At KiNNO, we understand that addressing climate challenges requires systemic solutions that reconcile our economies and human activities with planetary boundaries. Our recent projects reflect our commitment to developing sustainable solutions that empower communities and respond to pressing issues such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. These solutions must enhance resilience, foster cooperation among diverse stakeholders—including policymakers, businesses, and local communities—and support the transition towards a circular economy. By integrating science, technology, and governance, we aim to create effective circular business models that generate sustainable and inclusive growth.
1. COALition Hubs
Through the COALition project, we are actively promoting innovation excellence in coal-dependent regions. Our goal is to transform these areas into climate-neutral economies by establishing regional excellence hubs. These hubs serve as centers for sustainable growth, fostering resilience and innovation in communities that have historically relied on coal.
KiNNO’s role in the project includes
▪ Development of Strategy Planning Methodology
▪ Development of a Road Map for the Creation of Regional Innovation Ecosystems
▪ Create a database of stakeholders
▪ Governance Model report
▪ Ecosystem Building Workshops
▪ Development of Feasibility Plans for selected pilots.
2. Go Green
The Go Green initiative focuses on integrating digital technologies with sustainability goals in Western Macedonia. By promoting green digitization, we are paving the way for a more sustainable future. This project not only enhances local businesses but also contributes to broader environmental objectives.
KiNNO’s role in the project included
▪ Creating best practices for green digitization
▪ Creation of green digitization indicators and Green Digitization Certificate
▪ Creation of a Green Digitization Roadmap
3. Mediterranean Blue Acceleration Network (MedBAN)
In collaboration with MedBAN, we support the market uptake of various technologies designed to mitigate climate stress, particularly in port areas. Our initiatives include the establishment and maintenance of floating photovoltaic systems, smart EV chargers for port vehicles, and hydrogen refueling stations for ferries. These innovations are vital for reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices in maritime operations.
KiNNO’s role in the project included
▪ Market Analysis
▪ Competition Profiling and Adjacent Market Opportunities Discovery
▪ Open Innovation Plan
▪ Users & Customers Discovery
▪ Competition Profiling
▪ Market Opportunities Discovery
▪ Action Plan for Business Model Implementation
4. Zero Energy Cluster
The Zero Energy Cluster project is dedicated to designing, developing, and implementing business planning tools that leverage the wave of renovations for innovative Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and energy-saving technologies. Our aim is to reduce emissions significantly by creating infrastructures that consume almost zero energy.
KiNNO’s role in the project included
▪ Design, deployment, and implementation of operational planning tools that take advantage of the wave of renovations for all innovative RES-E technologies
▪ Diagnostic/Strategy Assessment Reports
▪ Market analysis and product/service identification
▪ Business Plans and Feasibility Studies
5. Emphasis Project
Through the Emphasis Project, we strengthen the development and integration of an Open Innovation (OI) system that supports SMEs, start-ups, and spin-offs. This initiative helps these entities exploit innovations that promote sustainability, turning them into viable business opportunities through transnational partnerships in the EUROMED region.
KiNNO’s role in the project included
▪ Project management and coordination.
▪ Support & Contribution to the adaptation and integration of methodologies, tools and services to support SMEs in Open Innovation and the development of transnational partnerships.
▪ Support in the development and publication of the project’s Open Call to identify Open Innovation opportunities from SMEs.
▪ Support and quality control of the call’s Open Innovation opportunities.
▪ Provision of Open Innovation services for Greek SMEs (Innovation Audit, Action Plan (Roadmap), SME Capacity Development Seminars, Support in finding and developing partnerships).
▪ Development of a Handbook for the Open Innovation Network.
A Systemic Approach to Climate Solutions 🔄
Addressing climate change is a complex challenge that requires collaboration across multiple sectors. Engaging policymakers, industry leaders, and local communities is essential to create a cohesive strategy that drives meaningful change. By fostering partnerships and encouraging dialogue among diverse stakeholders, we can develop comprehensive solutions that are both innovative and sustainable.