Published on 4 June 2025
Algae’s contribution to a more sustainable Europe is growing rapidly. On 19 May, the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) published a new factsheet titled “Algae: Small Organisms, Big Potential – A decade of EU support driving innovation”, shedding light on how EU funding has significantly advanced the algae sector over the past ten years.
The factsheet presents a comprehensive overview based on a portfolio analysis of EU-funded algae projects released in April 2025. It highlights how targeted investments have fostered innovation, addressed key industry challenges, and helped unlock the full potential of algae – from sustainable food and bioplastics to marine restoration and environmental protection.
Key highlights from the analysis include:
- €559 million invested in 219 algae-focused projects between 2014 and 2023
- 1,470 organisations involved across Europe, with high participation from Germany, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Portugal
- Funding from major EU programmes such as Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe, LIFE, EMFF, and EMFAF
These projects are already delivering results. From Seafood Algternative, which develops algae-based seafood substitutes, to REEForest LIFE, which restores endangered macroalgal forests in the Mediterranean, EU-supported initiatives are driving both local action and broader green transitions.
Among the contributing initiatives is EU4Algae, which continues to play an important role in fostering collaboration, visibility, and knowledge-sharing across the algae community.
Looking ahead, the factsheet outlines several priorities for scaling up the sector, including:
- Supporting advanced bio-based technologies
- Strengthening cross-sector collaboration
- Reducing R&D costs
- Boosting consumer awareness and education
As algae continue to offer solutions to climate, food, and biodiversity challenges, this strategic EU backing is paving the way for new markets, cleaner seas, and sustainable growth – bringing clear benefits to both people and planet.
Read more – dive into the full factsheet!
Additional information
Join the #EU4Algae conversation and keep an eye on the EU4Algae Forum to stay updated on ongoing activities, initiatives, and sector updates.
Got questions? Contact us at: contact
eu4algae [dot] eu (contact[at]eu4algae[dot]eu).
Have you explored the EU4Algae Interactive Platform?
Designed to promote algae product awareness and increase consumer knowledge, the EU4Algae Interactive Platform offers a range of activities. Take the EU4Algae Quiz to test your algae knowledge, participate in our Survey to share your algae-eating habits (the first 200 respondents get a free eBook!) and play the interactive Game to discover which type of algae you are.