VALUABLE Final exploitation plan

(Draft version pending on EC approval) VALUABLE addresses the urgent need for sustainable alternatives to fossil-based and land-intensive resources, such as palm oil, by valorising non-plant fungal biomass—specifically, Aspergillus niger, a by-product of the citric acid industry. The project demonstrates an innovative biotechnological process for converting fungal biomass into yeast oil and animal-free chitosan derivatives. These bio-based materials have potential applications in cosmetics, adhesives, and resins, supporting the transition toward a circular bioeconomy. The project’s innovation lies in its integrated approach combining enzymatic treatment, microbial conversion, and eco-friendly downstream processing to deliver high-value, sustainable alternatives. VALUABLE seeks to prove the technical and economic viability of this process at pilot scale, reducing dependency on conventional plant or fossil feedstocks while enhancing resource efficiency. Key partners include experts in fungal biotechnology, process engineering, and market analysis, working jointly to ensure the replicability and scalability of the developed solutions. The consortium brings together industrial leaders, academic institutions, and SMEs from across Europe, fostering a multidisciplinary collaboration that connects research-driven innovation with market-driven applications. This joint effort aims to ensure that the outcomes of the project are not only scientifically robust, but also commercially relevant and environmentally impactful. This document presents the Final Exploitation Plan for the VALUABLE project, delivered in project month 34 (M34). It outlines the strategies for maximising the uptake and impact of project results, including the identification of exploitable outcomes, intellectual property considerations, market opportunities, and post-project sustainability actions. The plan is designed to guide partners in translating scientific advances into real-world applications and market opportunities beyond the project’s lifetime.