Abstract:
The growing demand for sustainable food systems, combined with increasing pressure on natural resources and the intensification of climate-related risks, calls for integrated innovation models capable of reconciling economic development, environmental protection, and territorial resilience. In this context, the sustainable valorization of agricultural biomass, agro-industrial by-products, medicinal and aromatic plants, apicultural products, and other biological resources offers significant opportunities for developing high-value products, improving resource-use efficiency, and reducing waste. This conceptual contribution examines the role of agri-food innovation clusters as multi-actor ecosystems supporting the transition towards a circular and knowledge-based bioeconomy. It proposes an integrated framework connecting research institutions, universities, agri-food industries, cooperatives, public authorities, entrepreneurs, and financial stakeholders. The framework focuses on four complementary functions: knowledge exchange, technology transfer, entrepreneurial support, and collaborative governance. Drawing on the Moroccan context, the analysis highlights how innovation clusters can facilitate the transformation of locally available biological resources into functional foods, natural bioactive ingredients, sustainable packaging materials, bio-based inputs, and environmentally friendly technologies. Particular attention is given to the integration of circular economy principles, including biomass recovery, by-product upgrading, process eco efficiency, and the development of territorial industrial synergies. The analysis indicates that the effectiveness of agri-food clusters depends on their capacity to connect scientific expertise with industrial needs, local knowledge, market opportunities, and environmental priorities. By reducing fragmentation among value chain actors, these ecosystems can accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies, strengthen entrepreneurship, improve the competitiveness of local products, and enhance rural socio economic resilience. Agri food innovation clusters therefore represent strategic instruments for promoting sustainable natural resource valorization and resilient regional value chains. Their development can contribute to food security, responsible production, climateaction, inclusive economic growth, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Keywords: Agri-food Innovation Clusters, Circular Bioeconomy, Natural Resource Valorization, Technology Transfer, Sustainable Value Chains, Territorial Resilience, Morocco.