All planned SYNBEE activities were successfully implemented. The consortium conducted research, producing a SWOT analysis of synthetic biology in Europe, a best-practices matrix, and an entrepreneurial education roadmap. A central knowledge base was launched on the project website, offering key resources for students, researchers, and biohackers.
SYNBEE identified 50 students and researchers interested in entrepreneurship, enrolling them in two programs: one supporting start-up creation with mentoring and funding, and another providing general entrepreneurial training.
Workshops in spring 2024 connected the community with experts in SynBio markets, IP, branding, regulation, funding, and gender bias. Participants engaged with start-up founders, serial entrepreneurs, and tech transfer specialists. A self-employment session highlighted opportunities and challenges.
A database of 400+ non-dilutive funding sources was compiled and updated regularly. A training session introduced public funding opportunities, application processes, and proposal tips. Direct outreach encouraged participation, and an analysis examined public funding's impact on private investment.
Two pitch competitions were held: the SYNBEE Pitch Competition (June 2023–April 2024) trained 10 finalists and awarded baCta, Syngens, and BioHalo. Another took place at StartMeUp (Toulouse, Jan–Feb 2024), providing exposure to 250+ investors and industry leaders.
Two hackathons were organized: one (Riga Technical University, Sep 2023) focused on biotech solutions for SDGs, awarding "Refuel" and "Super Salli." The second (Read-Write-Grow, Nov 2024) featured expert lectures, networking, and pitching, with winners ZOMBIO, Endostix, and NitroDuck.
Over 20 mentors assisted 16 start-ups, offering case-by-case guidance across SYNBEE programs. A European synthetic biology stakeholder database was created, with synergy discussions leading to EUSynBioS joining SYNBEE as an associate partner. A stakeholder map was published online.
A list of 120+ investors was compiled for matchmaking with start-ups, occurring at events and on a rolling basis.
The flagship EIC x SYNBEE Day (April 2024, Brussels) gathered 70 attendees for panel discussions on start-up creation, regulation, and funding. The event, co-organized by Da Vinci Labs and EIC/EISMEA, provided networking opportunities, keynote talks, and hosted the SYNBEE Pitch Competition finals.
Post-event stakeholder interviews led to a White Paper on entrepreneurial education and policy recommendations. Efforts to sustain SYNBEE beyond EU funding explored monetization strategies for events, training, mentoring, and databases.
