The Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA), the Lombardy Energy Cleantech Cluster, the Małopolska Region and the Slovene Dutch Business Platform (SDBP) are pleased to invite you to the Vanguard Initiative Hydrogen Pilot Summit, taking place on 26 October 2026, from 09:30 to 13:00, at the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU (Rue Joseph II 14, 1000 Brussels). 

The event will bring together regional authorities, industry representatives, research organisations and innovation ecosystems from across Europe to discuss how interregional cooperation can accelerate the development and deployment of hydrogen technologies and value chains. The programme will also feature presentations from the European Hydrogen Valleys Partnership and the European Commission, providing participants with insights into current European initiatives, policy developments and opportunities for further collaboration in the hydrogen sector.

The programme will delve into three key areas shaping the future of hydrogen innovation and deployment:

• European Hydrogen Valleys & Mega-Corridors – examining large-scale, cross-border infrastructure projects, hydrogen corridors and European partnerships;
• Advanced Materials, Systems & Technical Innovation – focusing on next-generation hydrogen components, materials research and pilot testing and technology centres;
• Smart Local Systems, Digital Twins & Autonomy – exploring smart energy systems, local energy communities, digital twins, AI-driven management and regional energy autonomy.

Organised on the occasion of the European Hydrogen Week, this event offers stakeholders a valuable platform to exchange ideas, strengthen interregional cooperation, and define strategic priorities for the Vanguard Initiative Hydrogen Pilot heading into 2027.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

The activity is co-financed by the SPIRIT Slovenia Business Development Agency and the Ministry of Economy, Labour and Sport.