AiR Småland is a new residency program run by the Cultural Development Section of Region Jönköping County, with support from the Swedish Council for Cultural Affairs. The goal is to provide space and time for artistic development by offering residency in the county. The residencies are provided through residency scholarships for visiting artists in residence who will be welcomed by a local scholarship recipient/host and where both will be given opportunities to focus on artistic investigative work as well as opportunities for inspiration and in-depth studies within their field. The residence must be linked to the opportunities provided by the location and in accordance with the wishes of the local scholarship recipient/host. The purpose of AiR Småland is to support the community for independent arts, cultural operators and institutions of Jönköping County, while the county’s cultural life is stimulated by the exchange with visiting artists in residence.

AiR Småland will welcome artists in residence who are active in the artistic fields of literature, dance, art and design as well as film. For the first residency, which takes place between 9 September - 9 December 2024, we have chosen to focus on literature.

We are now looking for visiting artists in residence for AiR Småland. Scholarships for the period are awarded to the parties. 

Visiting authors in residence

Through AiR Småland we want to provide an opportunity for authors to devote themselves to their writing and we are now looking for published authors from the rest of Sweden, the Nordic countries and internationally. The residency focuses on artistic investigative work and provides opportunities for inspiration and in-depth studies and is aimed at authors from all literary genres: novels/stories, poetry and drama. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2024.

Read more about AiR Småland for authors in residence and apply here

Find more information through Jönköping's website here

Applications for local scholarship recipients/hosts to be submitted via the form below:
Application for scholarship recipients/hosts (Extern länk)

Applications for visiting authors in residence to be submitted via the form below:
Application for visiting authors in residence (Extern länk)

The deadline for applications is 31 May 2024.

CONTACT

Christel Molin
Project Manager, AiR Småland
+46 (0)72-224 07 26
christel.molin@rjl.se

Science diplomacy has traditionally been positioned in the framework of national and supranational endeavors. Consequently, the discourse and investigation into science diplomacy at the subnational regional level remains scant. This oversight is notable considering these actors also play a key role on the international stage, including through leveraging their scientific research and innovation capabilities to bolster their global profiles and contribute to solving global problems.

This science diplomacy seminar will be held in concert with the Unit on Non-Traditional Diplomacy (UNU-CRIS and BSoG), and EUTOPIA associate partner Region Västra Götaland. The event aims to facilitate a rich dialogue among regional representatives and academics to share and explore effective strategies for achieving their science diplomacy objectives. A focal point of discussion will be the intricate interplay between universities and their regional contexts, delving into how this partnership epitomizes the 'triple helix' model of innovation, characterized by the collaborative interdependence of academia, industry, and government.

During this event, we will:

• Explore how regions can utilize their scientific institutions, research centers, and innovation ecosystems to influence global scientific collaboration and diplomacy.
• Examine the contributions of regions to global issues such as climate change, public health, and sustainable development through science diplomacy.
• Investigate the ways in which science diplomacy can spur innovation, attract investment, and promote economic development at regional levels.
• Delve into the models for successful collaboration between academic institutions and regional governments to enhance research capabilities and educational opportunities.
• Identify the unique challenges faced by regions in engaging with science diplomacy, including resource constraints, political dynamics, and coordination with national policies.

To learn more, and to register to the event, click here.

As the work towards the next EU Framework Programme for R&I (FP10) continues, ERRIN is pleased to share its two-page input drafted for the attention of the Expert Group on the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe in reply to their call for position papers. The paper is a concise compilation of the reflections on FP10 done at ERRIN so far, highlighting topics of key importance: EU Missions, Widening and ecosystem approach, alongside a few overarching recommendations. Read the messages in the attached document.

At the same time, together with members, ERRIN is also working on a series of broader input papers focused on key themes for the community. The first paper on EU Missions is currently being finalised and the joint work on Widening one will start shortly following the recent Policy and S3 Working Groups meeting on Widening in FP10 and impact on cohesion policy post-2027. Papers on other issues will follow later this year. 

The work on the broader input papers is carried out within the ERRIN Policy Working Group. If you are an ERRIN member, are not part of the Policy WG yet, and would like to be involved in the drafting process, please drop a line to ewa.chomicz@errin.eu .

On Tuesday 21 May 2024, the ICT Working Group tackled the question of the support given by Digital Innovation Hubs to public authorities in their digital transformation journey. Please find all the presentation attached.

2024 is a year of political change in Brussels and in Europe. Our 2024 Spring Annual General Meeting will dive us to discussing how these political changes will impact ERRIN, its members as well as regional innovation more broadly.

The 2024 AGM will be held on 20 June from 15:00 to 17:15 CEST, followed by networking drinks until 19:00.

The event will be held in person at Scotland House (Scotland Europa, Rdpt Robert Schuman 6, 1040 Bruxelles). Registrations are now closed. Please email teresa.vio@errin.eu with any questions.

An ERRIN two-pager for European decision makers (in attachment), aiming to introduce the network and our value to the new MEPs, will be presented during the event. In addition to the formal part, the AGM will also feature discussions among members as well as panel debate on the future of regional innovation.

AGENDA

Welcome coffee 

14.30-15.00 

FORMAL BUSINESS 

15.00-16:00 

Chaired by Sarah English, ERRIN Management Board Co-Chair 

• Welcome & Approval of the agenda and minutes (attached, presentation available here) from the Autumn Annual General Meeting 2023 
• Financial management (financial slides attached)
  • Presentation and approval of the audited accounts 2023
  • Approval of the 2024 Budget
  • Information about indexation
• Update from the ERRIN Secretariat
• Update from the Management Board
• Presentation of the priorities of the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU by Ágota Dávid, Science and Technology Attaché, Competitiveness Unit, Permanent Representation of Hungary to the European Union

COFFEE DISCUSSION – GETTING PREPARED FOR THIS YEAR’S POLITICAL CHANGES 

16:00-16:30 

POLICY DEBATE – WHAT FUTURE FOR REGIONAL INNOVATION? 

16:30-17:15 

Following the current debates on the emerging policy priorities as well as uncertainty around the future of cohesion policy, the Annual General Meeting features a panel discussion on the possible impact of these changes on regional innovation. We aim to have an inspiring debate around future perspectives, how to get better prepared, and how to become more resilient when facing future changes and challenges. 

Speakers:

• Margherita Bacigalupo, Deputy Head of Unit Innovation Policies and Economic Impact, JRC, European Commission
• Alison Hunter, EPPC Director and EPC Senior Adviser
• Alasdair Reid, EFIS Centre Executive Director

NETWORKING DRINKS 

17:15-19:00 

In view of the upcoming departure of ERRIN's current Director of projects, Ryan Titley, ERRIN is looking for a replacement to start in September 2024. The new colleague will work closely with the ERRIN Director on strategic planning, and lead the implementation and development of ERRIN's current and future project portfolio.

About the role

The Head of projects will coordinate ERRIN’s involvement in European projects, ensure strategic planning of new projects, and foster strategic partnerships with external stakeholders, including EU institutions. Together with the ERRIN team, the Head of projects will develop and ensure an excellent delivery of ERRIN’s project portfolio.

The Head of projects will work closely with the ERRIN Director on financial planning and management, as well as staff management. As part of the organisation’s management team, the Head of projects will take an active role in developing the network.

ERRIN currently participates in ten European projects mainly funded by the Horizon Europe programme. ERRIN project engagement is driven by a network strategy and is delivered in close collaboration with the ERRIN member Working Groups and thematic Clusters.

Find the full overview of responsibilities in attachment.

Candidate profile

We are looking for a colleague with a minimum of five years experience in a management role involving strategic planning, financial planning and coordinating a team. The candidate should have extensive experience in project management, and working with local and regional governments and their stakeholders, be familiar with the functioning of a membership association and have excellent interpersonal, networking and communication skills.

The candidate is expected to start in September 2024 and should be based in Brussels or willing to relocate at the start of their contract.

Find the full overview of requirements in attachment.

What we offer

We offer a permanent contract with a competitive monthly salary between €5000-6000 depending on experience. Other benefits include 13th month, hospitalisation and healthcare insurance, meal vouchers and transport pass for Brussels.

The average weekly working time at ERRIN is set at 40h/week with reduction of working time (RTT).

ERRIN promotes a healthy work-life balance and offers flexible office/homeworking schedule.

How to apply

Applicants are requested to send a one-page letter clearly describing their experience related to the requirements, including the possible starting date, and a CV with contacts for two references to teresa.vio@errin.eu.

Please mention “ERRIN Head of Projects” in the subject of the email.

The deadline to apply is 26 May at 17:00 CEST. 

Dear ERRIN Members,

On behalf of the Central Denmark EU Office, representing the region of Central Denmark in Brussels, we are reaching out to the ERRIN community to seek expertise and potential partners in addressing key challenges in our public transport system.

Current Challenges:

1. Procurement: Our transit authorities operate primarily with gross contracts, placing most risks and responsibilities on contractors. This system, along with a legislative 5% margin limit for contractors, hampers the exploration of innovative solutions in public transport.

2. Efficient Route Planning: Both urban and rural areas in Central Denmark face difficulties in optimizing public transport routes to serve the diverse needs of the population effectively.

3. Multimodal Mobility Integration: Although there is interest in integrating bike-sharing and car-sharing into our public transport offerings, legislative barriers currently impede these initiatives.

What We Are Seeking:

We are looking to learn from the experiences and insights of other regions, cities, and potential partners within the ERRIN network. Specifically, we are interested in:

- Innovative Procurement Processes: Successful approaches for engaging contractors and operators in public transport.

- Effective Route Planning and Optimization: Strategies that have improved route planning in other regions.

- Multimodal Mobility Integration: Best practices for integrating different forms of transport and mobility services into a cohesive public transport system.

Call to Action:

We would greatly appreciate any information, resources, or connections you could share that would aid us in tackling these challenges. We are also keen to participate in relevant partner projects or initiatives  and work towards shared potential solutions.

We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate and enhance public transport management across Europe!

Please contact us at mhl@centraldenmark.eu

The TRAMI Project, cordially invites you to join an inspiring discussion on the future of the EU Missions and the launch of the TRAMI Mission Playbook. In the past two years, the project on transnational cooperation on Missions TRAMI collected the experiences of many European regions and countries. They undertook to condense these experiences into a ‘Mission Playbook’ which highlights a few of the many interesting examples of practical implementation of missions. At this event, they will present the print version of the Mission Playbook and discuss some of the main lessons with authors and representatives of the countries and regions. 

The event will be held in NCBR Office in Brussels (Rue Belliard 40, Brussels, 5th Floor) on 25 June, 13:00–16:00.

To learn more, and to register, click here here.

The Bioeconomy Working Group is looking for regional examples related to soil health and protection to present in its upcoming meeting, which will take place in person on 10 June at the ERRIN office in Brussels. The presentation can also be done online to support actors from back home in getting engaged in the discussion.  

The Bioeconomy WG Leaders are looking for a diverse range of examples, including existing strategies and policies related to soil health at local and regional levels, to support mid and long-term commitment to soil health and strengthen evidence-based policy-making in this field. Piloting projects and initiatives showcasing how to embed good practices in policies (agriculture, environment, bioeconomy, spatial planning) or how to ensure the engagement and collaboration between the different actors on the mid and long-term, are also of particular interest. 

ERRIN members and their stakeholders interested in sharing their examples during the upcoming meeting are invited to email gianpiero.petruzziello@errin.eu by Thursday 30 May 2024, with a short description of the proposed example.   

Learn more and register for the event here. 

Building upon the results achieved by the REWARDHeat project and exploring successful district heating projects in Europe, the panellists will discuss future collaboration as well as opportunities and obstacles.

The panel will also discuss strategies for maximising the impact of EU funding on district heating development, reflect on the innovative technologies helping to develop the district heating sector, and look at the role of district heating in helping us achieve a more climate neutral society.

After the panel discussion, Scotland Europa and EHPA would like to invite you to join them for a networking reception to exchange ideas, build connections, and lay the groundwork for future collaborations in the district heating space.

You can register for the event here.