3rd DeepTechValleys Exchange of Experience event, Sweden

The 3rd DeepTechValleys Exchange of Experience (EoE) event in Umeå, Sweden, alongside Vaasa Energy Week in Finland, brought together international innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders, highlighting a vibrant exchange of knowledge and strategies dedicated to fostering Europe's sustainable and innovative future.

Hosted by Region Västerbotten in Umeå, Sweden the DeepTechValleys event featured compelling discussions on deep-tech ecosystems. Prominent speakers such as Rickard Carstedt, Åsa Ågren Wikström, and Thomas Hartman emphasized the critical role of regional initiatives in nurturing innovation. Experts from Sweden’s Innovation Agency, Vinnova, and the European Innovation Council showcased actionable insights and strategic programs designed to stimulate growth in the deep-tech sector.

Participants had the opportunity to engage directly with innovative regional frameworks through site visits to Umeå Science Park and Umeå Arts Campus. These locations exemplified best practices in deep-tech support systems, including groundbreaking research in biotechnology, exemplified by Professor Stefan Jansson’s insights into CRISPR-Cas technology applications for agriculture and forestry, and dynamic discussions on design and gender equality's role in technological advancement.

Simultaneously, Vaasa Energy Week, a cornerstone event in Finland’s vibrant energy sector, highlighted Europe's renewable energy ambitions. With sessions focusing on sustainable energy solutions and innovation pitching, including our participation in the SPIN4EIC pitching session, Vaasa became a hub for dialogue on future-oriented energy policies, sustainable practices, and collaborative international projects. The synergy between deeptech innovation and renewable energy strategies underscored the importance of cross-sector cooperation to tackle global sustainability challenges.

From these events, key takeaways included:

• Enhanced understanding of innovative support structures essential for deeptech ecosystem growth.

• Actionable insights on practical policy improvements at both regional and EU levels.

• Strengthened networks and collaboration opportunities among diverse stakeholders, vital for sustainable innovation.

Both events affirmed Europe's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regional development, showcasing successful practices and pioneering initiatives. As DeepTechValleys continues its journey, the exchange of experiences between Greece, Lithuania, Sweden, Romania, Austria, Slovakia, Portugal, Spain and France, and other European regions will remain crucial for advancing sustainable innovation ecosystems across Europe.

Discover more about these initiatives at: https://www.interregeurope.eu/deeptechvalleys 

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