Project e-AQUAF Launched to Promote Intelligent and Sustainable Aquaculture Development in the Black Sea Region
Varna, February 2026
On February 5, 2026, the international project e-AQUAF (Intelligent Aquaculture Farming) was officially launched – a large-scale initiative aimed at the digital transformation and sustainable development of the aquaculture sector in the Black Sea region. The project brings together partners from Romania, Armenia, Greece, Georgia, Ukraine, and Bulgaria, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainable production, and the advancement of the blue economy.
The project is implemented under the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme 2021–2027 and will run from February 2026 to August 2028, with a total budget of approximately €1.39 million.
🎯 Main Objective
e-AQUAF aims to accelerate the transition toward intelligent, environmentally friendly, and economically sustainable aquaculture production through the implementation of digital solutions, innovative training models, and cross-border cooperation.
Project Activities
Over the 30-month implementation period, the following key activities will be carried out:
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Development of smart real-time water environment monitoring systems;
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Application of data-driven and artificial intelligence-based technologies;
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Creation of a training and analytical platform for knowledge exchange and best practice sharing;
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Implementation of research and pilot activities in the aquaculture sector;
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Support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through innovation and enhanced competitiveness;
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Raising awareness about sustainable production and responsible fish consumption.
The project goes beyond technological modernization by establishing a long-term sustainable model that contributes to regional economic growth, environmental protection, and the creation of new employment opportunities.
Bulgarian Partner
The Bulgarian partner in the initiative is the Institute for Youth Initiatives and Innovations (IYII), a non-governmental organization with extensive experience in managing European projects, educational initiatives, and international partnerships.
IYII will contribute to the project through:
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Coordination of training activities;
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Development of educational tools and materials;
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Dissemination of project results among young people, educational institutions, and local communities;
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Building partnerships between the NGO sector, business, and academia.
The organization will play a key role in linking innovation in aquaculture with youth policies and sustainable regional development.
Impact and Expected Results
e-AQUAF is expected to contribute to:
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Increased environmental sustainability in the sector;
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Improved efficiency and competitiveness of local producers;
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Strengthened cross-border cooperation;
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Development of digital skills and innovation capacity;
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Sustainable resource management in the Black Sea region.
Through an integrated approach combining technology, education, and international partnership, e-AQUAF lays the foundation for modern, intelligent, and sustainable aquaculture.
📩 Contacts for More Information
Institute for Youth Initiatives and Innovations (IYII)
Varna, Bulgaria
office@youthvarna.eu
youth_institute@abv.bg
