Maribor will officially launch the ORbITaLA Innovation Hub, operated by the Regional Development Agency for the Podravje Region – Maribor. This new center is dedicated to supporting the development of local food networks in Slovenia, such as cooperatives, linking local producers and consumers. These networks will aim to create sustainable, community-based food systems, making locally grown food more accessible while reducing environmental impact. The ORbITaLA Innovation Hub aims to improve access to locally produced food while contributing to reduction of the environmental footprint.
Alternative Food Networks connect local producers and consumers and provide direct access to fresh, sustainably produced food, bypassing traditional retail chains and reducing intermediaries. This fosters more genuine, eco-friendly connections between local producers and consumers.
ORbITaLA is part of the international Food4CE project, coordinated by the University of Maribor, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Transport Engineering and Architecture (UM FGPA). The aim of the project is to set up five regional innovation hubs in Slovenia, Austria, Italy, Hungary and Poland. These hubs will share best practices in digitalization and logistics for local food networks across these countries.
Located at Pobreška cesta 20 in Maribor, ORbITaLA will be open every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering both virtual and in-person services. The hub is designed as a collaborative space for researchers, representatives of Alternative Food Networks, local food providers, logistics operators and policy makers to develop practical solutions for sustainable local food systems and improve the efficiency of these networks.
At the launch, two key tools were introduced for the first time – the Knowledge Transfer Platform (KTP) and the Matchmaking Platform (MP). The two platforms will play an important role in sharing knowledge and helping local food networks improve logistics and build stronger connections within Alternative Food Networks. The goal is to strengthen local food supply, increase the efficiency of short supply chains, and promote environmental sustainability.
The ORbITaLA Innovation Hub will bring together key players in local food supply chains – from producers and logistics operators to retailers and consumers. This will help improve transportation efficiency, reduce distribution costs, optimize route planning, minimize food waste, and establish a more resilient and sustainable food system in the region – one that can better address local needs and environmental challenges.
Additional information:
Regional Development Agency for Podravje – Maribor
Contact person for the Innovation Hub ORbITaLA: Danijela Kocuvan
Telephone: 00386 41 630 678
E-mail: danijela.kocuvan@rra-podravje.si