Activities & Outcomes

SECURECHAIN promotes sustainable bioenergy solutions by offering a comprehensive Innovation Mentoring Package to small and medium enterprises (SME). The companies receive receive specific technical-logistical knowhow and training to support the implementation of the Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM). The package comprise the following five components.

1.  Innovation Vouchers

An open Innovation Voucher Competition is launched in the six European model regions, to identify trendsetting local bioenergy projects. SME that win this competition will be selected and be promoted as a demonstration example for sustainable bioenergy solutions. The innovation voucher entitles a SME to dedicated, hands-on support of a local external expert advisor.

2.  Technical support

SME obtain a technical appraisal of products and processes, tailored trainings and coaching support from experienced bioenergy specialists during the implementation. Three workshops for the awarded SMEs will address the specific needs of each SME project in respect to organisational setup, technical and logistical solutions, proper supply chain planning and sustainability management.

3.  Life Cycle Assessments (LCA)

Each SME project shall undergo a Life Cycle Assessment to allow understanding the environmental benefits and to countercheck the sustainability of the optimised supply chains. The modelling follows the consequential approach to assess scenarios of indirect impacts (e.g. effects on other bio-based industries, land use change, local value added and employment). As key indicator the carbon mitigation potential of a supply chain to is evaluated.

4.  Financial mentoring

Financial advisors will support SME managers to optimise the project viability and attract potential investors. They shall ensure that business plans and investment proposals are best tailored to the audience and convince financiers that SME projects deploy feasible business opportunities with solid planning and manageable risks. Proposals consider private capital markets, public-private partnerships, public calls and capital funds at regional, national and European level. Roadshows are enticing presentations of companies and their SSCM projects to spark investor interest.

5.  Sustainability certification

Suitable criteria and indicators (C&I) to assess the sustainability of SME projects are developed in line with international accredited certification systems and eligible standards. The LCA will help to narrow down the list of most relevant C&I. To achieve full readiness for certification, selected SME projects receive professional guidance and independent pre-audits in accordance with the requirements of the certification schemes.