In the rapidly evolving landscape of the food and beverage (F&B) industry, embracing digital innovation is key to achieving sustainability and growth. At the forefront of this transformation is the BIA Innovator Campus, a state-of-the-art hub dedicated to fostering innovation and supporting food businesses in the West of Ireland. Through its involvement in the DigiFABS project, BIA Innovator Campus is playing a crucial role in shaping the next generation of digital pioneers in the F&B sector.
The Role of BIA Innovator Campus in DigiFABS
The DigiFABS project is a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing digital, resilience, and innovation skills in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the F&B sector. BIA Innovator Campus, as part of a consortium of 14 partners from higher education institutions, vocational education and training (VET) organisations, businesses, and network organisations, contributes significantly to the project’s mission of creating Responsible Dynamic Digital Change Agents (RDDCAs).
Empowering Digital Change Agents
BIA Innovator Campus is dedicated to empowering digital change agents through multidisciplinary learning, practical training, and collaborative innovation. The campus provides a dynamic, learner-centred environment where individual potential is nurtured and cultivated.
At BIA Innovator Campus, students, educators, and SMEs from diverse fields such as business administration and food technology come together to exchange ideas and co-create innovative solutions. This multidisciplinary approach is central to the DigiFABS project, enabling participants to gain a holistic understanding of digital transformation in the F&B sector.
Innovation and Sustainability
Innovation and sustainability are at the core of BIA Innovator Campus’s mission. The campus serves as a breeding ground for new ideas and sustainable practices in the F&B industry. Through its involvement in the DigiFABS project, BIA Innovator Campus promotes the integration of digital technologies that enhance efficiency, improve product quality, and reduce environmental impact.
National Centre of Excellence
As a national centre of excellence, BIA Innovator Campus offers a one-stop shop for everything food businesses need, from farm to fork. The campus provides full business support across all aspects of food production, ensuring a more rounded approach to sustainability. This includes technical innovation, commercial support, mentoring, training, peer support, and networking opportunities.
BIA Innovator Campus actively participates in research and development activities, contributing to the continuous improvement of digital transformation strategies. By collaborating with academic and industry partners, the campus ensures that the latest technological advancements and best practices are incorporated into the training programs and disseminated to a broader audience.
BIA Innovator Campus is committed to fostering a vibrant community of digital innovators. Through networking events, seminars, and collaborative projects, the campus connects students, educators, and industry professionals, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and the creation of valuable partnerships. This community-driven approach not only enhances the learning experience but also ensures the sustainability and scalability of digital transformation efforts in the F&B sector.
Meet the Team
Michelle Kelly holds the role of Project Coordinator at BIA Innovator, where she oversees the execution and management of multiple EU projects. This role requires meticulous attention to detail in managing deliverables, budgets, and stakeholder relationships across Europe. Her experience has honed her skills in strategic project documentation, impactful communication strategies, and hosting and attending international events—all of which are critical to ensuring the effective management of multiple projects.
Emilia Furey is a Project Manager at BIA Innovator, where she manages numerous EU projects including Erasmus+ and InterReg focus. She has expertise in specialty food retail management for SMEs in the Irish Food Industry and has excellent attention to detail in all aspects of project management, including budget control and managing tight deadlines.
The BIA Innovator Campus is a cornerstone of the DigiFABS project, driving the development of digital pioneers in the F&B industry. By providing a multidisciplinary learning environment and fostering innovation and sustainability, the campus shapes the future of food. As the F&B sector continues to evolve, the contributions of the BIA Innovator Campus will be instrumental in ensuring that SMEs are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a digital, sustainable, and dynamic world.
