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On 26-27 March 2025, representatives from 22 EU-funded projects gathered in Bratislava for a Capitalisation Workshop organised by PA7 Knowledge Society and PA8 Competitiveness under the EU Danube Region Strategy (EUSDR). The event focused on Circular Economy, Technology Transfer, Sustainable Cities & Regions, and Smart Specialisation & Industry 4.0, aiming to enhance knowledge exchange, foster synergies, and maximise the impact of ongoing projects.
POLICY ANSWERS was also present at the workshop, reaffirming our commitment to collaboration with PA7 and PA8. The Western Balkans Info Hub, powered by POLICY ANSWERS, also has been selected as Danube Flagship Project in 2024.
Discussions covered the transfer of project results into practice, particularly in companies and start-ups. Project examples included initiatives on sustainable construction, circular economy in textiles, digitalisation in construction, and technology-driven smart specialisation.
Thematic focus groups addressed challenges and recommendations in:
- Sustainable Cities & Regions – Supporting local initiatives and long-term knowledge exchange.
- Smart Specialisation & Industry 4.0 – Strengthening interdisciplinary cooperation and policymaker engagement.
- Circular Economy – Integrating sustainability principles and enhancing resource efficiency.
The workshop successfully identified common challenges, strengthened regional cooperation, and reinforced the need for continuous knowledge exchange. Future efforts will focus on capitalisation, matchmaking, and policy influence to drive innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable development in the Danube Region.
POLICY ANSWERS is happy to continue working alongside PA7, PA8, and other partners to maximise the impact of EU-funded initiatives and support the Western Balkans growth.