The Government of the Azores approved as projects of Regional Interest (PIR) two private investments of 11.8 million Euros on Terceira and S. Miguel islands which provide for the creation of, at least, about 30 new direct jobs.
 
As published today in the Official Journal, the project "Production of Microalgae and Antioxidant Food Supplements," promoted by the company Algicel – Biotecnologia e Investigação, Lda., São Miguel, is focused on the intensive production of Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae, through a patented industrial process.
 
The project comprises its dehydration and extraction by the extractive process of one of the metabolites, namely Astaxanthin. It is incorporated in food supplements with antioxidant effect to be sold in the external market.
 
On Terceira, the project "Installation of an industrial unit for the production of prefabricated panels in lightweight concrete," promoted by Filipe Guerreiro and Rui Trigo, comprises the construction of an industrial unit for the production of prefabricated lightweight concrete panels.
 
The process of recognition of Project of Regional Interest is requested by promoters to the Vice-Presidency of the Government.
 
PIR aims to promote and distinguish private investment projects that demonstrate a strong impact and a structuring effect in strategic sectors for regional development.
 
Its approval immediately activates a system of continuous monitoring system that allow SDEA to follow up the evolution of the project and allows the increase of 5% in the non-refundable aid to be granted under the Incentive Subsystem for the Promotion of Exports.