How to use the advanced technologies of digital transformation to make agri-food systems in Central America and the Caribbean more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable is the challenge and the triggering question of the second BELLA II Ideathon, which will be held between February 29 and March 11, bringing together dozens of experts from universities, research centers, international organizations, collaborative ventures and government agencies related to issues of agriculture and food security, innovation and technology.
Called "Innovation of agrifood systems in Central America and the Caribbean", the Ideathon will focus on proposals for the use of water (European Green Pact) and on reducing the gender gap and the digital divide. The format will be virtual, with synchronous and asynchronous sessions, training and mentoring sessions, and spaces for the construction of the final ideas, as well as opening and closing activities.
As a result, three strategic concept notes are expected to be selected by a panel of experts from among all those submitted by the participating groups. In addition, based on the Ideathon, progress will be made in the development of an indicative digital agenda (roadmap), sensitive to the priorities of the region.
"Food risks in Central America and the Caribbean are correlated with climate change, so it is essential to think about technological and innovative options applicable to the region, allowingcommunities to respond to the challenges by having devices, sensors and timely information for decision-making," explains Luis Eliécer Cadenas, Executive Director of RedCLARA,.
"Food risks in Central America and the Caribbean are correlated with climate
The Ideathon is organized by RedCLARA and the European Union in the framework of the BELLA II project, with the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), LACNET and the European Space Agency (ESA).
How to participate?
Participation in the Ideathon is by invitation, which will be sent to the institutions and organizations defined by the Organizing Committee in order to identify the participants who will registering on their behalf. Interested parties may also pre-register in order to be reviewed. Once the registrations are closed, the committee will confirm the registrations and organize the groups to be registered on the Ideathon platform.
Pre-registration will take place from November 30, 2023 to February 10, 2024. The organizing committee will be giving response and acceptance to these registrations. To access the pre-registration link, please visit https://eventos.redclara.net/event/1147/
Winning groups will receive prizes including the opportunity to present their proposal at regional events, as well as mentoring and training to further develop their concept note. For more information, visit https://www.bella-programme.eu/index.php/en/user-events/bella-ideathon-innovation-of-agrifood-systems-in-central-america
