APROVALS (Accelerating PROteins innoVAtors beyond reguLatory Sandboxes) aims to foster the development and integration of emerging technologies in the field of cellular agriculture. Its main objective is to create a favorable innovation environment, supporting start-ups and SMEs in testing new solutions, while also helping policymakers update existing regulations in response to technological advancements.

The project is a European initiative coordinated by the French cluster Genopole, together with Distretto Campania Bioscience, EuropaBio (Belgium), Irish Bioeconomy Foundation (Ireland), Planet B.io (Netherlands), Smile Incubator (Sweden), Vitagora (France), and Teknologian Tutkimuskeskus VTT (Finland).

The open call targets start-ups and companies active in cellular agriculture (cell cultivation, precision or biomass fermentation) interested in marketing their products in the EU. The initiative offers technical and regulatory support to address European regulatory challenges, facilitating interactions with entities such as EFSA. Participants will also contribute to shaping policy recommendations to improve approval processes.

The call is open until June 9, 2025 - APPLY HERE. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible to apply for the APROVALS Open Call?

Companies developing cellular agriculture products, including those using cell culture, precision fermentation, or biomass fermentation, are eligible. Applicants must be on a regulatory pathway for market entry in the EU, have experience with EU regulatory frameworks, and operate within the EU or an associated country. They must also be willing to collaborate and share pre-competitive information in a trusted, cooperative environment.

2. What are the benefits of participating in the APROVALS Open Call?

Selected participants will gain access to 2–3 workshops and interviews with experts, regulators, and policymakers. They will have the opportunity to share testing outcomes to support regulatory discussions, provide input on policy recommendations, and help shape communication strategies for the cellular agriculture sector throughout the project’s duration.

3. Why should companies consider applying?

By joining the APROVALS initiative, companies will contribute to a stronger, collective voice for cellular agriculture in Europe. They will collaborate with other innovators to streamline EU regulatory pathways, engage with professionals in the field, and shape a unified message that supports innovation and policy development.

4. What kind of commitment is expected from participating companies?

Participants are expected to commit time to engage in workshops, interviews, and collaborative discussions. They should be ready to share relevant, non-confidential information that can help advance the understanding and development of appropriate regulatory frameworks in the EU.

5. How and when can companies apply?

The Open Call opens on April 14, 2025, and closes on June 9, 2025. Companies can find more information and submit their applications via the official APROVALS website: www.aprovals.eu. Questions may be directed to info [at] aprovals.eu (info[at]aprovals[dot]eu).