1st Stakeholders Meeting in Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship
What Happened?
On September 23rd, the first meeting of stakeholders from the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivedeship took place online as part of the international FISSH project (Food Industry SMEs’ Sustainability Support and Help), carried out under the Interreg Europe Programme. The online format allowed a wide range of stakeholders who expressed interest in the project to participate in the meeting. This was especially important, as representatives from key institutions supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as entrepreneurs from the agri-food sector, were in attendance.
Who Was There?
The meeting brought together representatives from key institutions in the region that support the development of SMEs. Among them were representatives from:
- Nicolaus Copernicus University of Toruń
- The Toruń Regional Development Agency
- Regional Center for Sustainable Development
- Agricultural Advisory Centre of Kujawsko-Pomorskie
- National Support Centre for Agriculture
- Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology
- Agency for Restructuring and Modernization of Agriculture
- Kujawsko-Pomorskie Science and Technology Center of Prof. Jan Czochralski
Additionally, SMEs took part in the discussion, allowing for a broad exchange of opinions and needs.
FISSH Project Presentation
One of the key points of the meeting was the presentation of the FISSH project, which aims to implement policies in partner regions through knowledge exchange and best practices sharing. This cooperation helps build resilience and supply chain security, which is crucial in the face of global challenges and local community needs.
The project primarily focuses on supporting SMEs in the food sector as they transition towards sustainable development.
Role of the Stakeholders
A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to the role of stakeholders in the project’s implementation. Their involvement is crucial for tailoring regional policies to the actual needs of companies. Participants unanimously emphasized that the exchange of knowledge and experiences between various institutions and businesses in the region is key to effectively supporting the development of SMEs in the food industry. Common efforts will also help identify best practices that can be applied at the regional level.
Next Steps
As part of the FISSH project, more meetings are planned, with the next one scheduled for the second semester of the project. This will be an excellent opportunity to exchange information about best practices from the kujawsko-pomorskie region as well as from partners in other parts of Europe. These meetings aim not only to share knowledge but also to strengthen cooperation and develop joint initiatives that will foster a sustainable economy in the region.
Why Does It Matter?
This meeting was a step towards building a sustainable and innovative environment supporting SMEs in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie region’s food sector. The involvement of such a broad group of stakeholders gives the region a chance to strengthen its economic potential and align local activities with European standards for sustainable development. Collaboration between scientific institutions, authorities, support organizations, and businesses is the foundation for the success of initiatives like the FISSH project.
Summary
The first meeting as part of the FISSH project demonstrated the Kujawsko-Pomorskie region’s strong potential for sustainable development. Thanks to active cooperation and experience-sharing, both regionally and internationally, the region could become a model for supporting SMEs and promoting innovative and sustainable solutions in the economy.