Networking in Vienna to Improve Inclusion in Innovation
International Meeting in Vienna: DEBUTING Promotes Gender Equality and Inclusion
As part of DEBUTING project, innovative approaches to promoting gender equality and inclusion are to be developed and implemented. On 26 and 27 February, 2025, an international project meeting with 35 participants took place at the Palais Niederösterreich in Vienna. The meeting was held under the theme "Strategically Moving Forward" and provided a platform for the exchange of good practices and networking among professionals from across Europe.
The two-day project meeting was opened by Carmen Jeitler-Cincelli, representing Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner, who stated: "Promoting gender equality and inclusion is an important issue that concerns all of us. Solutions to the major challenges in the economy can be more successfully developed together with others. That is why it is important to learn from other European regions, gather knowledge, and put in the effort."
Following this, an expert from Lower Austria, Sabine Hilbert, set the stage for discussions on topics such as "Women in Financial Education Strategy" (Fiona Springer, FMA), "Gender Gap 4.0" (Marion Mansberger, FH Wiener Neustadt), and "What's in it for Men?!" (Dorit Haslehner-Kadlicz, founder of Men’s and Women’s Counseling Centers in Lower Austria).
A highlight of the first day was the tailored Study Tour through the Vienna Museum from a woman's perspective, led by Petra Unger, award-winning gender researcher, cultural mediator, and author.
Focus Groups & Keynote
On the second day of the project meeting, focus groups on "Smart Specialisation & Inclusivity" (Dominique Foray, Lotta Braunerhielm, Manuel Almberg Missner) and "Gender Value Creation" provided the framework for discussions on the current situation.
In the keynote speech by Robert Baker, CEO of Potentia Talent Consulting, on "The Market of Diversity & Inclusion – Male Allyship," particular attention was paid to the role of men as allies in promoting diversity and inclusion.
The meeting concluded with a focus group by Marie-Theres Claes from the Institute for Gender and Diversity at WU Vienna on the topic of "Gender Value Creation."
Ecoplus as Host
The project meeting was hosted by the Lower Austrian economic agency, ecoplus. "The ecoplus department for companies and technology has recognized the importance of equality approaches for the economy and has set itself the goal of raising awareness about it. To create added value for regional businesses and science, knowledge should be built and exchanged," said ecoplus managing director Claus Zeppelzauer.
The DEBUTING project continues to pave the way for sustainable gender-inclusive innovation, benefiting businesses, academia, and regional economies. Next meeting in Cluj-Napoca, Romania in July!