EU-NET BioFlows

Avans University of Applied Sciences follows a mission driven research strategy in which the transition in materials and energy plays a central role. This strategy is implemented through MNEXT, a Centre of expertise within Avans that connects applied research with education and innovation in its regions. MNEXT works on replacing fossil based materials with biobased, renewable alternatives and on speeding up the energy transition through improved energy efficiency and smart use of renewable energy systems. In multidisciplinary projects, MNEXT collaborates with companies, governments, educational partners, and other knowledge institutes to develop solutions that can be used directly in practice.
For over a decade, MNEXT has been a trusted partner in regional, national, and international projects on the biobased and circular economy. Building on this experience, MNEXT now wants to strengthen its role in European programmes such as Horizon Europe, with a special focus on biomass valorisation and circular biomass flows. This means converting agricultural residues and other biological resources into higher value products like advanced materials, green chemicals, and low carbon energy carriers, and integrating these into circular value chains.
This focus matches regional, national, and European ambitions. In the Netherlands and across the EU, biomass is seen as a key resource for a sustainable, circular bioeconomy, but it must be used efficiently, responsibly, and preferably for high value applications. Through living labs, pilot facilities, and strong regional networks, MNEXT offers a practical platform to turn these policy goals into real innovation projects.
The EUNET BioFlows project builds on this role. It aims to create a strong European network around sustainable biomass flows, organise cocreation and proposal workshops, and develop a joint roadmap. This will prepare a competitive consortium for a Horizon Europe Cluster 6 call and lay the foundation for long term collaboration across Europe.