Under Specific Objective 1 (SO1), the project completed a comprehensive mapping of 12 regions (6 core and 6 associated), assessing regional capacities, challenges and Living Lab infrastructures. This analysis informed the identification of relevant barrier cases for the study visits. Based on these insights, the Operational Handbook of Living Labs was revised to reflect deep tech and Industry 5.0 perspectives. In addition, a co creation methodology was developed and delivered through partner training to ensure harmonised stakeholder engagement across regions.
Under Specific Objective 2 (SO2), SIXFOLD launched its transnational study visit programme to enable cross regional learning and experimentation. Two study visits were implemented during M1–M14 and documented in Deliverable D2.3.1:
• Belgium (May 2025, Kortrijk): focusing on data management and Digitalisation as a Service.
• Finland (June 2025, Seinäjoki): addressing regulatory challenges and consumer acceptance of Novel Foods, including precision fermentation.
Both visits applied a structured problem solving and co creation approach, directly involving SMEs, regulators and technology providers. Further study visits were held or planned in Lithuania (November 2025), focusing on funding and finance barriers, and Spain (February 2026), addressing advanced digital twins in food processing, including skills, data access and cybersecurity.
Regarding Specific Objective 3 (SO3), the consortium drafted and validated the SIXFOLD Action Plan (D3.1) integrating findings from the regional mapping and study visits. The Action Plan proposes a Knowledge Transfer Committee (KTC) to support sustained collaboration and outlines SME capacity building measures such as digital maturity assessments and mentorship. Early impact is visible through strong stakeholder interest in the co creation methodology and thematic workshops. The Living Lab framework developed in SIXFOLD provides a replicable model for supporting the twin transition beyond the agri food sector. The project actively involves regulators as core stakeholders, demonstrated during the Finland study visit where regulatory sandboxing concepts for precision fermentation were explored.