Enviro News Asia, Medellín — The Government of Antioquia, in partnership with Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and Comfama, has launched the “Antioquia Biocompetitiva” initiative to strengthen the region’s bioeconomy ecosystem, backed by COP 1.81 billion in funding and support from the UK PACT programme.
The project aims to connect bio-based products with national and international markets while promoting social inclusion by engaging rural communities, producer associations, and vulnerable populations.
The launch event in Medellín brought together stakeholders from the public and private sectors, including entrepreneurs, business leaders, and representatives of the regional innovation ecosystem. The initiative also introduced two open calls for proposals designed to advance applied scientific knowledge, strengthen institutional capacity, and stimulate business development.
Manuel Naranjo, Secretary of Economic Development of Antioquia, highlighted the importance of the bioeconomy as a driver of sustainable development, job creation, and economic growth based on natural resources.
The programme will run from 2026 to 2027 and is expected to support 39 business initiatives, including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), through three main components: an innovation seed programme for microenterprises, a scaling and investment track for SMEs, and an acceleration programme under the MAPBIO+ Antioquia Edition.
In addition, 20 companies will receive training in internationalization processes with support from ProColombia, enabling them to expand into global markets.
Alejandra Ruiz, Sustainable Landscapes Officer at GGGI Colombia, described the initiative as a milestone, marking the first instance of subnational resource mobilization by GGGI in the country and reinforcing long-standing collaboration with regional partners.
The project also reflects a broader effort to promote green growth models that enhance competitiveness, innovation, and community well-being, positioning Antioquia as a leading bioeconomy hub at both national and regional levels. (*)
