from circular economy, innovation in blue economy, aquaculture and fishery sector. What is more, some of the members of the team are experienced in delivering training applying blended learning methodologies, including pairing offline to online training tailoring the training path according to the target need, capacity building of Competent Authority (for Albania, Greece, Tunisia, Libya, Morocco, Kenya, Somalia, Lebanon). For instance, the development of e-learning platforms providing learners different types of learning material (e.g. written text, videos, animated material, podcast etc).

Project management:
Inrete has a comprehensive working capacity regarding European project management. The companys staff has individual long tracks of record in terms of European projects, plus Inrete is actively supporting rural businesses in applying and managing European funds – so far, consulting for funding has led to the grants funding:
– Technological improvements in marketing , e-commerce and logistics;
– Technological prototyping;
– Business development and start-upping (in the field of agriculture and aquaculture).

Fundraising activity:
Inrete has brought to financing different primary sector-based businesses thanks to EU funds exploitation. This activity has led to visible results in different enterprises, especially during the Covid-19 emergency, by supporting the digital shift of retailing models and the related digital positioning and online information.

Business model:
Inrete is a private company based on the work of the partners and consultants.
INRETE S.R.L. generates its income through a diversified business model. The primary revenue streams come from consultancy services, where they charge fees for business development, technological innovation, marketing strategies, and digital transition support. They also assist businesses in applying for and managing European funds, for which they receive payment.

Another significant source of income is project management. INRETE is paid for managing European and local projects, including tasks like fundraising, project communication, and implementation. Their expertise in navigating EU funding processes is a valuable service for their clients.

Additionally, INRETE operates digital media platforms such as BlueLifeHub and PesceInRete, which bring in revenue through advertising, sponsored content, and partnerships with businesses and organizations relevant to the Blue Economy and fisheries sectors.

Training and education services also contribute to their income. INRETE offers vocational education and training programs, charging fees for these services. They use blended learning methodologies and e-learning platforms, providing various educational materials tailored to the needs of their target audience.

Lastly, INRETE earns from its fundraising and innovation support activities. They receive commissions or fees for successfully securing EU funds and grants for businesses, particularly for technological and business development projects. This comprehensive approach ensures multiple income sources, supporting sustainable development and innovation in their focus areas.

Sector(s) of involvement:
Aquaculture and fisheries technologies; Bio-inspired materials; Circular economy; Other

Sectors of involvement:
Project design in blue economy fields, online magazineYes

Role of the organization in the development and/or application of Blue Biotechnologies:
application of innovative biotechnology for aquaculture and fishing in orther to improve economic production performance, reduce the environmental impact, reduce the fish waste

Skills and services provided:
dissemniation of results, training activity, networking around Mediterranean area and Africa, project design and management

Needs in terms of research, innovation, development, and/or application of blue biotechnologies:

INRETE S.R.L. needs to engage in ongoing research to identify emerging trends and technologies in blue biotechnologies, including studying marine resources and sustainable practices in aquaculture and fisheries, with a particular focus on the Mediterranean Area and Africa. They require innovation to develop new products, services, and processes, such as advanced fishing techniques and eco-friendly aquaculture systems. The practical development of biotechnological tools and processes is crucial, translating research into viable commercial applications to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Effective application of these technologies in real-world scenarios, particularly for small farmers and fish farmers, is essential. INRETE also needs collaboration with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry partners to access cutting-edge research and technological expertise. Securing funding and investment through European grants, private investment, and public-private partnerships is vital to support long-term projects and commercialize innovations in blue biotechnologies.

INRETE brings a strong network in the Mediterranean Area and Africa, which is a significant value addition to any project. This network facilitates knowledge dissemination, best practice sharing, and collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring the successful implementation and scaling of biotechnological innovations to meet local needs and contribute to sustainable development.

24 October 2024

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