How can regions create the conditions for social innovation to take root, grow and deliver lasting impact?

Designed for representatives of European regions and social innovation stakeholders, this afternoon seminar will bring together regional experiences, policy perspectives and opportunities to connect with peers from across Europe.

What you will take away

• Insights into how regional social innovation clusters can strengthen ecosystems, connect actors and help promising solutions to achieve wider impact
• Practical lessons from RESIST partner regions and other European examples on collaboration, ecosystem development and the conditions that enable social innovation to flourish
• A better understanding of how smart specialisation can support social innovation, and how regional strategies can contribute to more inclusive and resilient communities
• Perspectives on the future place of social innovation in EU regional policy, including how regional, national and European actors can work together more effectively
• New contacts, potential partners and cooperation opportunities.

The seminar will take place back-to-back with the European Social Innovation Forum 2026, held in Brussels on 7–8 October 2026. Together, the two events offer a valuable opportunity to explore social innovation from complementary perspectives, from strengthening regional ecosystems and policy frameworks to scaling impact, building evidence and inspiring collective action.

Preliminary Programme

12:00–13:00 Welcome lunch & registration

13:00–13:30 Opening

13:30–15:00 Can regional clusters help boost social innovation?

15:00–16:30 Can smart specialisation help boost social innovation?

16:30–17:10 What’s the future place of social innovation in EU regional policy?

17:10–17:30 Future cooperation and funding opportunities & seminar closing

17:30–19:00 Evening reception

Join the conversation on how regions can innovate together for more inclusive and resilient communities!

The registration is available here.

Learn more about RESIST