A sneak peek into transformative innovation

A sneak peek into transformative innovation

Berlaymont Piazza was buzzing in the afternoon of 2 June as we heard about the first results and future plans of the EU Preparatory Action (PA) "Innovation for place-based transformation". Around 200 territories have been participating and working side-by-side with the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission in this initiative supported by the European Parliament to increase the capacities of the territories, mobilise resources and experiment to face pressing challenges, ranging from decarbonisation to digitalisation.

High-level EU representatives, including among others Commissioners Teresa Ribera and Jessika Roswall, and MEPs Christian Ehler, Lina Galvez and Anna-Maja Henriksson gathered together with territorial representatives active in the PA to discuss the achievements of the PA so far and take a sneak peek into three experimentation journeys of Ostrobothnia, Catalonia and Banská Bystrica.

Key messages included:

  • Even if there is talent everywhere in Europe, the opportunities for innovation vary based on institutions and capabilities. Therefore, it is important to ensure that initiatives such as the place-based innovation for transformation become structural
  • Place-based innovation is already spearheading Slovakia's National and Regional Partnership Plans and their strategy building on NEB principles
  • Economically, Europe is a continent of regions. Connecting these regions based on their innovation priorities is essential
  • Europe thrives on diversity. We need both excellent science and place-based innovation

In addition to hearing first-hand experiences proving the power of supporting place-based transformative innovation, participants could also hear about new experimentation journeys launched in areas of water resilience; territorial preparedness; and innovative cities.

ERRIN has been proudly engaged in the PA alongside Climate KIC and EURADA as the support team, co-facilitating the capacity building activities and experimentation journeys in themes such as reducing reliance on fossil fuels; climate adaptation; circularity; digital services; or New European Bauhaus.

We look very forward to continuing this work!

Learn more about ERRIN's engagement in the PA here.