SBRA events

Forward Momentum: 
Shaping the Future of EU Cannabis Policy

Bridging Public and Private Sectors in Agriculture, Pharmacy, Health, Environment, Research and Industry

15 May 2025   I   09:45 - 16:30
University Foundation Room Félicien Cattier), Rue d'Egmont 11, 1000 Bruxelles

The European continent is the most exciting place on the planet right now for cannabis policy and industry. Several European Union member nations already permit medical cannabis and a growing list of countries have also modernized their cannabis policies to allow adult-use cannabis commerce and personal cannabis freedoms. Europe’s cannabis landscape remains a patchwork of laws, rules, and regulations. The event is dedicated to discussing current EU and nation-level cannabis policies and exploring ways that the continent’s approach to cannabis regulation can be harmonized.

The conference will address a range of critical topics essential for the advancement of the cannabis industry, with a particular focus on European Union policies and regulations. 

The programme includes:

• Modernizing EU Cannabis Policies: Deliberations on the legal challenges and inconsistencies within the EU market, addressing international agreements and domestic regulations impacting the cannabis sector;

• Developments in German Cannabis Policy: An in-depth analysis of Germany's recent adult-use legalization law, its implications, and the potential economic opportunities it presents;

• Enhancing Public-Private Sector Collaboration: Strategies to foster effective collaboration between public and private entities across health, agriculture, industry, and sustainability to maximize societal benefits;

• Opportunities in Bio-Tech and Pharmaceuticals: Exploration of the growing demand for cannabinoid-based therapeutics and the emerging opportunities in these fields;

• Cannabis and Renewable Energy: Examination of the role of cannabis, particularly hemp, in renewable energy and sustainability initiatives;

• Global Cannabis Reform: Comparative analysis of the EU, U.S., and Canadian approaches to cannabis reform, highlighting employment, business, and economic growth prospects.

For further information, including the programme and registration, send an email to Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec.

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Advancements in Cancer Treatment

21 November 2024  I 12:30 – 17:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the European Union, 
Rue Joseph II 14, 1000 Brussels

The event will explore the latest breakthroughs and innovations in the fight against cancer. As research progresses at an unprecedented pace, new therapies and technologies are transforming patient care, improving survival rates, and offering hope for a future where cancer can be managed more effectively or even cured. The event’s presentations will highlight cutting-edge treatments, from proton, gene and cellular therapies to precision medicine, and the collaborative efforts – at the European and national levels– driving these exciting developments forward.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency.

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Hydrogen Pilot Summit

18 November 2024   I   09:30 - 13:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the European Union, Rue Joseph II 14, 1000 Brussels

The Vanguard Initiative is a unique alliance of the most advanced industrial regions in Europe, focused on stimulating industrial innovation and building European value-chains based on complementarities in regional smart specialisation strategies. The core activity of the Vanguard Initiative is the implementation of its Pilot Projects, which have been developed through the active participation of clusters, science parks, research institutes and universities in the member regions.  

The Vanguard Initiative’s Hydrogen Pilot will for the very first time organise an event dedicated to presenting its activities to the wider Brussels community during the European Hydrogen Week. 

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

The event is co-financed by SPIRIT Slovenia and Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport. 

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New opportunities at home and in South-East Europe

10 October 2024 – 17:00 
Chamber of Commerce, Hall A (and online), Dimičeva ulica 13
1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Progress needs projects. Projects need funding. And funding comes through opportunities. Learn of the (financing) opportunities at our event: “New opportunities at home and in South-East Europe” 

Organized by the Slovene Dutch Business Platform, co-organized with the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) from Brussels, and in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia - Chamber of Agricultural and Food Enterprises, the event will cover upcoming EU and Slovene development funding opportunities in order to further enhance the growth-oriented Slovene economy. 

The event will be held in the Slovenian language!

For further information, including the programme and registration go here.

Take a look at the recording of the event here.

The event is co-financed by SPIRIT Slovenia and Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport. 

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Vanguard Initiative Regions Innovating for a Just Transition to Hydrogen Economy

9 October 2024   I   14:00 - 15:30
Scotland House Brussels, Rdpt Robert Schuman 6, 1040 Bruxelles

Within the framework of the European Week of Regions and Cities, the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) in cooperation with several regions from the Vanguard Initiative (VI), is organising a workshop entitled Vanguard Initiative Regions Innovating for a Just Transition to Hydrogen Economy on 9 October 2024 from 14:00 - 15:30 at the Scotland House Brussels (Rdpt Robert Schuman 6, 1040 Bruxelles).

The VI regions will highlight the significance of international collaboration and bridging the skills gap in the hydrogen industry. This is crucial for achieving Europe's hydrogen ambitions while fostering social cohesion.

Regional authorities will showcase their local efforts in building healthy environments for their communities and future generations, while stimulating a discussion on the positive impact that the development of the hydrogen industry could have on the future.

Take a look at the programme here.

To register to the workshop, go here.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency.

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Sustainable Transportation in the EU: 
Addressing Global Issues at the Local Level

8th of October 2024  I  14.30 – 16.00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the European Union, Rue Joseph II 12 – 16, 1000 Brussels

As part of the European Week of Regions and Cities, the Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) and the Municipality of Koper cordially invite you to a workshop on the latest and most innovative solutions in the field of sustainable transport, which will take place on 8 October 2024 from 14.30 to 16.00 in Brussels.

Prominent officials and experts from Slovenia, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland and Portugal will present the role of efficient, modern and environmentally friendly transport mechanisms in bridging the gap between different European regions and local communities. Indeed, empowering regions is an essential element on the road to an even more united, secure and prosperous Europe, given the need for a sensible, context-specific green transition.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

Presentations:

• Miran Gajšek - Introductory presentation

• Michael Andergassen - Tram Ferrytale - Italy

• Janez Starman - Koper's Plan for a Comprehensive Cycling - Koper

• Nermina Kundić - Sustainable Transport Solutions - Nijmegen Region

• Teresa Jorge - The First BRT - Centro Portugal

• Ewa Raczyńska-Buława - Leading Poland's Green Rail Revolution - Lodzkie Region

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency.

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Strengthening skills through regional initiatives - developing local talents for the future

8 October 2024   I   14:00 - 15:30
Northern Ireland Executive Office Brussels, Chaussée d’Etterbeek 180, Brussels

Within the framework of the European Week of Regions and Cities, the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), in cooperation with North-East Romania Regional Development Agency and several other European regions, is organising a workshop entitled Strengthening skills through regional initiatives - developing local talents for the future on 8 October 2024 from 14:00 - 15:30 at the Northern Ireland Executive Office Brussels (Chaussée d’Etterbeek 180, Brussels).

A diverse regional partnership will rally to share practices, exchange ideas, and collect feedback on talent growth and future skills. Speakers, from elected officials to academics will present custom local talent solutions.

Sessions will explore local and interregional practices to guide and support youth, including the innovative use of technology like AI and hydrogen. Audience interaction will focus on improving policy efficiency. Additionally, video presentations will showcase regional talent retention.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

The event is co-financed by SPIRIT Slovenia and Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport.

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Societal readiness and social innovation online events

25 September & 26 September 2024 
Webinar Series

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), Eötvös Loránd University, Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Corvinus University of Budapest and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary are pleased to invite you to a series of virtual events focusing on social aspects of research and innovation.

The first event will concentrate on Societal Readiness (SR) model and is scheduled for 25 September at 14.00 (Wednesday). Since 2014, the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale has been incorporated into the EU Horizon 2020 Work Programmes and widely adopted in many European countries and regions in the context of Research, Development, and Innovation investments supported by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund). The Societal Readiness approach aims, when integrated into R&I processes, to improve the consideration of different societal needs and concerns and to respond to them, thereby increasing the potential for societal uptake. The Commission is proposing to introduce the Societal Readiness (SR) model for Cluster 5 of the Horizon Europe Programme in its upcoming 2025 Work Programme. During the first virtual event, we will explore this Societal Readiness (SR) model proposed by the Commission.

The second event will delve into the social economy, specifically focusing on social innovation and is scheduled for 26 September at 14.00 (Thursday). Social innovations are new ideas that meet social needs, create social relationships and form new collaborations. These innovations can manifest as products, services or models addressing unmet needs more effectively. The goal of this event is to comprehend the phenomenon and added value of social innovation and how the Commission is promoting the market uptake of these innovation. During this event, you will have the opportunity to hear from the Commission and gain insights from the speakers coming from the organising Member States regarding their work in the field of social economy and social innovation.

Take a look at both of the programmes here.

To register for the events, go here.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency.

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European Defence Fund 
Info Day 2024

23 May 2024 I  09:00 – 13:00

Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia, 
Vojkova cesta 55a, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) alongside the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia is organizing an Info Day on the topic of the European Defence Fund (EDF) in Ljubljana, Slovenia at the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia, on 23 May 2024 at 09:00 to 13:00. Anyone that is in any way interested or already involved in this type of defence/security activities is cordially invited to attend and obtain first-hand information on the upcoming calls and tenders.

While the event is intended for the Slovenian industry and SMEs, in case you're interested in attending the event, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec. 

The conference programme is available here.

The event is co-financed by SPIRIT Slovenia and Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport.

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Labour migration – Latest developments and future trends

21 May 2024 I 10:00 – 11:30
at the Chamber of Craft and Small Business of Slovenia Ljubljana Vič, 
Tržaška cesta 207, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA), the SLO-CRO Business Club from Zagreb and the Slovenian Business Club from Belgrade are organising an event focusing on the issue of labour migration on 21 May 2024 at 10:00. All three countries (Slovenia, Serbia and Croatia) are facing labour shortages and challenges regarding (im)migration. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the challenges faced by recruitment agencies and entrepreneurs from all three countries and how they can work together to find sustainable solutions. Representatives of the Association of Employers of Slovenia (ZDS), the Employment Service of Slovenia (ZRSZ) and various companies will partake in the discussion foreseen at the end of the program.

In addition, a wider European perspective will also be covered. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Draško Veselinovič will present the position of the European Union's position(s) on labour migration, employers' difficulties and solutions being developed by the EU.

While the event is intended for the Slovenian participants, in case you're interested in attending the event, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec.

The event is co-financed by SPIRIT Slovenia and Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport.

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How much does it COST 
to bring researchers and innovators together?

19 April 2024  I  10:00 – 12:00
Webinar  I  Microsoft Teams

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University, Corvinus University of Budapest and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to the virtual webinar on how much does it COST to bring researchers and innovators together which take place on Friday, 19 April at 10:00.

The European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) is a funding organization, which finances research networks called COST Actions, fostering collaboration among scientists across Europe and beyond, driving research advancements and innovation. Researchers can propose networks based on their interests via the COST Open Call, spanning any science field. Actions are interdisciplinary, open, and expandable, lasting four years and involving various stakeholders such as the private sector, policymakers as well as civil society.

The primary objective of this webinar is to present COST and its actions, highlighting the experience of Lithuania, Poland, Slovenia, and Hungary in engaging with it. Through practical examples, we will explore how COST facilitates collaboration to stimulate progress in research and foster innovation.

Take a look at the programme here. 

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency.

To register, go here.

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Biodiversity and Marine Protection in EUSAIR:
A Contribution to EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030

14 March 2024  I  09:00 – 13:00
University Foundation, Meeting Room A
Rue d'Egmont 11, 1000 Brussels

The event will focus on biodiversity and marine protection set within the expansive scope of the European Union Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR). Additionally, the event will present a tentative contribution aimed at implementing the ambitious EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030. Join us as we navigate through this scenario, intricately aligned with the synergies of the United Nations Environment Programme/Coordinating Unit for the Mediterranean Action Plan (UNEP/MAP), to collectively shape a sustainable future for our precious ecosystems.

Presentations leading experts, as well as the European Commission, promise to make this event a comprehensive and insightful gathering that delves into the latest advancements and critical discussions, offering profound insights and paving the way for a future of innovation and collaboration.

For further information, including the detailed programme and registration, go here.

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Strengthening hydrogen ecosystems through cross-regional collaboration and innovation

1 March 2024  I  11:30 - 15:30
Rimini Exhibition Centre
Via Emilia 155, Rimini

As part of the European Vanguard Initiative network, the Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) together with Pilots Hydrogen and ADMA Energy are pleased to invite you to participate in the event "H2 Pitching and Matchmaking" during the KEY-Expo 2024 that will be held in Rimini, Italy from the 28th of February to the 1st of March 2024.

The event, focused on the presentation of innovative projects in the hydrogen sector and networking with industry leaders, will be hosted on the 1st of March 2024. Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their innovative hydrogen projects and establish meaningful connections with other companies and key stakeholders from different EU regions. The event will provide a platform for companies to showcase their proposals, discuss their activities and partners, present their project costs and funding needs, and explain why publicly supported investment is necessary. Companies physically attending the event in Rimini may be eligible for a travel voucher of 150-200 euros depending on availability.

The deadline for confirming participation is the 9th of February.

If you would like to present your project during the event, please register for KEY-Expo 2024 and confirm your pitch by sending us an e-mail to bostjan.sinkovec@sbra.be by completing this template.

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Research security and technologies
with dual-use potential in the EU

29 February & 4 March 2024  I  Online

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, , Eötvös Loránd University, Corvinus University of Budapest and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to two part webinar series on Research security and technologies with dual-use potential in the EU, which take place on Thursday 29 February at 10:00 and on Monday 4 March at 14:00.

Recently, the European Commission introduced two initiatives aimed at fortifying the EU's research security and addressing the challenges posed by dual-use technologies at a time of geopolitical tensions and transformative technological shifts.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

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Info Day on the EU Innovation Fund in Slovenia

25 January 2024  I  08:45 – 13:15
Lila Hall at the University of Ljubljana, School of Economics and Business,
Kardeljeva ploščad 17, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) in cooperation with the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy, the Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport, the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) and the University of Ljubljana, School of Economics and Business are organising an Slovenian Innovation Fund Info Day on the 25 January 2024.

The purpose of the upcoming event is to provide information about the EU Innovation Fund program, its participation process, and the latest changes and novelties. Additionally, the event will showcase the successful winners of the EU Innovation Fund's projects EAVORLOOP and KOdeCO Net Zero. To conclude the event, a round table discussion will be held with prominent representatives from various Slovenian scientific research institutions and economies to discuss the current topics related to this program.

While the event is intended for the Slovenian industry and SMEs, in case you're interested in attending the event, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec.

The conference programme is available here.

Instructions for participants arriving by train, bus or car are availble here.

Warmly welcome to attend this important event!

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Hydrogen Bank: Pilot Auction

Thursday, 17 December 2023   I   14:00-15:00   I   Zoom

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), the NCBR Office in Brussels, Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development and Innovation Office in Hungary cordially invite you to the online event “Hydrogen Bank: Pilot auction” which takes place on Thursday, 14 December at 14.00 CET.

The auction, funded by the Innovation Fund under the umbrella of the EU Hydrogen Bank, was opened on 23 November 2023. It awards initially up to €800 million to renewable hydrogen producers in the European Economic Area (EEA). The support will take the form of a fixed premium in €/kg of renewable hydrogen produced over up to 10 years of operation, therefore targeting the gap between the production costs and the demand’s willingness to pay.

Clean hydrogen will play a key role in the climate-neutral economy of the future, and Europe in the framework of its hydrogen-related initiatives must design a hydrogen market, where both supply and demand are fully mature and functional – from that perspective the auction is indisputably a great step forward. 

The aim of the event is to highlight the mechanism of the auction, with an emphasis on its economic conditioning. It shall also outline the main characteristics of the Hydrogen Bank including its four pillars of the proposed activities.

Please take a look at the programme here.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

Register before Wednesday, 13 December 2023 here.

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Research & Innovation
Transforming European Healthcare

16 November 2023  I  09:00 – 16:30
Permanent Representation of Slovenia to the EU
Boulevard du Régent 45-46, 1000 Brussels

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), in cooperation with Istanbul IT Valley, the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels, Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to Research & Innovation Transforming European Healthcare taking place in Brussels, Belgium.

The objectives of the conference are to:

• learn about current EU policies and programmes in healthcare research;
• gain knowledge of different research partnerships, associations, and other organisations (i.e., Swiss funding in research & innovation);
• promote research ideas, activities and achievements to the broader research & innovation audience in Brussels (EU representation offices of different national and regional research, innovation and business organisations);
• provide feedback to the European Commission and other speakers at the event.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

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XYLO-WORLDS:
Industry, economy and medicine-based on natural resources

24 October 2023  I  13:30 - 19:00
Rue Belliard 40, 1040 Brussels

The conference is organised in collaboration with the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), East Poland House in Brussels, the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR Office in Brussels), the Marshal's Office of the Podlaskie Voivodeship and the XYLOPOLIS Centre of Art and Science in partnership with Latvian Office for Innovation & Technology in Brussels about the trends and prospects for the use of wood in the world.

• Join discussion panel dedicated to wood as a raw material of the future in modern construction and other engineering fields;
• Learn about examples from around the world with the participation of representatives of the construction industry and scientists in the field of architecture, construction or materials science;
• Know the vision and principles of modern forest management, which cares for the preservation of natural forest reservoirs and natural monuments, while shaping the business potential of timber trade;
• Explore the results of the research work of scientists who are looking for bioactive substances in wood fungi that could be the basis for the development of new medicines  for cancer, antibiotics or civilisation-related diseases;
• See the potential of raw material of natural origin as well as past healing methods in the treatment of humans and animals;
• Discuss the impact of communing with nature on the mental health of modern man;
• Discover research response to global challenges.

Take a look at the programme here.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

If you would like to register to the conference, please send an email directly to Mr. Boštjan Šinkovec via bostjan.sinkovec@sbra.be

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Vanguard Initiative regions' pilot activities leading by example
in the post-industrial transition

House of the Dutch Provinces, Rue de Treves 59, 1040 Brussels
Thursday 12th October 2023, 08:30 - 10:30

For 10 years, Vanguard Initiative members have been leading by example on fostering the post-industrial transition with strong Regional Smart Specialisation Strategies and innovative cooperations across Europe. 8 regions will demonstrate the benefits of working in Vanguard Initiative with testimonials from 4 of its pilots. Together they take up the challenges of the smart and green transitions, being the center of the new Innovation Valleys and open for new connections to innovative ecosystems.

The programme is available here.

For further information, including registration, go here.

The workshop is sponsored by SPIRIT.

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Vanguard Initiative regions leading by example
in the local energy shift

Vanguard Initiative offices, Square de Meeus 1, 1000 Brussels
Wednesday 11th October 2023, 11:30 - 13:30

The Vanguard Initiative contributes to the clean energy transition following a place-based approach based on smart specialisation strategies and the VI Pilots. While the VI pilots provide a line to foster innovation valleys by drawing on the existing strengths of regional ecosystems, the event will showcase decarbonisation activities in the VI pilots and VI regions focusing on Hydrogen, Bioeconomy offshore wind Energy to provide other regions with the opportunity to connect for future endeavours.

The programme is available here.

For further information, including registration, go here.

The workshop is sponsored by SPIRIT.

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STEP towards strengthening the
strategic technologies for Europe

20 September 2023  I  13:30 - 15:00  I  Online

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels, Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to the virtual event “STEP towards strengthening the strategic technologies for Europe” which will take place on Wednesday 20 September at 13.30 (CEST).

In June 2023, the EU Commission proposed the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) to support European leadership on critical technologies. The aim of this instrument is to support the uptake and scaling up of the development and manufacturing of critical emerging technologies relevant to the green and digital transitions in the EU and to the strategic sovereignty of the Union. Those are deep and digital technologies, clean technologies and biotechnologies. It should also support investments aimed at reinforcing their value chains, thereby reducing the EU’s strategic dependencies, strengthening European sovereignty and economic security, and addressing labor and skills shortages in those strategic sectors.

The aim of this virtual event is to provide the information about STEP, enabling a clearer comprehension of its objectives, operations, the interplay between STEP and other EU initiatives, the primary areas of focus that STEP will underpin, and how companies, researchers or other stakeholders can reap benefit from their engagement with STEP.

The deadline for registration is Monday, 18 September 2023.

To register, go here.

Agenda

13:30-13:40 Welcome by the Organisers
13:40-14:10 Keynote presentation on Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), Angelo WILLE, Deputy Head of Unit, DG RTD, European Commission
14:10-14:40 Discussion and Q&A session
14:40-14:45 Closing session

The online event is sponsored by SPIRIT.

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FUNDING EU DEFENCE CAPABILITIES

14 September 2023  I  09:00 - 13:00
Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana
Ljubljana, Slovenia

Until a few years ago, Slovenia and its various potential stakeholders and companies were not very active in EU projects, not at all successful, nor internationally recognizable. Thanks largely in part of the conferences - amongst other activities - organised by the Slovenian Ministry of Defence in cooperation with the European Commission and the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), this has seen a major turnaround. In 2021, Slovenian companies involved in European Defence Fund (EDF) calls were the most successful of all EU countries.

Currently, there is a new EDF call underway, therefore our aim is to once again present the various calls, including the brand new EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS). The novelty of our conference will also be a round table discussion which, in addition to more technical explanations and guidance regarding EDF, will also give the participants a wider picture of the defence and security situation in Europe.

While the event is intended for the Slovenian industry and SMEs, in case you're interested in attending the event, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec.

The conference programme is available here.

The online event is sponsored by SPIRIT.

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SBRA coorganises IGLO event on the topic of Regional Innovation Valleys and the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument

29 June 2023 I Brussels & Online

SBRA coorganized a hybrid IGLO (informal association of Brussels-based non-profit R&D Liaison Offices) workshop within the framework of the IGLO working group for regional policy to present Regional Innovation Valleys and the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument, including the EU Innovation Agenda.

Presentations from the event are available below:

• Michael Berz - EISMEA
• Panagiotis Sevdalis - EC, DG RESEARCH & INNOVATION

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3DP Business Innovators Meeting' (3DP BIM)

21 June 2023  I  Online

On the 21st of June 2023, the VI 3DP Pilot will hold its second ‘3DP Business Innovators Meeting’ (3DP BIM), following a successful first edition in January 2023 (more than 18 pitches delivered, including by more than 14 SMEs leaders; more than 90 participants; the generation of many connections in our cross borders’ ecosystem, etc.).

During the online meeting, any (incl. those not having participated in any 3DP Pilot activities in the past!) ‘Innovators’ (i.e., in particular SMEs (tech providers or end-users) but also larger companies, Facility/Technology Centres, Universities, Clusters) from VI member regions will have the opportunity to briefly pitch/present:

• The expertise and the innovative solutions they developed/are developing in strategic areas (TRLs targeted: TRL6 and beyond).

and (if relevant)

• complementary services/equipment/expertise they need in order to achieve (some of) their strategic ambitions.

Doing so, organisations can e.g., reach a wider range of partners and/or users/customers, promote/discuss their innovative solutions in a cross-borders setting, initiate the design of cross regional demonstration projects to be then possibly implemented, etc.

Below you will find information about how SMEs / Facility Centres / Technology Centres / Universities / Large companies can secure a pitching slot during the sessions, and therefore promote expertise/services/solutions across borders (the VI 3DP Pilot is composed of 30 members regions):

1. While the detailed agenda will be specified in the coming weeks, please see (here) the strategic areas that will be at the core of the pitching sessions.
2. Any interests in promoting your innovative solutions/services (TRL 6 and beyond) associated to one of these areas? Please contact (asap and by the 2nd of June at the latest) jean-francois.romainville@ideaconsult.be and briefly indicate 1) the targeted session/strategic area (see here), 2) the scope of your presentation and, eventually, any time constraints you have on the 21st of June. You will then be put in contact the relevant lead expert(s) to prepare the session further.
3. On the 21.06 you will then be able to make (on Teams, online meeting) a short presentation (supported by a PPT) highlighting:

• The expertise/innovative solutions (TRL 6 and beyond) developed in your organisation (around 4 minutes).
• The impacts such solutions have / could have on companies (productivity, etc.) (around 2 minutes). 
• The complementary services/equipment/expertise you need to achieve some of your strategic ambitions (2 minutes, if applicable).

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Velenje on the Path to Climate Neutrality

8 June 2023  I  10:00 - 13:00
Permanent Representation of Slovenia to the EU
Boulevard du Régent 45-46, 1000 Brussels

Municipality of Velenje has won EU Green Leaf Award 2024, taking part in the EU Mission 100 Climate neutral and smart cities and faces transition from coal mining region to new green perspectives. We invite you to join us on the event where the mayor of Municipality of Velenje Mr. Peter Dermol will sign the letter of intent for EU Green Leaf 2024 with the representative of the European Commission Mr. Patrick Child, and the main projects will be presented.

The event will take place on 8th June at 10:00 at the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU in Brussels.

This event is valuable opportunity to meet one another in person, to connect and share knowledge for our journey to climate neutrality. The formal event will be followed by networking with Slovenian wine tasting.

To register for the event, make sure to register here.

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The NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, the Slovenian Business & Research Association, Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to the official Green Week event on

Circular economy for biodiversity:
Unlocking the green potential

5 June 2023  I  12:00 – 16:40
NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland
Rue Belliard 40, 1040 Brussels
(In-person, onsite event)

The event will focus on the research and innovation communities of Cyprus, Greece, Lithuania, Poland, Slovenia and Hungary, as well as other relevant European stakeholders in order to display their strengths and ideas for future consortia in Horizon Europe calls, with a particular focus on biodiversity and circular economy (Cluster 6).

Researchers, businesses and other organizations are invited to pitch their project ideas or activities, related to the Horizon Europe Cluster 6 calls. Please see the calls for proposals for the Cluster 6 on biodiversity and circular economy here.

You can either register as an attendee (you will have the opportunity to listen to the pitches) or as a pitch presenter (to present a 5-minute pitch of your ideas and activities). We encourage you to have only 1 pitch presentation per institution. As there is a limited number of pitch presentations, the organisers reserve the right to select presenters. Presenters will receive more detailed information about the expected structure and content of their pitches after their registration.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

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EU opportunities for the development of green technologies

1 June 2023  I  12:00  I Ljubljana, Slovenia 
Chamber of Commerce of Slovenia & Online

At the European level, the accelerated implementation of the Green Deal Industrial Plan for the Carbon Free Era continues. Two acts are currently being prepared: on 'net-zero' industries and on the supply of critical materials. There is also an intense discussion about the possible sources for the so-called Sovereignty Fund, which is intended to provide incentives for the development of European capacities for innovation and the production of clean technologies.

While the event will be held in Slovenian and is designed for Slovenian industry and SMEs, in case you’re interested to know about the outcome of the discussions and the results of the consultation, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec.

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THE RESEARCH NEEDS FOR A
FIRE SAFE SUSTAINABLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

23 May 2023  I  09:00 – 13:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the European Union
Boulevard du Régent 45-46, 1000 Brussels

There are challenges in achieving a sustainable built environment, where many new construction materials, systems and technologies are being incorporated to reach the sustainability goals set out at various socio-political levels. These ambitious goals bring new fire hazards and risks that are essential to address for sustainability to be truly accomplished. This meeting aims to introduce the emerging challenges and establish the funding required to ensure future sustainable and fire-safe built environments that contribute to local, regional and global sustainability goals across the entire EU.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

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The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) and
the National Council of the Republic of Slovenia

STRATEGIC CONSULTATION ON MODERN HEALTH POLICIES

on Friday, 12 May 2023, from 10:00 – 14:00
at the National Council of the Republic of Slovenia (Ljubljana, Šubičeva 4).

Healthcare reform is one of the most important changes that affects everyone. The COVID-19 pandemic has already revealed many weaknesses of our healthcare systems, including long waiting lists for many services and large numbers of people without a personal doctor. Additionally, prevention is still underdeveloped in Slovenia, especially compared to Western Europe (which translates to later treatment and higher costs). Health policies should always put the patient at the forefront, which is not always the case. This also applies to various scientific research discoveries in the field of healthcare (including harm reduction), which should be prioritized by health policies.

Finally, there is also the economic aspect and the search for an answer know how much public money, collected through health contributions from salaries, is actually available for the healthcare needs of the population, as well as whether the Slovenian healthcare system is financially sustainable and whether it could be improved with better organization of health centers, clinics, hospitals, and consequently healthcare services. There is also the announcement of a healthcare reform, of which very little is known.

The conference at the National Council of the Republic of Slovenia is aimed at finding answers to many pertinent questions of healthcare reform, with the aim of helping decision-makers find the best possible solutions.

Although the event is intended primarily for Slovenian participants, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec for further information.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

Conference conclusions are available here.

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Discovering Regional Innovation Valleys

Wednesday, 10 May 2023
Time: 09h30 CET/10h30 EST
Online

Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, the Slovenian Business & Research Association, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to the virtual event “Discovering regional innovation valleys” which will take place on Wednesday 10 May at 9.30 am (CEST).

EU aims to position itself at the forefront of the new wave of deep tech innovation and start-ups and the creation of regional innovation valleys (RIVs) is a one of the crucial factor to achieve this goal. Under the New Innovation Agenda, it is foreseen to establish and network regional deep tech innovation valleys. RIVs should help to link innovation actors across all Europe and address the existing innovation performance gap between the various regions in the EU. Europe has set the ambitious goal to identify up to 100 regions committed to enhance the coordination and direction of their research and innovation investment and policies, at regional level and to collaborate on inter-regional innovation projects including in deep tech innovation, linked to the key EU priorities.

The goal of this virtual event is to provide information about the RIVs and the call for expression of interest for RIVs and how regions can join this initiative.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

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The Technology park Ljubljana and the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) have the pleasure to invite you to the event of the Interreg Adrion project BLUEAIR

Fostering transregional S3-based cooperation:
Advancing the sustainable blue economy through macroregional innovation collaboration

taking place on Thursday, 20 April 2023
at the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the European Union
(Boulevard du Régent 45-46, 1000 Brussels).

The event will explore the potential of macroregional smart specialisation-based cooperation in advancing sustainable development in EU macro-regions and Euroregions. Utilizing the Interreg Adrion project BLUEAIR as a case study, the event aims to demonstrate the steps taken towards S3-based cooperation in the sustainable blue economy in the Adriatic and Ionian Region. The event will highlight the importance of promoting transregional collaboration between various innovation stakeholders towards a more coordinated approach for developing relevant priority areas and cross-border innovation. The event aims to inspire other EU macro-regions and Euroregions to embrace similar approaches in priority areas relevant to their respective regions.

The event will feature speakers from the European Commission, BLUEAIR partner organisations and ministries, discussing the ways of promoting macroregional innovation strategies and transregional S3-based cooperation.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

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The Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) &
the Slovenian Research Agency (ARRS)
cordially invite to

Co-creation of Horizon Europe:
From strategic planning to calls for proposal

taking place on 31 March 2023, from 09:00 to 12:30
in the City Museum of Ljubljana

The purpose of the event is to present the entire strategic programming process of Horizon Europe (including ERA Actions). The event could not be organised at a more oportune time, as the European Commission is in the final consultation phase regarding the preparation of the Working Programme 2025-2027. At the event, we will also briefly present how the Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) works with various European associations, networks, including the European institutions. The event will conclude with a round table high-level representatives from various Slovenian scientific research institutions disucssing Horizon Europe and its intricacies.

The event will be held in both Slovenian and English.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

For further information, including register, go here.

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Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, the Slovenian
Business & Research Association, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to

Hydrogen:
The missing piece of the puzzle for climate neutrality

21 March 2023  I  09:30 - 13:00
LINO Office / Lithuanian Permanent Represenation to the EU, Rue Belliard 41-43, 1040 Brussels

Renewable energy generation depends on the efficient use of wind and solar resources and a low-carbon baseload energy source will be crucial to achieving net-zero climate targets. Hydrogen is a significant part of the solutions puzzle together with renewable fuels and electrification. It could be touted as an energy storage vessel and eventually may form part of the solution for variable renewable energy, especially when produced from clean power through electrolysers. Clean hydrogen should have a central place in the climate-neutral economy of the future, and Europe must play a key role as the world’s clean hydrogen trailblazer.

The goal of this in-person event is to discuss the role of clean hydrogen in the EU energy system, the EU initiatives to support the hydrogen research and market and present different activities in the hydrogen domain of each respective country. In addition, the participants will have a possibility to network among each other and discuss possible cooperation plans in the field of hydrogen.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

For further information, including the programme and registration go here.

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The European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Slovenian Business & Research Association, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO) would like to invite you to participate at the event entitled

Deepening competencies in the EU - SKlLLS on the AGENDA

Date: 6 March 2023
Location: Online
Time: 11:00 CET/12:00 EST

The online event will focus on skills. Firstly, an introductory presentation on the Pact for Skills will be delivered, one of the flagship actions of the European Skills Agenda. The Pact for Skills is the first and latest development in the new Skills Agenda for Europe initiative. It was launched on 10 November 2020, and it aims to get public and private organisations together and encourage them to make concrete commitments to upskilling and reskilling adults. Additionally, the first speaker from the European Commission will share the latest news and updates, to acquire a better understanding of the aim, what does the Pact for Skills offer, the opportunities presented and how someone can be involved.

Since skills are one of the building blocks of the New European Innovation Agenda, the second presentation will focus on how the European Institute for Innovation & Technology (EIT) will play a prominent role in its implementation. For instance, EIT will contribute to the objectives of the Innovation Agenda by supporting 1 million deep tech talents over a 3-year period across all Member States.

Should you be interested in participating in the event, please register here.

The agenda of the event is here.

The deadline for registration is Friday, 3 March 2023.

If you have any question, please do not hesitate to contact maja.ferlinc@sbra.be.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

PRESENTATIONS:

• Felix Rohn - European Commission
• Nora Locskai - European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) - Presentation 1 & Presentation 2

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2nd Online Workshop on the European Chips Act:
Response to EU semiconductor shortages and technology empowerment plan,
including opportunities for Slovenia

31 January 2023  I  10:30 - 12:00
online via WebEx

The Slovenian Ministry of Economic Development and Technology and the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) are organising the 2nd online workshop on the European Chips Act, which will take place on the 31st of January 2023 from 10:30 to 12:00.

The online workshop will aim to present EU funding opportunities, instruments and calls for proposals that support the semiconductor value chain across the EU. More specifically, the European Commission will present the financing instrument "EIC Accelerator Challenge" with an emphasis on semiconductor components (EISMEA) and an overview of the financing possibilities from the Horizon Europe program (Cluster 4 - digital, industry and space) will be presented, which, among other things, provide financial semiconductor support (HaDEA).

In addition to the European Commission's presentation of financial opportunities, the online event will once again offer an opportunity for direct communication and the possibility of discussion with representatives of the Ministry and the European Commission.

Although the event is intended primarily for Slovenian participants, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec for further information.

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INNOVATION FUND INFO DAY
Small & large-scale project calls

27 January 2023  I  09:00 - 13:15
Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) together with the Slovenian Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning is organising an Innovation Fund Info Day, which will cover calls for both small and large-scale projects on the 27th January 2023 (from 09:30am to 13:00pm) in Ljubljana, Slovenia (Masarykova cesta 16, 1000 Ljubljana).

While the conference is primarily intended for Slovenians, participants from abroad are more than welcome to join us at the event. The conference is free of charge and will be held in both Slovenian and English.

For all participants from abroad interested in attending, please feel free to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec.

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IGLO Open
Widening participation and strengthening
the European Research Area

10 Janaury 2023  I  12:30 - 15:00
Neth-ER, Rue d'Arlon 22, 1050 Bruxelles

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) kindly invites you to the IGLO Open on 10th of January 2023 on the topic of Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area.

At the event, Mr. Joerg Niehoff (Deputy Head of Unit) and Mr. Stefan Weiers (Head of Sector) from the European Commission's Unit on ERA Governance and Implementation (DG Research and Innovation) will present the WIDERA work programme 2023-2024, which will be followed by Ms. Tanja Vertelj, the Head of the Science Division at the Slovenian Ministry of Education, Science and Sport, which will present the views of Slovenia.

The event is co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (ARIS).

For further information, including registration go here.

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The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO), the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary would like to invite you to participate in the online event on

Accelerating the Hydrogen Ecosystem

7 December 2022  I  14:30 - 16:30

Clean hydrogen will have a central place in the climate-neutral economy of the future, and Europe must play a key role as the world's clean hydrogen trailblazer. This year in the “State of the European Union” (SOTEU), President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced the intention of creating a new “European Hydrogen Bank”, which will help guarantee the purchase of hydrogen and invest €3 billion to construct a future hydrogen market. This bank will facilitate the creation of a market for green hydrogen in the EU, by bridging the investment gap and connecting future supply and demand. The essential element of hydrogen as an energy and industrial component requires the infrastructure, which is made of different parts.

The goal of this event is to learn more about the EU’s hydrogen policy and clarify the principles of a Hydrogen Bank and hydrogen infrastructure and encourage cooperation in response to the SOTEU speech. During this webinar, we will showcase best examples in research, industry and industrial infrastructure such as transformation of the mobility sector with hydrogen; clean hydrogen in industry and creation of the clean hydrogen valley.

A final confirmation and program with speakers will be sent one day before the event.

Take a look at the programme here.

Please register here.

The deadline for registration is Monday 12:00 PM CET, 5 December. A final confirmation will be sent few days before the event.

PRESENTATIONS:

• Anna Filipowicz - ORLEN Group
• Attila Nyikos - Hungarian Hydrogen Technology Association
• Darius Biesa - Green Genius
• Helene Chraye - European Commission, DG Research & Innovation
• Janez Blaz - Ministry of Infrastructure, Republic of Slovenia
• Tilen Sever - Steklarna Hrastnik
• Vasiliy Doronin - Ukrainian Hydrogen Association

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The Slovenian Business & Research Association, the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels have the pleasure to invite you to an online ZOOM matchmaking event on 2 December 2022.

Horizon Europe, Cluster 6: Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment

2 December 2022  I  Online via ZOOM

The event hopes to receive pitch presentations related to the calls under the following two destinations:

• Fair, healthy and environment-friendly food systems from primary production to consumption;
• Land, ocean and water for climate action.

Additionally, it is also possible to submit pitch presentations linked to the following two destinations: Biodiversity and ecosystem services; Circular economy and bioeconomy sectors as Other topics. We also count on the registration and participation of colleagues who have not developed a concrete project idea yet, but who are rather interested in listening to their peers.

For more information, take a look at the programme here.

You can register here.

In case you are ready to pitch, please use the PowerPoint template for structuring your presentation. The maximum length of a presentation allowed will be 3 minutes, deadline for submitting the pitches is: 25 November 2022. In case of too many submissions, the organisers will select the most developed project ideas to be presented (possible coordinators also enjoy preference), nevertheless all the presentations will be disseminated among the registered participants.

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Networking event for Slovenian and Flemish researchers

28 November 2022  I  12:00 - 17:00  I  Leuvenseweg 38, 1000 Brussels  I  On-site in-person event

The Slovenian Research Agency (ARRS), the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), and the Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) cordially invite you to a networking event exclusively designed for researchers from Slovenia and Flanders.  
  
For several years now, Slovenia and Flanders have been publishing public calls for scientific cooperation between the Slovenian and Flemish researchers, with the purpose of strengthening bilateral research in all scientific domains. In order to make it easier for researchers from Flanders and Slovenia to enter into partnerships with one another, the networking event on the 28th of November 2022 in Brussels (Leuvenseweg 38, 1000 Brussels) will offer the perfect setting and opportunity. The Slovenian researchers will represent a variety of research fields. Before the event itself, all participants will receive a catalogue with short descriptions and contacts of the participating Slovenian researchers to facilitate the match-making.  

For further information, including the agenda and registration, go here.

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European Chips Act:
Response to EU semiconductor shortages and technology empowerment plan,
including opportunities for Slovenia

25 November 2022  I  10:00 - 11:30
online via WebEx

The Slovenian Ministry of Economic Development and Technology and the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) are organising an online workshop on the European Chips Act, which will take place on the 25th of November 2022 from 10:00 to 11:30.

The European Commission (DG CONNECT) will present the legal and financial framework of the new European Chips Act. The online event will offer an opportunity for direct communication and the possibility of discussion with representatives of the European Commission and the Slovenian Ministry of Economic Development and Technology. 

Although the event is intended primarily for Slovenian participants, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec for further information.

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The Slovenian Business & Research Association, the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels have the pleasure to invite you to an online ZOOM brokerage event on 23 November 2022!

23 November 2022  I  09:30  I  Online via ZOOM

Brokerage event on calls for collaboration with African researchers under the
Horizon Europe programme clusters 5 & 6

The brokerage event on calls for collaboration with African researchers under the Horizon Europe programme clusters 5 & 6 will take place online on Wednesday, 23 November at 09:30 CET. The event is organised by Brussels liaison offices from the UnILiON network. UnILiON is an informal network of 52 Brussels-based liaison offices that represent over 157 universities across Europe, as well as in UK and Japan.

The aim of the event is to build a platform for everyone, to bring together and share ideas and find suitable partners for future consortia under the EU-African calls in Cluster 5-6. The online matchmaking event will be focused on the research and innovation community of excellent universities based in Europe and Africa.

Should you be interested in participating in the event, please register here.

Please take a look at the draft agenda of the event here.

The deadline for registration and for the submission of pitch presentations is Thursday, 17/11.

You can either register as an attendee (you will have opportunity to listen to the pitches) or as a pitch presenter (to make a 5-minute pitch on your ideas and potential). Please be aware that only 1 pitch presentation per institution will be allowed. As there is a limited number of pitch presentations places possible, the organisers reserve the right to select presenters. Presenters will receive more detailed information about the expected structure and content of their pitches after their registration.

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State-of-the-art Developments in Healthcare Systems

15 November 2022  I  Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) together with the Slovenian Ministry of Science, Education and Sport is organising a conference on State-of-the-art Developments in Healthcare Systems on the 15th November 2022 (from 09:00am to 12:00pm) in Ljubljana, Slovenia (Masarykova cesta 16, 1000 Ljubljana).

The COVID pandemic has exposed the challenges faced by healthcare systems across Europe, including Slovenia. The conference will touch upon many aspects; from the reorganization of healthcare systems to new innovative tech solutions offering greater efficiency. At the forefront of healthcare solutions should be patients and scientific findings in the field of medicine. The focus must be to better tackle and manage diseases – be it from chronic and infectious – that cause the greatest burden on society and highest mortality rates (i.e. cancer). In this context, harm reduction will also be discussed. The concept that enables those who have difficulties entirely giving up certain vices to at the very least implement less harmful alternatives.

The conference is intended for the widest range of participants, from both the public and private sectors, to fields covering healthcare, education, technology and science. Especially welcome are health professionals and decision-makers in healthcare.

While the conference is primarily intended for Slovenians, participants from abroad are more than welcome to join us at the event. The conference is free of charge and will be held in both Slovenian and English.

Take a look at the programme here.

Interview on Radio Slovenia International (RSi) regarding the event can be found here.

For all participants from abroad intersted in attending, please feel free to contact Mr. Bostjan Sinkovec.

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How to make the most of the
European Partnerships in Horizon Europe?

Monday, 7 November 2022  I  10:00am - 12:00pm CET via Zoom

The Slovenian Business & Research Association, the NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels have the pleasure to invite you to a webinar: How to make the most of the European Partnerships in Horizon Europe?

European Partnerships, as key implementation tool of Horizon Europe, bring the European Commission and private and public partners together to address some of Europe’s most pressing challenges through concerted research and innovation initiatives. They are meant to contribute significantly to achieving the EU’s policy priorities.

The partnerships are one of the most important mechanisms to get industry, science and governments to cooperate and invest in strategic high tech sectors, and to bring advanced R&I solutions closer to market. As new efforts are being made and considered by the Commission to ensure effective synergies, both between partnerships and with other funds and programmes. We plan to discuss stakeholders’ involvement in the selected co-programmed partnerships coordinated by the research associations: A.SPIRE and EFFRA. We aim to address both the scope and benefits of participation. The parallel objective of the webinar is to identify potential obstacles to bringing more companies and research organisations from our Member States on board.

The detailed agenda is available here.

Please register here.

The deadline for registration is Thursday, 3 November.  A final confirmation of registration will be sent a few days before the event.

PRESENTATIONS:

• Dr Mihaela Williams, RTD G.4 - Introduction to European Partnerships under Horizon Europe
• Dr. Elisabeth Ilie Zudor - Institute for Computer Science and Control

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EURegionsWeek Workshop

Regions addressing integrated sustainable urban development through cohesion policy projects

12 October 2022  I  14:30  I  Online

Workshop code: 12WS22283

Our workshop addressed the various challenges of urban life and presented numerous solutions and best practices in sustainable urban development which have been achieved through an integrated approach and with strong partnerships between different stakeholders. Projects where cities are shown as the source of and solution to today's economic, environmental and social challenges were displayed. These urban areas are the engines of the economy and act as catalysts for creativity and innovation in the regions.

Presentations:

• Ms. Saša Heath Drugovič - Integrated Territorial Investments in Slovenia in 2014-2020
• Ms. Maria Luz Macho - The Covenant of Mayors in Practice
• Mr. Jose Ribau Esteves - Aveiro Tech City
• Ms. Simona Cupan - Regional Program Buchrest-Ilfov

For further information, go here.

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EU Digital Health Tech & Innovation Conference

27 September 2022  I  10:00 – 13:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU
Boulevard du Régent 45-46, 1000 Brussels
On-site in-person event

In recent years, especially in the light of the COVID-19 crisis, the healthcare sector has become more data-driven, the use of digital technologies in the health sector has increased, and health practitioners are able to use data and technologies to accelerate and increase the efficiency of healthcare services. The objective of the conference is to present the latest EU policies, initiatives and trends in digital health, present funding opportunities for digital health projects and showcase innovative business models from organizing countries.

For further information, registration and full programme, click here.

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European Defence Fund 2022
Information Day for Slovenian Stakeholders

15 September 2022   I   09:30 - 12:30
Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) and the Slovenian Ministry of Defence are organising an information day for Slovenian stakeholders regarding the European Defence Fund 2022 on the 15 September 2022 in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

The European Defence Fund (EDF) helps reduce the fragmentation of the European defence capability development landscape. It also enhances industrial competitiveness and promotes interoperability throughout Europe. The EDF 2022 work programme will allocate up to a total of €924 million in funding; addressed in total 33 topics structured along eight calls for proposals to kick-start a number of large emblematic projects. It targets relevant defence technologies and capabilities in line with the EU capability priorities commonly agreed by Member States and further elaborated in the Strategic Compass.

This year, with a budget of more than €120 million for each, two critical domains will be put in the spotlight to support capability developments: Space and Naval combat. In addition, €70 million will be allocated to R&D efforts in each of the two following categories: Cyber and Information superiority.

For further information, go here.

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RePower Women: Possibilities for Women in
Technology and Innovation

9 September 2022  I  09:30 - 11:30  I  online via Zoom

The Slovenian Business & Research Association, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO) have the pleasure to invite you to participate in the online event RePower Women: Possibilities for Women in Technology and Innovation.

The event will take place on Friday 9 September at 09:30 via Zoom.

The tech sector sadly lags behind the rest of the job market when it comes to hiring women. Deep tech represents more than a quarter of Europe’s start-up ecosystem, and European deep tech companies are now valued at €700 billion. Yet women remain largely underrepresented across this industry.

Today, women obtain only 10% of patent applications in the EU, and less than 15% of start-ups are founded or co-founded by women (and only 6% by women-only teams). This translates into low amounts of capital invested into women-led companies, creating a vicious circle. Only 5% of venture capital goes to mixed teams (with men and women) and only 2% to all-women teams. The Covid crisis has only made matters worse. Funding to female founders during the pandemic was down 31% compared to 2019, while funding for all-male teams dropped by just 16% during the same period.

The goal of this event is to showcase different initiatives in the EU and encourage female participation in tech and innovation promoting gender equality in the workplace. By discussing with other female entrepreneurs and tech leaders, this online event will focus on the challenges we face and be a part of the solution to reduce the gender gap.

Should you be interested in participating in the event, please register here.

Please take a look at the programme of the event here.

The deadline for registration is Thursday, 8 September 2022.

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European Research Assessment Reform: Why and When?

31 May 2022  I  14:00 - 15:35
Online

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO) would like to invite you to participate at our event entitled European Research Assessment Reform: Why and When?

This event will take place online on Tuesday 31 May, 14h00 CET via Zoom. 

The European Commission has called for organisations to express their interest in being part of a coalition on reforming research assessment. The coalition brought together research funding organisations, research performing organisations, national/regional assessment authorities or agencies, associations of research funders, of research performers, of researchers, as well as, learned societies and other relevant organisations, all willing and committed to implement reforms to the current research assessment system.

This online event will focus on the rationale behind the need for a renewed approach to the research assessment system and share the stakeholders’ views on reforming research assessment. An exchange of viewpoints among experts in the field and the audience will follow.

Should you be interested in participating in the event, please register here. The deadline for registration was Friday, 27/05. 

A final confirmation and program with speakers will be sent few days before the event.

Please take a look at the programme of the event here.

Due to high interest, the event will be also streamed online through YouTube (go here). Choose this option if you prefer it or in case of difficulties connecting to the ZOOM event.

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The latest developments in healthcare

21 April 2022  I  09:30 - 11:30
via WebEx

On the 21st of April, the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) and the Slovenian Research Agency are organising a webinar focusing on the latest developments in healthcare. The presentations and discussion will cover current healthcare policies, as well as future trends, and recent game-changing discoveries. In this context, the meeting will also touch upon a fairly important topic of »harm reduction«.

While the meeting will be conducted in Slovenian, besides one of the keynote presentations, the video recording and conclusions from the event will be translated to English. If you're interested in following a similar event in the near future, do not hesitate to contact us.

For further information, go here.

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eVALUatE
Why become an expert for Horizon Europe?

7 April 2022   I   09:30 CET/10:30 EST

Online

The Slovenian Business & Research Association, European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels (LINO) would like to invite you to participate in our event entitled eVALUatE – Why become an expert for Horizon Europe!

This online event will be focused on the added value of being an evaluator of RDI framework programme proposals. After the keynote speech of the European Commission on how to become an evaluator, a panel discussion will follow on why to become an evaluator, by speakers from Cyprus, Poland, Slovenia, Hungary and Lithuania. Questions like how do you evaluate the proposal? Where do you start? What are you looking at in the project as an evaluator? What are the advantages (and disadvantages) of being an “evaluator”? and many more will be answered.

Should you be interested in participating in the event, please register here.

Please find programme of the event here.

The deadline for registration is Monday, 04/04.

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Clean Hydrogen Calls for Proposals 2022
Information day for Slovenian stakeholders

31 March 2022  I  10:00 – 12:30 CET

The Slovenian Business and Research Association cordially invites you to the national information day for Slovenian stakeholders to present the 2022 calls for proposals, published recently by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership. 300.5 million EUR will be available to support projects that boost renewable hydrogen production, reduce its costs, develop its storage and distribution solutions, and stimulate the use of low carbon hydrogen in hard to abate sectors, such as energy intensive industries, aviation or heavy duty transport. The call will also continue to help stimulating the deployment of “hydrogen valleys” across Europe, complex projects that cover the entire hydrogen value chain in a specific region, scaling-up hydrogen deployment and creating interconnected hydrogen ecosystems across Europe.

The agenda is availble here.

To register, go here.

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Circular Economy in Textile and Plastic Sector:
Expression of Interest

18 March 2022  I  14:30 - 16:30

The objective of the event is to establish connections for stakeholders with complementary know-how in the textile and plastics recycling (product post-treatment, product analysis, potential users, research on new types of waste / specific fibers, development and testing of other technologies like glycolysis, etc.) for potential project collaboration and the establishment of new value chains in different sectors.

In order to group all the relevant stakeholders interested in the topic, the ESM Pilot is organizing the event on 18th March 2022, extended to all Vanguard regions to express the interest to join the activities on textile and plastic circular economy.

The event will offer the opportunity to describe with a brief pitch your regional expertise/capabilities and to discuss possible connection points and collaborative activities to be performed within Vanguard framework.

Please take a look at the agenda.

The template for the pitch is available here.

To register go here.

For additional information regarding the event, please contact Ms. Maja Ferlinc via maja.ferlinc@sbra.be

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IGLO Regional Policy WG Meeting

31 January 2022  I  10:00 - 12:00

The WG meeting will include three speakers; Ms. Karina Firkaviciute from DG Research and Innovation will present ERA Governance and Implementation; followed Mr. Stijn Delaure from DG Research and Innovation will present ERA Governance and Implementation. The event will close with a presentation from Dr. Gregor Anderluh, the director of National institute of Chemistry in Slovenia who will to briefly cover the importance of the brain circulation.

While the meeting is normally reserved for members of IGLO, if you would be interested to join, do not hesitate to contact Ms. Maja Ferlinc directly (maja.ferlinc@sbra.be)

Presentations:

• Karina Firkaviciute - European Commmission, DG Research & Innovation
• Stijn Delaure - European Commission, DG Research & Innovation
• Gregor Anderluh / Barbara Tisler - National Institute of Chemistry, Slovenia

To register, go here.

The agenda is available here.

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Slovenian Business & Research Association, the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University, the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office in Hungary and the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels organised

Horizon Europe Matchmaking Event on
Digital and Emerging Technologies and Human-centred AI

Date: Monday, 24 January 2022
Location: Online
Time: 09h30 CET/10h30 EST

The online matchmaking event focused on the research and innovation community of Cyprus, Greece, Poland, Slovenia, Hungary and Lithuania as well as other other relevant European stakeholders. The goal of the event was to build a platform for everyone to share their ideas and find partners for future consortia in Horizon Europe calls, with a particular focus on Cluster 4, under Digital related topics (Digital and emerging technologies for competitiveness and fit for green deal 2022; A human-centered and ethical development of digital and industrial technologies 2022 and other Digital related projects).

The recording of the event, as well as the presentations are available here.

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The latest developments in healthcare

6 December 2021  I  16:00 - 18:00

On 6 December, a scientific meeting was coorgnised by the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), New University, University of Ljubljana and the University of Maribor regarding the latest developments in healthcare. The presentations and roundtable discussion covered current healthcare policies, as well as future trends, and recent game-changing discoveries. In this context, the meeting also touched upon a fairly important topic of harm reduction. While the meeting was conducted in Slovenian, besides one of the keynote presentations, the video recording and conclusions from the event have be translated to English. If you're interested in following a similar event in the near future, do not hesitate to contact us.

For the video recording, presentations and conclusions, please click here.

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Debate on Artificial Intelligence, organized by the Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA), the Slovenian Embassy in Brussels and the European Movement in Belgium (EMB)

Brussels, Rond Point Schuman
16h30 - 18h30
30 November 2021

SLOVENIAN WEEK
SLOVENIAN FESTIVAL
29 November 2021 - 2 December 2021

A panel debate and presentation on AI-practices will be held in a tent on the Rond Point Schuman, Brussels. The event is targeting a broad audience in an informal setting, which will be reflected in the introduced topics.

Artificial intelligence is becoming seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives, augmenting our knowledge and capabilities in driving, avoiding traffic, finding friends, choosing the perfect movie, and even cooking a healthier meal. It also has a significant impact on many aspects of society and industry, ranging from scientific discovery, healthcare and medical diagnostics to smart cities, transport and sustainability. AI can have a significant impact on real-world social challenges and the potential to bring valuable solutions to various societal issues. Within this 21st century ‘man meets machine’ reality unfolding, several social and juristic challenges emerge and occassion will explore whether humanity is prepared for that.

The event will try to review social dilemmas where individual interests are at odds with the interests of others, and where artificial intelligence might have a particularly hard time making the right decision.

For further information, take a look at the full programme here.

The above programme is part of the Slovenian Festival, taking place from 29 November to 1 December. Take a look at the full programme below. You can also select the appropriate date for further details:

• 29 November - 1 December: Full programme
• 29 November: VIP Invitation opening of the Slovenian Festival
• 30 November: Documentary Film 30 peaks for 30 yrs
• 1 December: Conversation on Sport

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SMEs & DEFENCE INITIATIVES:
Unlocking Opportunities & Overcoming Challenges

30 November 2021  I  09:30 – 12:30
Online via WebEx

European Union’s new defence initiatives, including the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) and the European Defence Fund (EDF), aim to increase cooperation between Member States and the defence industry, where joint investment in research and capability development is crucial. The Republic of Slovenia supports the position that upgrading the European defence industrial and technological base, founded on the inclusion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), is especially important for countries that do not have their own large dedicated defence industry.

The strategic compass, which aims at directing and operationalizing various defence initiatives and harmonizing them in a common European crisis response, will not only evaluate concrete capability projects, but also focus on a defence innovation hub and new instruments in critical technologies. In order to achieve these goals, it will be necessary to connect various forms of industry, technological research institutes and universities, where SMEs will play a key role.

The workshop will focus on the involvement and participation of SMEs in defence initiatives and resulting consortia to provide mechanisms for maximizing the openness of European supply chains.

Presentations from the European Defence Agency, the European Commission DG DEFIS and the Slovenian Ministry of Defence have already been confirmed. More so, the workshop will feature an array of presentations from Slovenian SMEs in the defence sector, including Guardiaris from Slovenia, as well as global giant Airbus. To top it all off, a round table will host a lively debate among industry leaders, complimented by a renowned moderator specialised on defence and security issues.

For further information and registration, go here.

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EIT Urban Mobility: Together for more
liveable urban spaces in Slovenia

28 October 2021  I  Ljubljana, Slovenia

EIT Urban Mobility is an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union. Since January 2019, EIT has been working to encourage positive changes in the way people move around cities to make them more liveable places. It aims to become the largest European initiative transforming urban mobility by bringing together European cities, universities, research and industry partners.

In order to increase awareness about EIT Urban Mobility, its objectives and activities, in Slovenia, an outreach event will take place on 28 October 2021 in the School of Economics and Business of the University of Ljubljana. 

The event is organised by Innovation Hub Central, one of the five Hubs of EIT Urban Mobility, which cover Slovenia and seven other European countries; in close cooperation with the Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) and the Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute (ZAG), which also acts as contact point for the Regional Innovation Scheme. SBRA and ZAG decisively contribute with their knowledge and experience of the Slovenian sphere to the event success.

The event aims to bring together all relevant stakeholders on urban mobility in Slovenia and find potential ways of future collaboration.

Should you are interested to participate, please register here ASAP!

Programme is availble here.

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The Slovenian Business & Research Association, European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University, and the National Research, Development and Innovation Office in Hungary would like to invite you to participate in

Horizon Europe Matchmaking Event on Energy

Date: Tuesday, 19 October 2021
Location: Online
Time: 09h30 CET/10h30 EST until 12h30 CET/13h30 EST

This online matchmaking event will be focused on the research and innovation community of Cyprus, Greece, Poland, Slovenia, and Hungary but it is also open to other relevant European stakeholders. The goal of the event is to build a platform for everyone to share their ideas and find partners for future consortia in Horizon Europe calls, with a particular focus on Cluster 5, under Energy related topics (Energy systems, grids, and storage; Renewable energy, Carbon capture, utilisation and storage, Efficient, sustainable, and inclusive energy use (including energy-efficient buildings).

For registration, programme and additional information, go here!

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Sustainability beyond national boundaries:
Cross-border cooperation as a driver for change in biodiversity protection
and sustainable mobility patterns

Tuesday, 12 October 2021  I  11:30 AM to 13:00
Online

The workshop will address cooperation for sustainability with a double approach, covering the implementation of green mobility between neighbouring Italy and Slovenia and the challenge of conserving biodiversity faced by five different cross-border projects. One approach focuses on the contribution of CROSSMOBY and FORTIS, projects under the Interreg V-A Italy-Slovenia programme, to greening mobility between Italy and Slovenia. Boosting cross-border regions through better transport systems is the aim of the initiatives being implemented, and the results can also be seen in terms of their concrete impact on citizens and tourists. The workshop will discuss the pilot actions and synergies of the two projects by sharing their main achievements and best practices for sustainable urban development at the cross-border level.

For further information, go here.

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Connecting Regional Innovation Ecosystems:
Interregional value chains to spur the digital transition

Tuesday, 12 October 2021  I  14:30 to 16:00

Join us on the 12 October at 14:30 at the Connecting Regional Innovation Ecosystems workshop. The workshop will showcase how connecting regional innovation ecosystems to develop interregional value chains is of paramount importance in achieving the digital yransition. The Vanguard Initiative (VI) leads by example, allowing its members to collaborate by implementing a fresh approach to industrial transformation based on smart specialisation strategies (S3). By highlighting such best practices, this workshop will provide other regions with the opportunity to learn from current activities and connect for future endeavours. Indeed, the pilot activities offer a line of action that fosters interregional value chains by drawing on the existing strengths of regional ecosystems and remaining open to pulling in new, less well-represented actors or territories. While the role of S3 will be essential in the next EU programming period (2021-2027), the Vanguard member regions are well placed to highlight how synergy and complementarity between funding instruments will be pivotal at all levels. In this context, they have been contributing for a number of years to the process of co-designing the Interregional Innovation Investment (I3) instrument with the European Commission, and have welcomed that instrument, which could be a catalyst for place-based recovery and interregional innovation activities.

For regisration and further details, go here.

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EUROPEAN DEFENCE FUND 2021
Information day for Slovenian stakeholders

1 September 2021  I  10:00 – 12:30
Online via WebEx

Following the Preparatory Action on Defence Research (PADR) and the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP), the European Defence Fund (EDF) has been created to foster the competitiveness, efficiency and innovation capacity of the defence technological and industrial base throughout the EU. It should complement, leverage and consolidate collaborative efforts and cross-border cooperation between legal entities in developing defence capabilities that respond to security challenges. The EDF should also foster better exploitation of the industrial potential of innovation, research and technological development at each stage of the industrial life cycle of defence products and technologies.

The purpose of the event was to present the work programme of the European Defence Fund 2021 and the calls for proposal for 2021 in the 15 thematic categories of actions. Additionally to the presentation of the calls for proposal, the event also presented the experiences of successful project coordinators in the previous EDIDP and PADR calls and discuss the building the EU level partnerships in the defence sector.

For further information and registration, go here.

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HORIZON EUROPE
Widening Participation and Spreading Excellence

6 July 2021  I  13:00 – 15:30
Online via WebEx

Under the patronage of the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the EU, the Slovenian Business and Research Association in Brussels (SBRA), the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University and the National Research, Development and Innovation Office in Hungary have the pleasure to invite you to participate in the virtual information event on Horizon Europe: Widening Participation and Spreading Excellence.

This virtual event will focus on the research communities of the widening countries: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

In the first part, the Slovenian presidency and the representative of the research organisation will present their views on the importance of the widening programme. The second part of the event, will be dedicated to the presentation of the experiences of the previous widening projects and the discussion on how to best achieve the following key objectives of the Horizon Europe Widening participation programme. In the  third part of the event, the first two destinations of the working programme Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area will be presented.

For further information, including the programme and registration, go here.

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Priorities of the Slovenian Presidency in

Education, Science, Research & Innovation

18 May 2021  I  10:00 – 11:30
Online via WebEx

Starting on 1 July, Slovenia will preside over the Council of the European Union for the second time. This particular webinar will place special emphasis on the priorities of education, science, research and innovation. 

Times of crises can offer a renewed resolve and the coming decade can  offer new opportunities to refocus priorities in educational objectives and keep education a top priority. Concurrently, now is the time to push for substantial sustainable progress in strategic areas such as upgrading research infrastructure, as well as other activities supporting and enabling excellence in science, research and innovation.

UnILiON (Universities Informal Liaison Offices Network) is a Brussels-based informal network of 50 Brussels-based liaison offices representing more than 150 excellent universities from the EU, but also the United Kingdom, Norway, Japan and Russia. The network represents an arena of exchange where the participants share information and nurture collaboration.

For additional information regarding the programme and registration, please go here.

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Matchmaking Event on Horizon Europe Cluster 2:
Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society

11 May 2021  I  09:00 - 14:00

Online

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), the European Office of Cyprus – Brussels Office, NCBR Office in Brussels – Business & Science Poland, Eötvös Loránd University, and the National Research, Development and Innovation Office in Hungary would like to invite you to participate in a virtual Matchmaking Event on Horizon Europe Cluster 2: Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society in Horizon Europe.

This virtual matchmaking event will be focused on the research and innovation communities of Cyprus, Greece, Poland, Slovenia and Hungary. The goal of the event is to build a platform for everyone to share their ideas, and find partners for future consortia in Horizon Europe Calls; with a particular focus on Cluster 2, under destination 2: Innovative Research on the European Cultural Heritage and the Culture and Creative Industries. 

For further information regarding registration and agenda, go here.

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Priorities of the Slovenian Presidency
in Science, Research & Innovation

7 May 2021  I  10:00 – 11:30
Online via WebEx

Starting on 1 July, Slovenia will preside over the Council of the European Union for the second time. Slovenia's presidency has established a greener EU as one of its key priority themes. Following the European Commission’s 2021 Work Programme, it will engage in addressing climate change and support initiatives to reach environmental goals. The green transformation will be paired with further efforts to strengthen the bloc's resilience to different kinds of crises, which include pandemics, cyber-attacks, migration and economic crises, among others.

This particular webinar placed special emphasis on the priorities of science and technology and related disciplines. Times of crises can offer a renewed resolve and the coming decade can  offer new opportunities which can be used efficiently to achieve substantial sustainable progress in strategic areas such as upgrading research infrastructure, as well as other activities supporting and enabling excellence in science and research.

For further information regarding the programme, presentations and recording, please go here.

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I3 - Interregional Innovation Investments

31 March 2021  I  14:00 - 15:30

The Slovenian Business and Research Association (SBRA) will be presenting European Commission’s new instrument I3 - Interregional Innovation Investments. The event is primarily intended for Slovenian participants (if you are interested to participate however, do not hesitate to contact maja.ferlinc@sbra.be). A representative from the Directorate-General for Regional Policy will present the new instrument and future calls and opportunities for cooperation. Furthermore, the smart specialization strategy in Slovenia will be discussed, as well as the promotion of interregional cooperation.

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IGLO Regional Policy Meeting

24 March 2021  I  14:00 - 15:30

IGLO is an informal association of Brussels-based non-profit R&D Liaison Offices. The aim of IGLO is to facilitate and enhance the interaction, information exchange and co-operation between Members of IGLO, their national research systems and the European institutions on issues related to EU RTD, in particular, the Framework Programmes. The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) has been a member since its inception and coleads the Regional Policy Working Group.

While the nature of the meeting is closed for non-members - if it is something that you may be interested in, please do not hesitate to contact maja.ferlinc@sbra.be

Invitation and programe is available here.

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EMPOWERMENT OF OLDER PERSONS IN REGIONS

Side event within EWRC 2020
WE4AHA thematic workshop

When: 08/10/2020 from 14:00 - 16:30
Organiser: Slovenian Innovation Hub (as Reference Site Slovenia) with the help of SBRA
Venue: Online

Partners:
The conference presented inspiring practices in empowering senior citizens in various cultural environments from Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Greece and Slovenia (altogether from 8 Reference Sites of the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (EIPonAHA). The regional showcases were complemented with an overview of the activities of the Active Assisted Living Programme (AAL). The event was supported by the European Regions Research and Innovation Network (ERRIN).

Concept:
Empowerment aims to increase a healthy lifespan by providing tools (digital and non-digital) and creating more opportunities for managing the health of older adults. Empowered senior citizens are more independent, have more control over their own lives and can influence decision making in their communities and in the organisations, they belong to. Reference Sites are in the driving seat of these innovations in their regions. They are awarded as recognition for their inspirational ecosystems and for developing, promoting and scaling-up creative and workable solutions that could improve the lives and health of elderly. The panel discussion featured good practices from eight regions from five countries and projects from the Active Assisted Living Programme.

The recording of the event can be found here.

Further information regarding Reference Sites: https://ec.europa.eu/eip/ageing/reference-sites_en

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SERVITIZATION:
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH IN EUROPEAN REGIONS

6 October 2020  I  10:00 – 13:00
Online via WebEx

A growing number of manufacturing SMEs have been adding services into their product offers as a way of enhancing value through innovative and integrated product-service systems. However, the ability to servitize and introduce value-adding services into their operations is highly complex and demanding. Therefore, partners of Things+ project (Interreg Central Europe) set out to help SMEs with specific support tools they developed in the project. During the pilot program in which more than 100 SMEs from CE region participated, it became clear that servitization is the right strategy for creating value-added activities for manufacturing companies by developing services to technological, logistic, administrative, organizational, marketing processes or even replacing the original product altogether with a service.

The event focused on discussing the importance of introducing innovative services and non-technological innovation to traditional manufacturing SMEs in order to increase their competitiveness and therefore contribute to regional development and growth. Several manufacturing SMEs also presented their positive experience from implementing the servitization methodologies and techniques in their business processes. Things+ project partners strongly believe that including servitization techniques into existing support schemes in Central Europe, would have a positive impact on the economy. To make the addition easier, partners developed policy recommendations which present the roadmap to policymakers for further development and support of service innovation processes in manufacturing companies, not only the big ones, but also small and medium enterprises.

For futher information, including the programme, presentations and recording of the event, go here!

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UnILiON Green Deal Brokerage WebEx Meeting

25 September 2020
09:30 - 12:00

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) hosted the brokerage event on the 25th of September 2020 via WebEx. If you are interested in either leading or joining a consortium regarding the topic LC-GD-3-2-2020, do not hesitate to contact Ms. Maja Ferlinc via maja.ferlinc@sbra.be

The topic LC-GD-3-2-2020: Demonstration of systemic solutions for the territorial deployment of the circular economy has been published and is available here.

For presentations and further information, go here.

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Europe Against Cancer:
Recognizing the Importance of Innovation in Healthcare

21 September 2020  I  10:30 – 12:30
Online via WebEx

Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the EU. In fact, cancer now accounts for a quarter of all deaths and is the number one cause of death for people aged 45-64 in an increasing number of EU countries. There are an estimated 3.5 million new cases of cancer and 1.3 million deaths from cancer in Europe every year. During the past seven years, the EU has invested nearly €1.5 billion in international collaborative research, frontier research, mobility programmes, public-private partnerships and coordination of national cancer research efforts. Over half of this budget - €770 million – is used for collaborative research projects, to find new ways to fight cancer and help patients.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is not clear yet – especially considering the geographical variations and irregular evolution of the pandemic across countries – however, there have been reported delays in cancer screening and diagnoses.

The webinar placed special emphasis on the EU cancer plan, and the complementary policies of Member States.

The programme is available here.

The conference was mostly conducted in Slovenian, except for one or two presentations in English - if you're interested in receiving the event conclusions, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

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Webinar on EU project funding opportunities

Friday, 10 July 2020  I  10:00 - 12:00

Online via Zoom / Klagenfurt, Austria

The presentation covered the upcoming Missions in Horizon Europe, the European Green Deal Call, European Innovation Council, EIC Accelerator Pilot, EIC Horizon Prizes and much more. If you didn't get the chance to tune in, you're welcome to take a look at the presentation and recording of the webinar! 

For further details, go here!

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Online presentation of the
Horizon 2020 Green Deal call

9 July 2020  I  11:00 - 12:30

Horizon Europe is the EU's next research and innovation programme starting in 2021.There will be a new wave of research and innovation partnerships under Horizon Europe. Partnerships will help drive the huge transformations in environment, society and the economy that the European Green Deal calls for. The call contains 11 areas: Eight thematic areas, three horizontal areas.

To respond to the urgency and ambition of the European Green Deal objectives, Horizon 2020 will soon launch a call worth close to €1 billion. The call is foreseen to be published in September 2020.

The Slovenian Business & Research Association organized an information session on the Horizon 2020 Green Deal call on Thursday, 9th of July 2020 at 11:00 - 12:30.

Mr. Sven Schade from DG RTD,  Unit A.3 Horizon Strategic Planning & Programming presented the call. The presentation was a good opportunity to showcase the good examples of Vanguard demo cases, related to the call topics.

The programme, presentations and the recording of the webinar is available here.

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Smart Factories of the Future:
From Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0

8 July 2020, Webinar (via Webex)

The conference placed special emphasis on the future and meaning of smart factories and their benefits to society at large. More specifically, the conference touched upon the role which smart factories play in the EU research and innovation agenda, including the various actions for smart factories at EU level, as well as the responsibilities to be performed by DIHs to support smart factories. More so, the event was a unique opportunity to learn from excellent examples of research and innovation for smart factories from Slovenia and Lithuania.

Please take a look at the programme, presentations and the recording by clicking here.

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SBRA is organising a webinar on

EDIDP-2020 European defence industrial development programme call for proposals

7 May  I  10:00 - 12:00

The objective of the EDIDP is to foster the competitiveness, efficiency and innovation capacity of the defence industry throughout the Union, thus contributing to the Union's strategic autonomy. Furthermore, EDIDP aims at supporting and leveraging the cooperation including across borders between undertakings including SMEs and mid-caps. Finally, EDIDP also aims to foster better exploitation of the results of defence research and contribute to development after the research phase.

This particular webinar was organised primarily for relevant stakeholders from Slovenia, however in case you may be interested to attend similar events in the future, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us (email either maja.ferlinc@sbra.be or bostjan.sinkovec@sbra.be).

The presentation delivered is available here.

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Smart Factories of the Future:
From Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0

POSTPONED, NEW DATE TO BE COMMUNICATED ASAP
LINO - Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office in Brussels,
Rue Belliard 41-43, 1040 Brussels, Belgium

The conference will place special emphasis on the future and meaning of smart factories and their benefits to society at large. More specifically, the conference will touch upon the role which smart factories play in the EU research and innovation agenda, including the various actions for smart factories at EU level, as well as the responsibilities to be performed by DIHs to support smart factories.  More so, the event will be a unique opportunity to learn from excellent examples of research and innovation for smart factories from Slovenia and Lithuania.

For further information, regarding the programme and registration, click here.

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Role of Small and Medium-Sized Cities
in the European Green Deal

POSTPONED, NEW DATE TO BE COMMUNICATED ASAP
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU
Rue du Commerce 44, 1000 Brussels

The European Green Deal has become a top priority of the European Union – with up to one third of the future EU budget directed to green topics – consequently, actions will also have to be undertaken on the local level to implement these green priorities. The Green Deal is not only intended for large cities and expansive metropolitan areas, in fact, many European small and medium-sized cities are frontrunners in transforming to green and circular economies; including winning the European Green Capital Award. The goal of the conference is to discuss and showcase how small and medium-sized cities in Europe can transform their local ecosystems and policies to create green and sustainable living environments for their citizens.

For further information, regarding the programme and registration, click here.

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Research & Innovation in Cities of the Future: Opportunities for cities in the next financial period

Ljubljana / 6 February 2020

MOL - Rdeča dvorana, Mestni trg 1

The Slovenian Business & Research Association alongside Association of Urban Municipalities organisinged an event on Research & Innovation in Cities of the Future. The event was primarily aimed at cities, but representatives of research organizations, universities, businesses and other organizations interested in the role of cities in the next financial perspective also attended.

Emphasis was placed on the Structural Funds, Horizon Europe, the Horizon Europe Smart Cities Mission, Innovative Cities and Smart Digital Cities. The presentations were in both Slovene and English.

For further information, including the agenda and presentations click here.

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100th Anniversary of the University of Ljubljana:
Celebrating Excellence in
Education, Science and Research

15 January 2020
KBC, Brussels
Grand Place 17, 1000 Brussels

SBRA alongside the University of Ljubljana organised an event dedicated to the 100th Anniversary of the University of Ljubljana on 15 January 2020 at the prestigious premises of the KBC Bank situated right on the Grand Place.

The inauguration of the University of Ljubljana marked a historic day for Slovenians, for the first time creating a science, learning and cultural center in present day Slovenia. In the first academic year 1919/1920, 942 students enrolled - of which 28 were women. Although the number men may have greatly outnumbered that of women, the very first PhD title was bestowed upon a woman, which at the time was a rarity in Europe and the world.

For further information about the event, programme and photos, click here.

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Digital Europe and Future Role of DIHs/S3

8 November 2019  I  Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

We are honoured to invite you to the conference Digital Europe and Future Role of DIHs/S3 organized by the Smart-Space project funded through Interreg Alpine Space Programme.

The conference will:
• Highlight some relevant topics of the future and challenges of the digital transformation in Europe;
• Present the state of the art and stakeholders of the Alpine Space DIHs;
• Introduce the best practice of DIHs and their future role in the digital transformation of entrepreneurship and industry;
• Display opportunities for interaction between SME and policy instruments;
• Strengthen the exchange of innovative practices and successful digital transformation politics between Alpine Space regions and countries.

For further information concerning the programme, click here.

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The Dawn of Horizon Europe:
Europe's New Research & Innovation Programme

The Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) annually organises the now traditional Info Days, with this year’s instalment entitled “The Dawn of Horizon Europe: Europe’s New Research & Innovation Programme”.

The objective of the conference was to inform Slovenian stakeholders of the future Horizon Europe programme and dive into its key features and particularities. High level speakers from the European Commission and the Slovenian government presented different aspects of Horizon Europe, from global challenges and research priorities, to Marie Sklodowska Curie, European Research Council, European Innovation Council, Future Knowledge and Research Communities, including a special emphasis on widening topics.

Lastly, managers of Slovenian Strategic Research and Innovation Partnerships (SRIPs) also held a lively round table debate on the importance of the future research partnerships.

For further information concerning the programme, presentations and photographs, click here.

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Funding for European Defence Research & Technology

For further information concerning the programme, click here.

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European Week of Regions and Cities Workshop:
Measuring Social Progress in European Regions & Cities

9 October 2019, 14:30 - 17:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU, Rue du Commerce 44, 1000 Brussels

The workshop session was organised by pilot regions of the project Eastern Slovenia Region, Western Greece Region, Bucharest-Ilfov, City of Umea - in the format of a regional partnership and with the support of the EU SPI Pilot project. The overall aim of the workshop was to generate new knowledge through the application of indicator frameworks, which are measuring human well-being and social progress at the international, European and regional level – especially the EU Regional Social Progress Index.

To see the complete programme and presentations from the event, click here.

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The 21st Century Demand for Creative Entrepreneurship
and How to Take Advantage

8th October 2019 at 9.30
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU, Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

The event showcased regional good practice cases from a number of SMEs and included specific recommendations by experts in the field of creativity, innovation and sustainability. The event provided a unique occasion for entrepreneurs, and for the general public as well, to learn about the crucial role of creativity - driven innovation in boosting the competitiveness of SMEs.

For further details regarding the programme, the presentations and the photos, click here.

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Sustainable Business Models in Circular Bioeconomy

23 September 2019   I   09:15 – 14:30
Rue du Commerce 44, 1000 Brussels
Permanent Representation of Slovenia to the EU

In 2015, the European Commission adopted the Circular Economy Action Plan, where circular economy is defined as an economic concept where the value of products, materials and resources is maintained in the economy for as long as possible, and consequently the generation of waste minimized. Undeniably, one of the key sector areas of the circular economy is also biomass, which the conference will also address.

The key objective of the conference is to present sustainable business models and best practice examples of public and private cooperation, investment, research and business cooperation, as well as demonstrating the deployment of sustainable and circular bio-based solutions. The conference will focus on investment and financing opportunities for circular bioeconomy, including best practice examples of business-research cooperation.

For further information, programme and registration, please click here.

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From policy to practice: Knowledge-building for
innovative and sustainable tourism in regions

28 May 2019   I   Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU

Tourism is the fourth largest economic activity globally and it is among the fastest-growing economic sectors. But tourism growth comes at a cost. It is the fifth largest polluting industry. There is a need for a paradigm change from mass to environmentally conscious and sustainable tourism in natural and protected areas. At the heart of this transition lie: policy, technological and non-technological innovation, and measures bringing about behavioural change in tourists.

The interactive session organised by the ERRIN Tourism WG will focus on these three components. After the institutional introduction, setting the scene at the European policy level, the regional good practices will span from inclusive policy making to concrete actions, whereby quadruple-helix actors will present what incentives can trigger positive behavioural change.

For further information, go here.

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Boosting Innovation for EU Industry

The Slovenian Business & Research Association and the European Commission, DG Research and Innovation coorganised Boosting Innovation for EU Industry conference, which took place in Ljubljana, Slovenia on the 3 April 2019! Discussions focused on future actions targeting a pan-European industrial ecosystem. The main objective of the conference was to present different EU national and regional initiatives to support innovation, access to industrial infrastructure and financial support to boost innovation beyond 2020.

The conference showcased several excellent examples of innovation support with special emphasis on Slovenia and South East Europe, provided feedback to high level EU representatives and discussed the needs of the local industry.

For further information concerning the programme, presentations and photos, go here.

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New Year Reception

As the end of 2018 approaches, the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) would like to take this opportunity to wish you Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year 2019! More importantly, SBRA would like to thank you all for your support throughout the year!

To mark the beginning of an even better year, we have the pleasure of inviting you to a New Year Reception that will take place on Thursday, 24 January 2019.

For further information, including the programme and registration, click here.

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The Value of Social Science
& Humanities in Europe

6 December 2018
Rue du Commerce 44, 1000 Brussels
Permanent Representation of Republic of Slovenia to the EU

The long term objective of the conference and efforts of the organisers was to ensure that social sciences and humanities (SSH) receive their proper recognition in academia and society. Too often governments, European policymakers and research community refer approvingly to the undoubted contributions made by natural sciences, engineering and technology to wealth generation, economic prosperity, knowledge transfer, innovation, and the development of new businesses, products and services, while failing to acknowledge the equally important contributions made by SSH. Furthermore, SSH research is neglected and poorly utilized in Horizon 2020 (even in SC6) as evidenced by several reports. However, it is obvious that society’s most pressing challenges can be solved only by the successful interplay of all fields.

To see the full programme, presentations and photographs please click here.

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EWRC 2018 Workshop:
Circular Economy for Sustainable Development

The circular economy could save life on Earth, starting with our cities.

Our workshop "Circular economy for sustainable development" of cities and regions focused on capacity building and the exchange of experience and good practices regarding specific regional and city models, as well as practices in promoting and realising the transition to a circular economy. The main elements and approaches of the sustainable development and circular economy concepts within cities and regions were presented, debated and promoted.

Imagine a future where human prosperity does not mean sacrificing nature.

Programme, photos and presentations are available here.

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Spreading Excellence & Widening Participation
of Horizon Europe

Tuesday, 4 September 2018

IGLO Core: 10:00 - 11:30 (only IGLO members)
IGLO Open: 11:30 - 13:00 (wider public)

Permanent Representation of Slovenia to the EU, Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

The event will cover topics related to strengthening the European Research Area, specifically sharing excellence to fully harness the potential in less R&I performing countries (Teaming, Twinning, ERA Chairs). Speakers from the European Commission, University of Ljubljana, as well as University of Primorska will be present.

Please keep in mind, for non-IGLO members, the IGLO Open event begins at 11:30.

To register, please click here.

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11th International Technology Transfer Conference

8 - 12 October 2018  I  Ljubljana, Slovenia

Between 8th and 12th of October, Center for Technology Transfer and Innovation at the Jožef Stefan Institute organizes the 11th International Technology Transfer Converence in collaboration with the International multiconference Information Society (IS2018).

Pre-scheduled R2B (Research-to-Business) meetings will take place between 8th and 10th of October 2018 at Jozef Stefan Institute in the framework of 11th International Technology Transfer Conference.

This year’s conference will tackle the following issues:

• How can KET Technology Centers (KET TCs) help modernising Europe’s industrial base, to shift to a greener economy, and drive the development of entirely new industries?
• How can KET TCs help bridge the European ‘Valley of Death’?
• How to increase KETs-related manufacturing in the EU and how KET TCs and industry can collaborate better to increase the exploitation of the patents inside EU?

For further information, programme and registration - click here!

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Transforming Consumer and Health-Oriented Society
through Science & Innovation

20 June 2018  I  10:00 - 14:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia, Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

The objective of the conference is to present future trends in the innovation in healthcare sector with the focus on benefits for consumers and society and the importance of the cooperation between public and private research. Renowned experts from business, European health associations, the European Commission will present innovation funding in EU research and innovation funding programmes; importance of disruptive innovation in the healthcare sector; and much more.

For more information regarding the programme and registration, go here.

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Transport & Logistics Conference 2018

22 March 2018  I  09:30 - 16:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia, Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

The conference will cover important subjects such as e-mobility, digitalization of transport and logistics, decarbonising the European transport sector, as well as touch upon 'Europe on the Move', a wide-ranging set of initiatives.The event will bring together high-level speakers from the  European Commission, European Investment Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, International Association of Public Transport, Voice of European Railways, among others.

For more information regarding the programme and registration, go here.

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EU Funding for Defence & Security

8 March 2018  I 10:00 – 15:00
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia, Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

The objective of the conference is to present the EU defence policy and the landscape of different EU funding opportunities for defence industry and research. The conference will focus on the European Defence Fund,  which includes a "research window" to fund collaborative research in innovative defence technologies in the amount of EUR 90 million until 2020 and 500 million EUR per year post 2020 and a "capability window" which would act as a financial tool allowing participating Member States to purchase certain assets together to reduce their costs. This window should be able to mobilise about 5 billion EUR per year.

For more information and registration, please click here.

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Europa Unfinished Masterpiece

30 May 2017   I   17:00
Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

Miha Pogačnik, violinist, visionary and cultural ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia, alongside the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia and the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), have the pleasure to invite you to a special event to experience the musical strategy for development of polyphonic (“symphonic”) European identity!

Miha Pogačnik will demonstrate with his violin the method of transferring formative forces of masterpiece to the field of business and politics, igniting idealism urgently needed for EU identity to emerge!

For more information and registration, please click here.

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Paramount Questions & Issues of Horizon 2020
and the upcoming FP9

12 April 2017
European Parliament, Brussels
Room ASP 3H1

On the 12th of April 2017, the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) organized a half day (09:00-11:30) conference – alongside University of Ljubljana – on the Paramount Questions and Issues of Horizon 2020 and the upcoming FP9 at the premises of the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium.

Much to our delight and honor, four major European Parliament Political Groups (S&D, EPP, Greens/EFA, ALDE) gave their full support to the event.

For further information concerning the programme, presentations and the photos taken during at the event, please click here!

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Advanced Materials in Circular Economy

29 March 2017 (10:00 - 13:00)
Permanent Representation of Slovenia to the EU
Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

The National Institute of Chemistry of Slovenia and the Slovenian Business & Research Assocation (SBRA) organised the Advanced Materials in Circular Economy conference on the 29 March 2017. Below you can find a link the programme, presentations and photos taken at the event.

Programme, photos and presentations are available here.

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TERAN
The Tale of Karst, A Story of the Future

Tuesday, 28 February 2017 (18:00 - 20:00)
Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU,
Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

The Permanent Representative of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU Ambassador Janez Lenarčič and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Food of the Republic of Slovenia Dejan Židan together with the Civil Initiative for Safeguarding the Protection of the Teran Wine Marjan Colja, and the President of the Slovenian Business & Research Association, Brussels prof. Dr. Draško Veselinovič coorganised the event and round table discussion on the Teran Wine - Value of the Protected Designation of Origin.

For a more detailed programme, photos and list of speakers, click here!

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Prof. Dr. Jean-Pierre Bourguignon to visit
the University of Primorska

It is our absolute pleasure to invite you to the lecture Modern Geometry, from Local to Global, from Smooth to Rough, from Static to Dynamic, which will take place on Thursday, 1 December 2016. The first European Congress of Mathematics was held in the Sorbonne (Paris), July 6-10, 1992. It was organised by the Société Mathématique de France (SMF) when professor Bourguignon was its president and the Société Mathématiques Appliquées et Industrielles (SMAI) under the auspices of the European Mathematical Society. There were about 1300 participants coming from 58 countries. 8th ECM will be held in Congress center Bernardin, Portorož organized by the University of Primorska in collaboration with other research institutions. The lecture is organised by the University of Primorska and the Slovenian Business & Research Association, Brussels.

Please feel free to download the full programme here.

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Role of Regions & Cities in transition to
Circular Economy

SBRA, alongside Maribor and regional partners (Cankaya Municipality, Nevarre, Central Denmark, CCDRC, ACRplus) organised the official European Week of Regions and Cities workshop, which took place on 12 October 2016 in Brussels. The workshop was dedicated to circular economy. Former EU Commissioner Dr. Janez Potočnik gave the keynote speech. The debate at the workshop raised the discussion on concrete regional models and practices in promoting the transition to circular economy that should cover the full lifecycle: from production and consumption of waste, to waste management and the market for secondary raw materials.

Presentations are available here:

• Janez Potočnik - Regions and Cities for Circular Economy
• Alper Tasdelen - Cankaya Municiaplity Presentation
• Ana Abrunhosa - Circular Economy in Centro PT
• Igor Kos - WCycle
• Martin Thim - Aarhus Sustainability Model
• Montse Guerrero and Laura Alba - Circular Economy: A bottom-up approach
• Philippe Micheaux Naudet - Supporting transition to circular economy

All photos can be found here.

Workshop programme is available here.

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Maribor in Brussels:
Styrian wine & culinary delicacies

It is our great pleasure to invite you to attend our social event and indulge your senses on an exquisite election of Styrian wines and local culinary delicacies!

We are organizing the event in cooperation with the City of Maribor, which will take place on the 12 October 2016 at 15:00 till 17:00 at the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU (Rue de Commerce 44, Brussels).

To attend the event, please register here – places are limited, so be sure to sign up quickly!  

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Smart Mobility 2020:
Towards intelligent and sustainable urban transport in Europe

On behalf of the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) and the UITP, the International Association of Public Transport,we would like to kindly invite you for a high-level international conference in Ljubljana on 11 October 2016 entitled “Smart Mobility 2020: Towards intelligent and sustainable urban transport in Europe”. The event is being organized together with the Ljubljana City Council and the local public transport operator LPP and will happen in the framework of Ljubljana 2016 European Green Capital. The event is held under the patronage of the SBRA, the Urban Planning Institute of the Republic of Slovenia (UIRS) and the University of Ljubljana - Faculty of Maritime Studies and Transportation. All the information and the registration page can be found on the event website here.

The seminar will discuss the state-of-the-art of public transport in the Central Eastern Europe region, focusing on the current developments in the sector and the impact of EU legislation and the structural funds on mobility and smart city projects. There will be also a strong emphasis placed on latest environmental and technological trends underpinning mobility. We also tend to discuss operational and policy outlooks until and beyond 2020, when the EU structural funds streaming into CEE will slowly start to drain.

We strongly hope you will participate in the event and join us in discussions and networking with top mobility stakeholders from throughout Europe. Also, we will be pleased to host you at a bike city tour organized the day before on October 10 in the afternoon and kindly supported by the Ljubljana Municipality.

Please don’t hesitate to contact bostjan.sinkovec@sbra.be ifl you need any additional information.

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President of the European Research Council in Slovenia

On 5 - 7 June 2016, the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA), Brussels and the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC), organized the visit of Prof. Dr. Jean-Pierre Bourguignon – the President of the European Research Council (ERC) – and his colleagues from the ERC to Slovenia. The visit coincided with the 70th anniversary of the National Institute of Chemistry. It also marked the very first time that the president ERC was in Slovenia; ERC is one of the most important European scientific institutions, which annually distributes app. 2 billion Euros for excellence in science and research. The ERC advanced grant scheme targets researchers who have already established themselves as top independent research leaders; of which Slovenia has three ERC grantees. Additionally, two Slovenian researchers have also been successful abroad.

On Sunday, 5 June 2016, prior to the conference, the ERC met with the Minister of Science, Education and Sports Dr. Maja Makovec Brenčič, alongside Minister of Finance Dr. Dušan Mramor; Minister Minister for Economic Development and Technology dr. Zdravko Počivalšek; Minister responsible for Development, Strategic Projects and Cohesion Alenka Smerkolj; and the director of Slovenian Research Agency, dr. József Györkös.

On Monday, 6 June 2016, the morning session of the programme consisted of various activities at the National Institute of Chemistry, led by Dr. Anderluh, its director. At 10.00, the Slovenian Prime Minister Dr. Miro Cerar welcomed the ERC delegation, participants at the NIC, as well as the ERC grantees. Later, at 12.15 a press conference was moderated by the President of the Management Board of the Slovenian Business & Research Association, Brussels Dr. Draško Veselinovič, and included the guest of honor Prof. Dr. Jean-Pierre Bourguignon, the president of ERC, Minister of Science, Education and Sports Dr. Maja Makovec Brenčič, and Prof. Dr. Gregor Anderluh, NIC director.

Later in the afternoon, the ERC paid a two hour visit to the Jožef Stefan Institute, under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Jadran Lenarčič. There the ERC had the opportunity to visit state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories. Slovenian ERC grantees got the opportunity to personally meet the ERC delegation.

Lastly, a final stop was made at the University of Ljubljana, kindly hosted by the rector of the university, Prof. Dr. Ivan Svetlik. The session included a roundtable discussion on excellence in science, as well as presentations from ERC President; and Prof. Dr. Kondorosi from ERC on science problematics of EU-13 in connection with the so-called widening, of which she is an expert of.

Please feel free to download the official programme here.

Official press release is available here.

PRESENTATION AVAILBLE HERE: Prof. Dr. Jean-Pierre BOURGUIGNON - Challenges and Opportunities for Research in Europe: ERC Perspectives

Speech of Prof. Dr. Jean-Pierre Bourguignon speech available here.

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Transport & Logistics
Conference 2016

SBRA organized the Transport & Logistics Conference 2016 on 3 March 2016 at the premises of the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU (Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels).

European Commissioner for Mobility and Transport Ms. Violeta Bulc was the keynote speaker, alongside Dr. Peter Gašperšič, the Slovenian Minister of Infrastructure. The conference included a host of experts representing some of the industry's leading voices. Although the event covered the wider EU agenda on transport and logistics, a special emphasis on the Central European region was given. 

You're invited to download the Conference Conclusions by clicking here.

For the full list of speakers, take a look at the conference programme by clicking here.

Photos from the conference have been uploaded to our official Facebook page - take a look here.

Presentations:

• Peter Gašperšič - Slovenia, its geo-strategic position and main infrastructure investments
• Alain Flausch - Changing Mobility Landscape in Central & Eastern Europe
• Libor Lochman - Railway as the most reliable, clean and safe transport in the region
• Stephane Ouaki - Overall EU Funding Policy for Transport Infrastructure
• Alberto Cozzi - ACROSSEE
• Marcial Bustinduy Navas - Financing efficient and sustainable transport networks
• Peter Verlic - South East Europe Strategic Alliance for Rail Innovation
• Sebastjan Šik - Connecting Central Europe with the Sea
• Sandra Sodini - Logistic Platform
• Marko Gucek - Smart demand responsive transportation in the digital single market

CIMULACT
Building Visions for Europe

The Slovenian Business & Research Association is one of 24 partners in the EU project CIMULACT. CIMULACT – which stands for Citizen and Multi-Actor Consultation on Horizon 2020 – will engage citizens, along with a variety of other actors, in redefining the European research and innovation agenda and thereby make it relevant and accountable to society. The Kick Off meeting was held in Copenhagen on 29 September – 2 October and marked the official start of the CIMULACT project.

For more, visit the official webpage of CIMULACT

Interactive Introduction to the 
24alife Mobile Health Application

Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels
Monday, 9 November 2015
12:30-14:00 

We cordially invite you to join us on the 9th of November at 12:30 to learn more about 24alife, an innovative mobile health application developed by Development Centre RC IKTS Žalec.

The workshop will be held at the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the EU (Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels), hosted by the Slovenian Business & Research Association. After the interactive presentation of the 24alife mobile application, a light networking lunch will follow.

The workshop is intended for a small group of participants to test the mobile application. The 24alife team will brief participants on how to recognize and evaluate work-related stress, suggest coping methods and use of relaxation strategies. The interactive introduction to the 24alife mobile application will also encourage participants to partake in light exercise (however, no sportswear is required!). Being one of the first in the world, 24alife combines knowledge of top Slovenian experts from medicine, psychology, sports and nutrition in one.

Prior to the workshop, participants are encouraged to download the mobile application (available for smartphones and tablets). Please use either of the two following links depending on your phone/software: Android users & Apple users.

If you’re interested to join, we kindly ask that you RSVP as soon as possible by sending an email or calling:

Nina Vertot
Office Manager
nina.vertot@sbra.be
tel: +32 2 645 19 10 / fax: +32 2 645 19 17

If you should require any further information, including the installation of the mobile application, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We look forward to seeing you!

Slovenian Business & Research Association co-organizes workshop in the European Parliament

On 30 June, a roundtable workshop on the “Economics of Prevention and Improved Public Health” was co-organized by the Slovenian Business & Research Association (SBRA) and the Knowledge Economy Network (KEN), and hosted by MEP Alojz Peterle in the European Parliament. Over 40 participants attended the event, they were joined by several high profile MEPs, including former president of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek, Heinz K. Becker, Victor Negrescuand Slovenia's first democratically elected president Alojz Peterle. During the workshop, trends and challenges in forming public health were discussed. The goal was to create a platform for EU politics, which will follow the goals of the European health strategy. 

The EU Health Strategy “Together for Health” complements the Europe 2020 strategy and represents the third European Union’s health program since 2014. The first among the four key points is promoting health, disease prevention and creating a more stimulating environment for a healthy lifestyle. At the same time caring for health is a part of this year’s “European Year for Development”. The European 2020 strategy and the Lisbon treaty oblige European institutions and Member States to protect the individual’s health when adopting EU policies. A healthy population is a necessary prerequisite for a successful, sustainable and inclusive economy.

Along with other examples of good practices, the Slovenian solution24alife - an innovative mobile health application developed by SBRA member Development Centre RC IKTS Žalec - was presented. Developed in Slovenia, 24alife is designed with the help of Slovenian experts together with colleagues from abroad. 24alife is a solution that guides the user towards a healthier lifestyle. It helps achieve goals in fields of: sports, balanced nutrition, general health and personal hardiness. 24alife is available free as a mobile application and internet portal accessible at www.24alife.com. Being one of the first in the world they combine knowledge of experts from medicine, psychology, sports and nutrition in one project and assure a better quality of life for the user.

Alojz Peterle, MEP and co-chair to the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) stated: “Health is one of the most important values of European citizens, who also expect more from the European Union in this area. A healthy lifestyle is primarily a responsibility of every individual, but he or she also needs a supportive environment. Responsible and healthy living of individuals should be rewarded, and vice versa.  Company management also share in responsibility for health of their workers and employees, particularly to reduce stress levels.  Also during this term I strive for better health in the European Union and I welcome Slovenian good practice cases for the prevention and healthy lifestyle, which will help us shape European policies for public health”.

President of the Slovenian Business & Research Association, Prof. Dr. Draško Veselinovič wholeheartedly agreed, and reiterated that our influence over quality and duration of life has never been as big as today, but that we are using this unprecedented potential insufficiently and ineffectively, making the current system financially unsustainable.  

Unique Brainstorming Event: Slovenian Innovation Hub

Rue du Commerce 44, Brussels

Tuesday, 26 May 2015

On the 26th of May 2015, the Slovenian Business & Research Association and the University of Ljubljana held a unique brainstorming event at the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Slovenia to the European Union to mark the special occasion of the inauguration of the Slovenian Innovation Hub (SIH). 

SIH will actively encourage knowledge-based development in fields where Slovenia has comparative and competitive advantages. To achieve this, the Hub will provide support to develop connections between Slovenia’s research excellence and the economy with the goal of diversifying into new technologies, services and commercially successful products and consequently creating new high value-added jobs, growth and development.

To ensure the success of the Hub’s primary mission - establishing and promoting connections between various Slovenian stakeholders - projects will be organized as separate legal entities to ensure their optimal implementation. These projects will be coordinated with the help of the Hub, an office located at the University of Ljubljana.

Over 40 high profile participants attended the brainstorming event, which discussed new systemic and organizational solutions for better valorization of knowledge and commercialization of research outcomes; as well as necessary steps needed to create a stimulating business and research environment in order to attract European and international investors to Slovenia.

• Event Conclusions
• List of Participants
• Presentation: Research and Innovation Funding in Slovenia
• Presentation: Innovation for Growth through Synergies

We are pleased to invite you to the opening of the exhibition

Service and information design in the fields of health care and sustainable transport

that will take place on Thursday, September 26 at 19.30, at the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in the Kingdom of Belgium, Rue du commerce 44, 1000 Brussels.

The exhibition is organised by the Regional Development Agency of the Ljubljana Urban Region within the framework of the Regional Creative Economy Centre and the Design Days 2013.

The event will display concepts of innovative services developed at the Ljubljana Creative Camp. The international event was organised earlier this year within the framework of European project Creative Companies in Alpine Space (CCAlps). The power of the exhibited concepts stems from the methodology of service and information design, namely the interdisciplinary co-creation. The latter links the efforts of young design professionals, design students, creative individuals with different educational backgrounds and stakeholders in both studied areas (health and sustainable transport).

The event will feature a relaxed atmosphere and refreshments.

The invitation and additional information are attached.

We kindly ask for advance notices at: nina.vertot@sbra.be, by Thursday, September 19, 2013.