The Social Bugs project focuses on creating an innovative ecosystem that connects the edible insect farming industry with the social and solidarity economy (SSE). It aims to address environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic growth by providing vulnerable citizens and social entrepreneurs with training and tools to establish and operate insect farming businesses. The project promotes decentralized, sustainable food production and strengthens local social value chains.
Main Objectives:
- Develop an ecosystem linking the insect farming industry and SSE.
- Equip vulnerable groups with insect farming skills to enhance employment opportunities.
- Upskill social entrepreneurs to establish sustainable businesses in the insect market.
- Promote cross-sector collaboration to boost innovation and sustainable practices.
Key Activities:
- Mapping existing collaborations between the insect industry and SSE.
- Establishing three small-scale insect farms as proofs of concept.
- Developing VET (Vocational Education and Training) programs for insect farming and social entrepreneurship.
- Conducting 4 study visits, 2 training-of-trainers sessions, and a final conference.
Expected Results:
- 3 operational insect farms.
- Training programs benefiting 120 vulnerable citizens and 36 social entrepreneurs.
- A guide on starting social businesses in the insect industry.
- Increased awareness of edible insects as a sustainable food source.
Funding: €400,000 under the Erasmus+ KA220-VET program.
Partners:
Bugging Denmark (BD) / Denmark
APROXIMAR – Cooperativa de Solidariedade Social (APX) / Portugal
European Strategies Consulting (ESC) / Romania
INAGRO (INA) / Belgium
University of Copenhagen (UCPH) / Denmark