On 27-28 May 2025, representatives of the I3-EPIC project consortium met in Bologna, Italy, for a key working session aimed at reinforcing interregional collaboration and exploring new synergies in the packaging sector. The meeting took place alongside broader initiatives focused on regional innovation ecosystems and support mechanisms for enterprises, particularly within the context of the Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3).
A Day of Insight and Exchange
Participants had the opportunity to engage in a dynamic agenda that featured expert insights from key regional stakeholders:
- Paolo Rosso, Senior Advisor at the General Directorate for Knowledge, Research, Labour and Enterprise of Emilia-Romagna, opened the session by presenting the region’s innovation ecosystem and policy framework.
- Valeria Bandini, Head of Europe and Internationalisation at Art-ER, shared strategic perspectives on international collaboration and the region’s involvement in EU-wide networks and alliances.
- Lucia Cortelli, Project Officer at Art-ER, offered a closer look at innovation tools supporting enterprises, including the Matcher programme and approaches to Open Innovation.
Strengthening Partnerships, Driving Future Impact
The event provided not only an excellent platform for reviewing the I3-EPIC project’s progress but also catalysed the development of new initiatives and deepened collaboration among partners.
By connecting regional innovation strategies with practical tools for business support, the meeting reinforced the project’s mission: to build a resilient, cross-regional innovation ecosystem for the packaging sector.
