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Attend the Clusters meet Regions Slovenia, 10. - 11. September 2025

Novinka

The European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP), on behalf of the European Commission, in collaboration with the Regional Development Agency ROD Ajdovščina, is pleased to organise the Clusters Meet Regions event in Ajdovščina, Slovenia, on 10 and 11 September 2025. The event, titled "AGORADA+ discusses the Knowledge Park as a catalyst for green and digital transition in the North Adriatic region", will take place in the heart of the Goriška region, adjacent to the twin cities of Nova Gorica and Gorizia, the joint European Capital of Culture in 2025.


AGORADA+ discusses the Knowledge Park as a catalyst for the green and digital transition in the North Adriatic region

 

For the fourth consecutive year, AGORADA+, one of EURADA’s main annual events, is organised in cooperation in the context of Clusters Meet Regions, bringing Regional Development Agencies and clusters on stage for a meaningful discussion on regional strategic autonomy and industrial transformation.

 

Ajdovščina, located in western Slovenia near the Italian border, is home to the Knowledge Park – a vibrant innovation ecosystem integrating industrial, academic, and policy actors. With strong cluster activity in green technology, sustainable agriculture, and advanced manufacturing, the region offers a compelling backdrop for discussing how place-based innovation can support Europe’s twin transition.



This Clusters Meet Regions edition will bring together regional and international actors to explore:

  • The strategic role of Knowledge Parks in regional development, innovation, and resilience.
  • Green and digital transition in the North Adriatic, including the development of the North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley and climate-smart agri-food systems.
  • Cross-border innovation collaboration between Slovenia and neighbouring regions in Italy and the Western Balkans.
  • The role of regional development agencies and clusters in building strategic autonomy.

 

The event will also feature a cross-border cultural showcase and networking evening in the European Capital of Culture 2025, offering participants a unique opportunity to discover the vibrant GO! 2025 program, connect with local culture, and enjoy authentic regional gastronomy in a special setting. Finally, participants will have the chance to attend site visits in enterprises pioneering aviation, smart manufacturing and future-ready agri-food.


🗓️ Agenda

📋 Participants' Booklet
 

Target Groups

  • Cluster managers and regional development agencies. 
  • National and local public authorities. 
  • SMEs and entrepreneurs. 
  • Academic institutions and R&D centres.
  • EU institutions and representatives from Interreg, Horizon, and IPA programmes.

Expected Outcomes

  • Strengthened collaboration between clusters and RDAs across borders. 
  • Practical insights into how Knowledge Parks can enable green and digital innovation. 
  • Promotion of the role of clusters in achieving EU strategic autonomy and supporting SMEs. 
  • New project ideas, especially in relation to Interreg, IPA, and Horizon Europe.