Innovative Digital Solutions for Circularity and Sustainability - transformation of SMEs in Agri-Food sector

The opportunity focuses on innovative digital solutions to transform SMEs in the agri-food sector by implementing principles of the circular economy. By leveraging technology such as AI and machine learning, it aims to create a more sustainable and resilient food system that benefits both the environment and the economy. Our contribution will include SMEs (Business School) and AI expertise (Computer Science School).

Bangor Business School brings a wealth of expertise to this initiative. The School is renowned for its research excellence in areas such as sustainable regional development, financial markets, consumer behavior, and governance and regulatory policy [1]. Specifically, the Rhanbarth – Centre for Sustainable Regions and Economies at Bangor Business School focuses on inclusive and sustainable regional development, making it an ideal partner for projects aimed at transforming the agri-food sector [1].

The School's commitment to sustainability and transformative impact aligns perfectly with the goals of this project. Bangor Business School offers state-of-the-art facilities and professional development programs that will support the successful implementation of innovative digital solutions[1]. Their active seminar series and dissemination of research through podcasts, blogs, and civic engagement further enhance their contribution to creating a more sustainable and resilient food system[1]. Bangor Business School runs Business Clinic for SMEs to support regional businesses with identification of management problems and offering innovative solutions. As such we offer action research lab involving companies from agri-food sector to develop and test data ecosystems across food supply chains.

By combining the strengths of SMEs and AI expertise from the Computer Science School with the research capabilities of Bangor Business School, this project is well-positioned to drive significant advancements in the agri-food sector, fostering a circular economy that benefits both the environment and the economy.

[1] Research at Bangor Business School - Bangor University