The Urban Forest Innovation Lab (UFIL) is launching the 6th edition of its entrepreneurship program in forest bioeconomy. This free program, funded by the Fundación Biodiversidad and supported by the City Council of Cuenca, offers a unique opportunity for innovators to develop sustainable business ideas in the forestry sector.

Who can apply?

UFIL is open to residents of the European Union with innovative ideas related to forest bioeconomy. No previous experience or specific background in the sector is required. Established companies who want to open a new line of business can also apply.

Program details

•Duration: March – July 2025

•Format: A combination of online training and mentoring, plus in-person workshops in Cuenca, Spain

•Total hours: 260 hours of training and mentoring

•Language: Spanish

•Certification: Participants will receive a certificate from the University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM)

Areas of innovation

Selected projects should focus on one of these key areas:

•Protective forest: Business models for ecosystem services such as sustainable tourism, water conservation, or biodiversity.

•Productive forest: Sustainable use of wood and non-wood forest products.

•Innovative forest: Technological solutions for sustainable forest management, including Industry 5.0, deep-tech, and mobile applications.

Resources and support

Participants will have access to a fully equipped innovation lab, designed to support the development and testing of new business solutions. Experts from the public and private sectors will provide mentorship throughout the program.

How to apply?

The application deadline is February 16, 2025. Apply now via https://ufilcuenca.es/