Call for expression of interest: 6 EU Regions to partner with North American regions 𝗳𝗼𝗿 i𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 t𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

Call for expression of interest: 6 EU Regions to partner with North American Regions for industrial transition

The European Commission's Directorate General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO), in collaboration with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), invites EU regions to participate in an innovative project aimed at enhancing regional development policy for industrial transition. 

This initiative seeks to foster transatlantic cooperation between EU and North American regions through knowledge exchange and shared experiences. The project will select six EU regions to twin with partners in North America (the US, Canada, or Mexico), providing input to thematic case studies and participating in peer learning activities.

Why participate?

  • Gain invaluable insights into effective policymaking for addressing the challenges of industrial transition.
  • Engage in constructive knowledge exchange with transatlantic partners and subject matter experts.
  • Contribute to a transformative shift from "geography of discontent" to "geography of possibility."

Key themes:

  1. Technological Change: Digital transition, adoption of AI, and Industry 4.0.
  2. Energy and Climate Transition: Pursuit of net-zero and clean energy solutions.
  3. Demographic Transition: Addressing population dynamics and migration.
  4. International Trade Policy: Managing tariffs, non-trade barriers, and localization trends.
  5. Political Polarisation: Dealing with disinformation and fostering trust.
  6. Urban Revival: Conversion of post-industrial areas into sustainable green cities.

The project will span 24 months, featuring seminars, workshops and a transatlantic forum designed to optimise collaboration and impact. Priority may be given to regions with an existing North American partner interested in participating. All interested regions are encouraged to apply here before 21 March.

Information webinar:

Interested regions are encouraged to attend a dedicated information webinar on 27 February, from 15:00 to 16:00. This session will offer insights into the project's objectives, activities and anticipated benefits, as well as an opportunity for attendees to pose questions.

Learn more and register here.