B-Trust Masterclass 1: Co-Creation for Biotech Trust Building
Unlocking Consumer Trust in Innovative Biotechnologies: A Masterclass Series
The B-Trust project invites you to join a series of 8 exclusive masterclasses designed to explore the vital role of consumer perceptions in shaping the future of biotechnologies within the agri-food and biobased sectors. These masterclasses are your gateway to cutting-edge insights on how to successfully engage with consumers, address their concerns, and build trust in sustainable innovations that can transform Europe's future.

Masterclass 1: Co-Creating Biotech Trust in Agri-Food and Bio-based Industries
The series kicks off with a focus on the critical role of consumer acceptance in the adoption of innovative biotechnologies. This masterclass features testimonials from Prof. Jessica Aschemann-Witzel, a research institute and a leading company, showcasing how they integrate stakeholder concerns into their R&D activities. The session will close with a spotlight on Alice Down the Rabbit Hole, experts in multi-stakeholder engagement, sharing their breakthrough co-creation programme developed for the B-Trust project. This approach not only captures consumer perceptions but also fosters trust among key groups, including consumers, farmers, and industry players.
Webinar Program
09:00 – 09:10 – Welcome & General Introduction
09:10 – 09:25 – Importance of fostering consumer acceptance of agri-food and biobased biotechnologies by Prof. Jessica Aschemann-Witzel, Prof. at Aarus University.
09:25 – 09:40 – Grand Challenges testimonial by Dr. Laurien Van Dyck, Portfolio manager , VIB Grand Challenges Program.
09:40 – 09:55 – Testimonial of Paleo, a Belgian agri-food biotech start-up, on their views and perceptions of the importance of consumer acceptance in biotechnology by Anna De Cock, Paleo.
09:55 – 10:15 – Digging for trust: How co-creation can help assess the true beliefs and drivers of consumers and other stakeholders by Veerle Rijckaert, Alice down the rabbit hole co-founder.
10:15 – 10:30 – Q&A, wrap up & closing
Join us in this dynamic masterclass series to learn how you can harness the power of consumer perceptions to drive the success of your biotechnological innovations. Together, we can build a more sustainable, trusted future.
More info on the Masterclass Series
Why Attend?
2 Essential Methodology Sessions: Gain access to state-of-the-art tools and approaches developed by B-Trust experts for capturing stakeholder perceptions and effectively communicating evidence-based risks and benefits. These sessions will equip you with the skills needed to build trust and ensure public acceptance of biotechnological advancements.
6 Deep-Dive Sessions: Discover fresh insights from the B-Trust project on how consumers view both the benefits and risks of key biotechnologies. Learn how these perspectives can directly impact your ability to market and scale innovative applications, from industry leaders to investors, governments, and legislators.
Who Should Attend?
If you’re a key player in shaping the future of biotechnology, this masterclass series is for you! Whether you’re from the bio-based or agri-food sectors, an investor, a biotech researcher or expert, a public authority, or a policymaker, these sessions will provide you with the critical insights you need to navigate the complexities of trust and social acceptance. You'll walk away with practical tools to successfully implement biotechnologies and build lasting trust among consumers and stakeholders.