Objective of the project:
The goal of the BIG-ALGAE project is to increase the efficiency and sustainability of macroalgae cultivation technologies and practices in Europe, while also developing and scaling up biomass valorization processes and creating new value-added products that will enable the implementation of business models. The BIG-ALGAE project will deliver 4 cultivation solutions suitable for 5 native macroalgae species, including offshore cultivation, terrestrial recirculating aquaculture systems, integration with fish farming, and urban solutions for inland regions. The project will develop 8 new algae-based products using improved biorefinery processes for 5 sectors: food, feed, cosmetics, textiles, and materials, as well as advanced sensors for monitoring and digital tools to support decision-making and increase the efficiency and digitization of the macroalgae aquaculture sector. Led by industry and supported by leading institutes and universities from Europe and Asia, the BIG-ALGAE project brings together primary producers, technology developers, researchers, and end users of algae-based ingredients.
| Acronym | BIG-ALGAE |
| Project number and ID code | 101292802 — BIG-ALGAE — HORIZON-JU-CBE-2025 |
| Type of the project | HORIZON JU Innovation Actions |
| Coordinator | A4F ALGA FUEL SA (Portugal) |
| Number of partners | 20 |
| IMIC principal researcher | Cheel Horna Jose Carlos, Ph.D. |
| Project implementation period | 1. 5. 2026 – 30. 4. 2030 |
| Total funding for the project | 6 999 870 EUR |
| Funding for IMIC | 304 650 EUR |
| Provider | Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking |