FBI4EU SC meeting in Rzeszow, Poland

The 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project is set to take place in Rzeszów, Poland, from November 25 to 27, 2024. This event brings together partners from across Europe to collaborate on promoting innovation and competitiveness in the forest-based industries. Hosted by the Rzeszów Regional Development Agency (RRDA), the meeting aims to provide a platform for knowledge exchange, strategic planning, and networking, essential for the success of this ambitious initiative.

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Dinner

On November 25, participants from various European countries will arrive in Rzeszów, marking the start of the meeting. In the evening, a welcome dinner will be held at the Konfitura Restaurant, located in the heart of the city. This informal gathering will allow attendees to connect and set the tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Discussions and Workshops

The second day begins with registration at the Metropolitan Hotel, the venue for the morning sessions. The opening session will feature a welcome speech by representatives from RRDA and the project’s Lead Partner, outlining the objectives and importance of this meeting.

Key topics on the agenda include:

• First-Semester Summary: A review of project management activities, financial updates, and communication strategies will be presented. This session will ensure all partners are aligned and informed about the project’s progress and the plans for the next semester.
• GP Selection and SWOT Analysis: Partners will discuss the methodology for Good Practice selection surveys and interviews, followed by an interactive session on the SWOT analysis results. These discussions aim to strengthen the project’s approach to identifying and leveraging best practices across the forest-based industries.

After a networking lunch, the focus will shift to:

• Policy Workshop: A workshop titled “Role of Policy Instruments in Promoting Funds and Unlocking Public and Private Investments to Enhance the Competitiveness of Forest-based Industry SMEs” will be conducted. This session, moderated by RRDA, will explore strategies for fostering financial and legal incentives, improving public-private partnerships, and unlocking investment opportunities for SMEs in the sector.

The day concludes with a guided tour and a socializing dinner at Konfitura Restaurant, providing an excellent opportunity for participants to relax and build stronger connections.

Day 3: Study Visits and Local Insights

The final day starts with a registration session at the RRDA headquarters. Attendees will hear from industry leaders and experts on two key topics:

• Onliwood – Timber Sales Portal: Zbigniew Karaszewski, CEO, will present an innovative platform revolutionizing timber sales.
• Forest Chambers Proposal: Stefan Traczyk, CEO, will discuss a proposed law aimed at establishing Forest Chambers to support foresters and forest owners.

Following these insightful presentations, participants will embark on two study visits:

1. REMET: A visit to this facility will highlight innovative practices in wood processing and sustainable production.
2. DREW-BIK: This visit will showcase advanced technologies and operations in furniture manufacturing.

The event concludes in the historic town of Sandomierz, where participants will enjoy a formal dinner at Bistro Podwale, followed by free time to explore the picturesque main square. The meeting officially ends with transportation back to Rzeszów.

The Significance of the Meeting

The FBI4EU project focuses on fostering collaboration and innovation in the forest-based industries, a vital sector for economic growth and environmental sustainability. This meeting plays a critical role in aligning partners' efforts, sharing insights, and setting a clear roadmap for future activities.

By combining strategic discussions, practical workshops, and hands-on study visits, the event ensures that participants leave with actionable knowledge and stronger partnerships. Moreover, the focus on policy instruments, public-private investments, and Good Practices highlights the project’s commitment to addressing key challenges faced by SMEs in the industry.

Looking Ahead

As the FBI4EU project progresses, the outcomes of this meeting will be instrumental in shaping its direction. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the project aims to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the forest-based industries across Europe.

The 2nd International Partnership Meeting exemplifies the power of cross-border collaboration in addressing shared challenges and driving progress. With its blend of strategic planning, knowledge exchange, and cultural experiences, the event is set to be a milestone in the journey of the FBI4EU project.