Clusters meet Regions - Graz, Austria

Description

Tradition reinvented: how clusters lead resilient, innovative shifts towards a climate-neutral, digital future

In partnership with the European Cluster Collaboration Platform on behalf of the European Commission, and in collaboration with regional partners, Styria proudly hosted the forthcoming 'Clusters Meet Regions' event in Graz, Austria, on the 18 and 19 of June. Anchored in the theme of Tradition Reinvented, the event aimed to explore how clusters can spearhead transformative shifts towards a climate-neutral, digital future, aligning with European sustainability goals.

Organised since 2022 in different EU regions, the ECCP's Çlusters meet Regions' events bring together clusters and policymakers of the EU, national, regional and local level to learn from each other how to better use clusters to strengthen industrial ecosystems, to serve national/regional economic development and to liaise with other regions facing similar transition challenges. Following the successful tradition across various EU regions, this event serves as a beacon for cluster-driven economic development, echoing the region's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and resilience.

Download the:

🗓️ Final Agenda

👥 Participants' Booklet

📑Event Input Paper presenting observations on the Styrian cluster landscape and outlining some key considerations for the region’s future development.

Please find the event pictures here.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES

Building upon Styria's rich industrial heritage and forward-looking policies, the event delved into the strategic imperatives driving the region's economic development. With a keen focus on ecosystems of innovation and sustainable growth strategies, Styria's approach mirrors European directives while carving its unique path towards economic resilience.

Since the inception of the Styrian Smart Specialisation Strategy, the region has championed innovation as a catalyst for economic revitalisation. Through strategic alignment with European policies and robust regional collaboration, Styria has emerged as a trailblazer in sectors ranging from digitalisation to sustainability.

TARGET GROUPS

The 'Clusters Meet Regions' event in Graz served as a melting pot for diverse stakeholders. From cluster managers to policymakers, industry experts to SMEs, the event fostered cross-sectoral dialogue and collaboration, catalysing innovative solutions to pressing challenges.

Representing the epitome of industrial excellence, Styria's clusters — ACstyria Mobilitätscluster, Creative Industries Styria, Green Tech Valley Cluster, Holzcluster Steiermark, Human.technology Styria, and Silicon Alps Cluster — took centre stage, showcasing the region's prowess in innovation and sustainable development.

AGENDA

The event's featured a diverse array of activities, including high-level plenary sessions, interactive discussions, pitching sessions and a guided tour of Graz's innovation hubs. Additionally, the event celebrated entrepreneurial spirit with company pitches underscoring Styria's commitment to nurturing emerging talent and fostering innovation. For more details about the programme, download the Agenda

Dive into the diversity of Styria, the place where innovation and nature go hand in hand.