On October 3, 2023, the Provincial Executive made an exciting announcement: four projects in Zeeland received a significant financial boost through the 'Zeeland in Acceleration' program. Together, they share a staggering amount of €470,465. And there's more good news: in the spring of 2024, a new (and tentatively the final) round will be launched, offering even more funding for fresh ideas.
One standout recipient is the 'Brut de Mer, wine from Zeeland's seafloor' project. With a grant of €50,000, De Toffe Peer, in collaboration with its partners, aims to determine if Zeeland can produce a new culinary delight: a wine matured at the bottom of the Oosterschelde. The goal? To establish Zeeland as a culinary hotspot and bolster the local fish and seafood industry.
Additionally, there's 'Naturally! The Sea - Zeeland's Sea-based Protein Revolution'. With a grant of €180,359, Superfood Zeeland B.V., in partnership with various collaborators, seeks to develop meat substitutes derived from Zeeland's shellfish and saline vegetables. Their intention is not merely to create tasty products but also to heighten youth awareness regarding sustainable food choices.
The third awardee, 'Giant Grass on Saline Cultivation', receives €111,088 to showcase the potential of Giant Grass, which can grow up to 6 meters tall. This grass isn't just a sight to behold; it also holds promise for green construction and biomass production.
Lastly, there's the 'Innovative Zeeland Rudder System for 360° Maneuverability' project. Awarded €129,018, this initiative seeks to demonstrate a groundbreaking rudder system that can enhance the efficiency and sustainability of inland shipping.
These are just four of the numerous innovative concepts thriving in Zeeland. With the forthcoming 2024 round on the horizon, Zeeland can anticipate even more brilliant innovations in the near future.
Source: Provincie Zeeland