Project Launch & Collaboration
FeniceLab envisions a community-driven ecosystem where new ideas take root and innovative projects flourish. By cultivating both urban spaces—like open labs, FabLabs, and creative hubs—and rural retreats—immersed in nature and dedicated to sustainable solutions—FeniceLab seeks to make collaboration the cornerstone of transformative change.
Projects & Start-Up Potential
FeniceLab’s community is currently developing a variety of projects with the intention of turning them into successful start-ups. Our aim is to democratize research, drive down costs, and explore solutions that foster self-sufficiency and sustainability.
Professional Open-Source Lab Equipment
One of our primary goals is to elevate open-source scientific instruments to a professional standard and make them available at low cost to universities and companies alike. By doing so, FeniceLab aims to reduce the overall costs of traditional research, enabling broader access to advanced technology and empowering institutions to innovate without breaking the bank.
Focus on Self-Sufficiency & Sustainability
FeniceLab’s commitment to self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship has led us to develop solutions across four key areas—energy, water, waste management, and biomaterials. This focus has given rise to six distinct projects, each geared toward tackling a major global challenge while embedding the principles of a circular economy.
Solvia Biosystems
This initiative leverages genetically optimized microalgae to produce sustainable biofuels and high-value nutritional supplements. By employing scalable photobioreactors, Solvia captures industrial CO₂ emissions, lowers environmental impact, and contributes to a thriving circular economy
MicoMateria
MicoMateria harnesses the power of fungal mycelium to create innovative biomaterials. Targeting applications in construction, design, eco-friendly packaging, and beyond, the project seeks to replace non-renewable resources with high-performance, biodegradable alternatives.
Matrice
Dedicated to the production of microcrystalline bacterial cellulose (CBM), Matrice explores advanced biotechnological processes to develop materials with high crystallinity and mechanical strength. This versatile cellulose finds use in bio-construction, regenerative medicine, sustainable packaging, and electronics.
Evolve Filters
Evolve Filters proposes a cutting-edge wastewater treatment system that merges microorganisms with engineered sponges. By not only removing pollutants but also reclaiming valuable byproducts for biogas and biomass, the project sets a new benchmark in resource recovery and ecological water management.
HydroDesal
HydroDesal tackles the challenge of freshwater scarcity through a novel desalination method based on water electrolysis and hydrogen-oxygen combustion through fuel cell. The project’s goal is to enhance energy efficiency and affordability, making clean water more accessible on a global scale.
BioLoop
Focused on closing the loop in recycling, BioLoop develops an intelligent enzymatic digester that selectively breaks down plastics and other waste. This approach transforms discarded materials into reusable raw components, driving a circular production cycle and reducing environmental impact.
A Fertile Enviroment for Innovation
We believe that every community has untapped potential for research, creativity, and problem-solving. FeniceLab aims to create an network of open, citizen-oriented labs in urban settings and rural research centers dedicated to off-grid experiments, resource circularity, and environmental stewardship. In these spaces, scientists, engineers, artists, and curious minds can gather to share knowledge, invent, and refine practical solutions.
Urban Labs
Located in accessible city spaces, these labs act as collaborative venues for research, prototyping ideas, hosting workshops, and running demonstrations. Participants can experiment with open-source hardware, engage in hands-on DIY projects, and network with like-minded innovators.
Rural Research Centers
Nestled in nature, these hubs foster projects aimed at sustainability and self-sufficiency. From testing permaculture designs and renewable energy systems to exploring eco-friendly construction methods, rural spaces allow direct interaction with the land and immediate proof-of-concept trials.
The Osteodes Initiative
One of our pivotal endeavors is taking shape on the island of Ustica, in Sicily, where we’re establishing a rural research center dedicated to sustainable technologies. Our goal is to help Ustica become a model eco-island, self-sufficient and in harmony with its surrounding environment. By experimenting with circular resource management and low-impact solutions, the project will serve as a blueprint for other islands or remote rural communities around the world.
In addition to technology and ecology, this center will also function as a social space, hosting alternative schooling initiatives, Erasmus+ Youth Exchanges, volunteer programs, festivals, and fairs. By integrating education, culture, and research, we hope to forge a living example of holistic sustainability that enriches local communities and inspires global change.
Supporting and Strengthening Ecovillages
FeniceLab wants to collaborate with ecovillages and sustainable communities, helping them to set up or enhance research-oriented infrastructure. Through this partnership, ecovillages gain access to biotechnologies tools, such as fermenters, incubators, and thermocyclers, and knowledge which enable them to implement sustainable agricultural practices, improve resource management, and foster self-sufficiency. At the same time, this collaboration strengthens FeniceLab’s ecosystem by extending its reach into vibrant, purpose-driven communities that share a common vision of building new models of life and society.
These partnerships are more than technical exchanges; they are opportunities to co-create environments where research and sustainability intersect with real-world applications. By establishing independent laboratories within eco-villages, FeniceLab provides spaces for ongoing experimentation, local problem-solving, and innovation. These labs become vital hubs for developing circular resource systems and exploring regenerative practices, allowing communities to thrive while respecting their surrounding ecosystems.
Building Bridges with Companies
FeniceLab’s ethos is rooted in open collaboration. We encourage our network of researchers, students, and creative professionals to partner with established businesses—whether agricultural, biotechnological, or otherwise—that share our vision of responsible innovation. These collaborations bring fresh perspectives, accelerate development, and create practical outcomes that benefit both local economies and the greater public.
Support & Get Involved
FeniceLab thrives on collaboration and shared vision. There are many ways you can actively contribute to building a world of accessible innovation and sustainability. Whether you want to join a project, propose a new idea, offer a space for a community lab, or work in an existing lab, your involvement makes a difference.
If you’d prefer to support specific initiatives financially, you can also donate directly to a project or laboratory. Every contribution, whether in time, resources, or funding, helps us take one step closer to making these ideas a reality.
Let’s work together to create opportunities, empower communities, and drive meaningful change.