Date : November 11 to 13, 2025
The NGS-4-Ecoprod project, in collaboration with the University of Sfax Technology Transfer Office (USTT) and within the framework of the ELIF program, organized a Bootcamp on Innovation and Sustainable Valorization at the Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS).
This three-day event brought together researchers and project idea holders interested in transforming scientific research into innovative and sustainable solutions. The bootcamp combined technical training with the development of entrepreneurial and soft skills essential for innovation.
The program included:

• Day 1: Design Thinking workshop and development of a Business Model Canvas to assess project viability.
• Day 2: Introduction to the key components of a business plan, including market analysis and financial strategy.
• Day 3: Project pitching session, where participants presented their ideas and received feedback from experts.

A key highlight of the event was the participation of the four task leaders of Work Package 1 (WP1) of the NGS-4-Ecoprod project, accompanied by their students, to advance the business development and pitching preparation of their innovation projects:

• Task 1.1 – Biopesticides: Dr. Raida Zribi Zghal and Ms. Ines Chouaibi
• Task 1.2 – Extremozymes: Dr. Nadia Zarai Jaouadi
• Task 1.3 – Bioplastics: Dr. Fatma Karray and Ms. Jihen El Ghazel
• Task 1.4 – WP1 Leader: Dr. Najla Kharrat and Ms. Cyrine Abid

The bootcamp also involved several CBS researchers and project leaders, including Dr. Basma Hadj Kacem, Dr. Mariem Ellouze, Prof. Sonia Khoufi, and Eng. Fathi Aloui, fostering collaboration and interdisciplinary exchange.
 
This initiative played an important role in strengthening the entrepreneurial dimension of research projects, helping participants refine their business models, value propositions, and communication strategies. It also contributed to bridging the gap between scientific research and market-oriented innovation, supporting the NGS-4-Ecoprod mission to promote eco-innovation and sustainable bio-based solutions.