CODIL meeting in Cantabria, Spain

Our recent project meeting and thematic workshop in Cantabria, Spain, was a tremendous success! From 5-7 November 2024, our team delved into “The Role of Social Innovation in Regional Innovation Ecosystems,” gaining valuable insights into the strategies that drive Cantabria’s innovation and economic growth.

During the event, we had the privilege of learning about local social innovation experiences, including "Super de los Pastores," a chain of local supermarkets fostering community support; AMICA, an association dedicated to addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities to set a benchmark in social innovation; and Fundación ONCE, focused on social integration, training, and employment programs for people with disabilities. Our visits also included AMPROS, a foundation committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families, the innovative Xtela Tower with its resident start-up, and the Institute of Environmental Hydraulics at the University of Cantabria, IHCantabria, which unites the University of Cantabria and the Cantabria Government to advance research in environmental hydraulics.

We also kicked off a staff exchange program, allowing representatives and stakeholders to experience Cantabria’s innovation ecosystem first-hand. This exchange will help deepen collaboration and bolster our shared goal of strengthening regional innovation capacities across Europe.

Stay tuned as we continue implementing these learnings and sharing best practices across our regions!