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REGIOSTARS
Awards 2016
Presentation
of the finalists
#EUinmyRegion
Innovative
EU-funded projects
Regional and
Urban Policy
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Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2016
Print version Online version
ISBN 978-92-79-60662-5 ISBN 978-92-79-60663-2
doi:10.2776/962625 doi:10.2776/749473
KN-AI-16-001-EN-C KN-AI-16-001-EN-N
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REGIOSTARS
Awards 2016
Presentation
of the finalists
#EUinmyRegion
Innovative
EU-funded projects
CONTENTS FOREWORD CORINA CREŢU 4 FOREWORD LAMBERT VAN NISTELROOIJ 5 JURY MEMBERS 6 CATEGORIES 8 REGIOSTARS FINALISTS 9 01 SMART GROWTH 11 BRIDGE TO MED-TECH SUCCESS 12 A CURE FOR THE MEDICAL RESEARCH-TO-MARKET GAP 14 ENRICHED NETWORK CROSSES MORE THAN BORDERS 16 A CLEAN SWEEP FOR TECH GROWTH IN DENMARK 18 UPDATING THE ‘MADE IN ITALY’ BRAND FOR A GLOBAL MARKET 20 02 SUSTAINABLE GROWTH 23 BRUSSELS GREENBIZZ: A GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS INCUBATOR 24 CENTRO BIO: BIO-BASED GROWTH FOR RURAL ECONOMIES 26 WEALTH FROM WASTE IN NORTHERN AND ARCTIC MARINE REGIONS 28 EXTRACTING VALUE-ADDED INGREDIENTS FROM WINE WASTE 30 REGIONAL COOPERATION DRIVES SUSTAINABLE WASTE SOLUTION 32
03 INCLUSIVE GROWTH 35 HELPING THE SOCIAL ECONOMY REACH ITS FULL POTENTIAL 36 OPENING MINDS AND IMPROVING LIVES IN THE BORDER REGION BETWEEN ITALY AND AUSTRIA 38 EUREGIO BARRIEREFREI: A TRAVEL WEBSITE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN GERMANY AND AUSTRIA 40 WORKING TOGETHER TO INCREASE EMPLOYABILITY 42 04 CITYSTAR 45 RUHR VALLEY ON THE RIGHT PATH TO GREENER MOBILITY 46 FOODMET - COVERED MARKET AT THE ABATTOIRS DE CUREGHEM 48 INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT TOOLS GIVE WROCŁAW A NEW LEASE OF LIFE 50 CITIZEN-LED REGENERATION BENEFITS RESIDENTS OF GDAŃSK 52 URBAN BENEFITS OF EFFICIENT STOCK DISTRIBUTION 54 05 EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT 57 A COLLECTIVE APPROACH TO TRANSPARENCY 58 ROCKING EUROPEAN SOCIAL POLICY 60 A SIMPLER APPROACH TO MANAGING R&D FUNDING 62 OPEN INNOVATION TOOL PUTS CITIZENS IN THE DRIVING SEAT 64
FOREWORD
CORINA CREŢU
Dear reader,
I’m happy to introduce the 23 projects selected as RegioStars Awards
finalists for the 2016 edition of the competition.
While discovering these finalists, it was a true pleasure for me to wit-
ness the quality, diversity and innovative character of the proposed
projects. These inspiring EU-funded projects are prime examples which
showcase the important contribution that EU Cohesion Policy has made
in support of the Commission’s political priorities for 2014-2020. They
are real-life testimonies to the fact that across Europe Cohesion Policy
is a motor for investment, sustainable economic growth, jobs and ulti-
mately, improving life for 500 million European citizens.
We hope that, by putting the spotlight on these great projects, other regions and cities will be
inspired to reflect on the diverse kind of investments that can be made in the fields of smart,
sustainable and inclusive growth, as well as urban development. This year, for the first time,
a category of the RegioStars Awards has also been dedicated to highlighting initiatives contrib-
uting to better management of EU Cohesion funds. Being a RegioStars Awards finalist is not
only a quality label designating an innovative project, it is also an international recognition of
regions and cities for their innovative and efficient approach to using EU funds.
For this, I would like to thank the RegioStars specialist jury, composed of practitioners and aca-
demics in their respective fields, as well as jury president MEP Lambert van Nistelrooij. Their
expertise and dedication made it possible to select top quality finalist projects out of the 104
applications received.
The winners of the RegioStars Awards will be announced on October 11th 2016, during the
yearly award ceremony in Brussels.
In the meantime, I would like to congratulate all the finalists, and all the applicants, for demon-
strating how much can be achieved with EU funding.
Corina Creţu,
EU Commissioner for Regional Policy
FOREWORDS 4-5
FOREWORD
LAMBERT VAN NISTELROOIJ
Dear reader,
I was pleased to accept the invitation of Commissioner Creţu to preside
over the RegioStars Awards jury for the second consecutive year.
More than ever European citizens look to the European Union for concrete
added value in their regions and cities. As politicians, it is not only our
duty to represent citizens, but also to engage with our constituencies in
a modernised communication on European initiatives and contribute to
their day-to-day lives. Europe has splendid opportunities to show the
added value in Cohesion Policy.
In this brochure you will find descriptions of the 23 finalists that have been selected by the
expert jury and which highlight how EU funds support innovative and inspiring projects. These
creative projects address some of Europe’s main challenges through targeted support for SMEs,
social inclusion strategies, the circular economy and urban development. I was particularly
happy to learn that, this year, a new category had been introduced which focuses specifically
on how EU funds can be managed better in the Member States.
I want to thank the jury members for bringing their expertise to the table throughout the
in-depth discussions which ultimately led to the selection of these 23 finalists. I would also like
to thank all the applicants and the selected finalists for taking part in the competition and for
helping us to showcase the best of what EU Cohesion Policy has to offer.
I hope to meet you all
Lambert van Nistelrooij
Member of the European Parliament
JURY MEMBERS
Lambert
van Nistelrooij
Member of the
European Parliament
President of the Jury
SMART GROWTH
Raquel Agnė Paliokaitė
Ortega-Argilés Managing Partner and
Professor of Director of Visionary
Regional Economic Analytics Lithuania, a
Development at private research centre
Birmingham Business focused on education,
School, the University R&D and innovation
of Birmingham systems and policies
SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
Vanya Veras Karel Van Acker
Secretary General Professor in
of Municipal Waste Sustainable Materials
Europe Management and
Coordinator of the
KU Leuven Materials
Research Centre,
Belgium
JURY MEMBERS 6-7
INCLUSIVE GROWTH
Gábor Bernáth Eberhard Lueder
Researcher at Head of Social
Hungarian Academy of Inclusion at the Red
Sciences – Institute for Cross EU Office in
Sociology Brussels
CITYSTAR
Nava Hinrichs Ania Rok
Managing Director at Governance & Social
The Hague Process Innovation Coordinator
on Refugees and at ICLEI – Local
Migration Governments for
Sustainability, URBACT
Programme Expert
EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT
Jiri Blazek John Bachtler
Associate Professor in Professor of
Regional Development European Policy
at the Department of Studies and Director
Social Geography and of the European
Regional Development, Policies Research
Faculty of Sciences, Centre, University of
Charles University in Strathclyde, Glasgow
Prague
CATEGORIES This year, managing authorities submitted projects in five award categories. SMART GROWTH: emerging opportunities in the global economy 11 Knowledge-driven industrial transformation is at the heart of smart specialisation. EU regions and governments are revamping their research and innovation strategies in order to identify unique, competitive advantages based on new combinations of their industrial and scientific strengths. SUSTAINABLE GROWTH: circular economy 23 The transition towards a circular economy aims to preserve and maintain the value of products and resources in the economy for as long as possible, while minimising waste and the use of non-renewable resources. INCLUSIVE GROWTH: integrated living – building inclusive and non-segregated communities 35 Sustainable responses are needed to tackle the multidimensional aspects of social exclusion. An integrated approach combines efforts across different sectors, including education, employ- ment, housing, health and social services. CITYSTAR: innovative solutions for sustainable urban development 45 Cities need innovative solutions to tackle a variety of complex challenges, such as an ageing and a more diverse population, a changing relationship with citizens, the effects of climate change, an economy that needs new skills, and persistent pockets of poverty. EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT: making a difference by managing differently 57 Public services need the administrative capacity to manage policies and funds, including Euro- pean Structural and Investment Funds, efficiently and effectively so as to deliver faster and simpler services to citizens and businesses.
CATEGORIES – REGIOSTARS FINALISTS 8-9
REGIOSTARS
FINALISTS 2016
Bridge
p. 12
Cleantech
p. 18
Circular
Ocean InfectoGnostics
p. 28 p. 14
Unit Cost Revitalisation
for R&D Gdańsk
p. 62 p. 52
Crossroads
p. 16
Alley of Fireflies
Foodmet Change
p. 48 p. 58
p. 46
Intelligent
Greenbizz Transport System
p. 24 p. 50
Proekob
Urban p. 32
Distribution
Center
p. 54 ASEDP
p. 36
Centro Bio
p. 26 EURegio
Barrierefrei
p. 40
Diversity4Kids
p. 38
Open
Innovation
p. 64
Bioactive
Compounds
p. 30
Vives European
Emplea Social Sound
p. 42 p. 60 Mapping
Basilicata
p. 20SMART GROWTH
Emerging opportunities in the
global economyBRIDGE TO
MED-TECH SUCCESS
Smart support mechanisms help small but growing Swedish med-tech
companies sell abroad and gain a foothold in new, profitable markets.
Small beginnings can lead to great things. For Swedish economy. Bridge provides an added
medical technology (med-tech) SMEs, suc- boost to SMEs with international potential,
cessful steps into foreign markets can give helping them identify and work closely with
their niche products access to enough cus- new customers, find partners, navigate for-
tomers for commercial success. eign regulations, and ultimately to grow more
quickly into new markets.
The Sahlgrenska Science Park in West Sweden
has developed a programme – called Bridge Promising pilot
– which supports local med-tech compa- The programme has trialled support for
nies’ international growth strategies. Funded 27 med-tech business ideas and start-ups,
by almost EUR 400 000 from the European chosen by an expert panel. It focused on
Regional Development Fund, the programme the United Kingdom as its target market – a
aims to strengthen Sweden’s healthcare SME large enough country for small companies to
sector and expand medical innovation. achieve profitable sales and one which invests
strongly in life sciences. From the UK perspec-
West Sweden already excels in both research tive, the initiative gives access to innovations
and innovation in life sciences. Exports from that can enhance healthcare or cut costs in
the sector are already an important part of the the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). ThereSMART GROWTH – Emerging opportunities in the global economy 12-13
The goal is to develop a programme so attractive
that the companies themselves pay the cost.
It promises to be a very cost-effective method for
improving smart and sustainable growth in the
Swedish med-tech industry.
Helena Starfelt, Head of unit,
Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth
Project: Bridge
Region: Västsverige (Sweden)
Programme: West Sweden
Duration: 01/07/2012-31/12/2014
Total budget: EUR 996 079 (including
EUR 398 315 European funding, ERDF)
Website: www.sahlgrenskasciencepark.se
Business boost
Sahlgrenska Science Park is now an estab-
are practical advantages on both sides, too lished gateway to Swedish innovation for the
– many Swedes speak English, while a short NHS. It has also contributed to high-level dis-
sea crossing and similar cultures connect the cussions on how the British healthcare sector
two countries. can improve its innovation support.
In close cooperation with Business Sweden, UK The benefits are set to spread to more SMEs.
Trade & Investment and the NHS, Sahlgren- The Science Park continues to back start-
ska Science Park’s programme defined entry ups’ internationalisation, while Bridge has
points into Britain for the Swedish companies, increased available funds for SMEs from
along with a detailed roadmap into the Brit- the ERDF, and Swedish regional and national
ish healthcare market. It also provided intro- agencies. A national ERDF-funded follow-up
ductions to British contacts from a network programme – Bridge UK – is now availa-
of research organisations, hospitals, venture ble, helping med-tech SMEs across Sweden
capital providers and incubators in the UK. expand abroad.A CURE FOR THE MEDICAL
RESEARCH-TO-MARKET GAP
To tighten up the medical value chain, the EU-funded InfectoGnostics
Research Campus Jena project brings together science, industry and clinics in
Germany’s Thuringia region. The result is more devices for diagnostic testing
being brought to market quicker.
The key to stopping the spread of new dis- with clinicians and pharmaceutical and med-
eases is a fast and reliable diagnosis and ical companies. This networking has speeded
quick understanding of their possible resist- up the development of rapid, point-to-care
ance to current antibiotics. Unfortunately, this devices for diagnostic testing.
process is too often derailed by a gap between
what’s happening in the lab and what’s being Collaborative care
brought onto the market. The Thuringia Region’s InfectoGnostic Research
Campus is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts
The ERDF-funded InfectoGnostics Research numerous photonic technologies, an array
Campus JENA project has a cure. of laboratories and a bio bank. It provides
researchers with access to clinical samples.
Located at the Centre for Applied Research Working together as a public-private partner-
in Jena, InfectoGnostics is serving as a hub ship, over 25 companies are collaborating with
for fast translational science: technologists 14 leading research institutions through the
and scientists who typically work isolated Campus. Most are SMEs based in Germany’s
in a university lab are now working directly Thuringia region. Via this cooperative method,SMART GROWTH – Emerging opportunities in the global economy 14-15
Whether regarding technological or organisational aspects,
InfectoGnostics is an innovative project on both counts.
Technologically, the combination of photonic technology with
molecular techniques and microfluidic-based sample preparation
provides a basis for fast and safe diagnostics with systems that
can be used on-site. Organisationally, InfectoGnostics provides a
governance that equally considers the interests of all stakeholders.
Prof. Dr Jürgen Popp,
Project: InfectoGnostics Research Campus InfectoGnostics Spokesperson
Jena – a partnership for infection diagnostics
Region: Thüringen (Germany)
Programme: Thüringen
Duration: 01/01/2013-29/02/2020
The project has also successfully launched
Total budget: EUR 27 101 912 (including two start-up companies – with more to come
EUR 7 902 767 European funding, ERDF) – along with a marketable product capable
Website: www.infectognostics.de of detecting enzymes that mediate bacterial
resistance to antibiotics.
Long-term benefits
participants are better able to leverage the By proving that gaps in the medical value
synergies and innovative specialisations of the chain can only be overcome by direct pub-
group and can also make more efficient use of lic-private partnerships, the InfectoGnostic
the public funds available through the Centre. Research Centre has established itself as
the go-to place where researchers from var-
Efforts have focused on the creation of rapid, ious disciplines and organisations can safely
portable and non-invasive point-of-care exchange ideas and work together.
devices for the diagnosis of such infections
as pneumonia and the identification of their In addition to its success in developing new
resistance to antibiotic therapy. The campus diagnostic devices, the project has success-
has already assembled an impressive port- fully established long-term partnerships
folio of technologies for detecting infectious between researchers, clinicians and compa-
agents and profiling their antibiotic resist- nies – guaranteeing that the InfectoGnostics
ance, with this information serving as the Research Campus Jena project will continue
foundation for developing new devices. to benefit medicine well into the future.ENRICHED NETWORK CROSSES
MORE THAN BORDERS
An “unconventional” but highly successful project, focusing on five “crossroad
technologies”, has provided a boost to companies, institutes, researchers and
the economy as a whole in the cross-border area between Flanders (Belgium)
and the Netherlands.
Innovation and new technologies are proven advantage over other regions. This has trans-
economic drivers. The growth of tech incuba- lated into a dividend for the regional econ-
tors across Europe is a case in point. The Cross- omy, generating new jobs for students who
Roads project, which received EUR 3 724 599 participated in the project as well as a raft of
through the European Regional Development new technologies.
Fund, brought together research centres, insti-
tutes and tech companies to explore so-called Putting their back into it
crossroad technologies which have potential Through clever organisational structures
in different sectors. These include remote encouraging more SMEs to get involved,
diagnostics, embedded vision, nanomaterials, CrossRoads has achieved its goal of boost-
surface finishing, and inkjet technology. ing innovation in emerging technologies in
the cross-border region. It has managed
As an early-mover in this kind of high-tech 25 cross-border innovation projects, 13 mar-
network, which promotes cross-over innova- ket feasibility studies and 40 experiments
tions, CrossRoads has fostered a distinct local involving 150 companies.SMART GROWTH – Emerging opportunities in the global economy 16-17
The project created a lasting network of
connections. Forging these connections is of
course the most important task of the Interreg
programme and projects like CrossRoads are a
great way of reaching this goal.
Project: CrossRoads Bram de Kort, Head of JS Interreg
Flanders-The Netherlands
Regions: Prov. Antwerpen,
Prov. Vlaams-Brabant, Prov. Limburg,
Prov. Oost-Vlaanderen,
Prov. West-Vlaanderen (Belgium); Noord-
Brabant, Limburg, Zeeland (Netherlands)
Programme: Belgium - Netherlands
Duration: 01/07/2010-31/12/2014
Total budget: EUR 9 233 813 (including
EUR 3 724 599 European funding, ERDF)
Website: www.crossroadsproject.eu have earmarked EUR 4 500 000 to start clin-
ical tests on the material within three years.
Innovations range from new techniques, A fruitful mashup
products, processes and technologies to new CrossRoads has acted as an intermediary
multidisciplinary ways of problem-solving. between Interreg and the various SMEs and
And the focus on cross-fertilisation between education facilities that participated. It is a
the five targeted technologies is, in itself, benchmark on how to bring smaller compa-
considered an innovation, one which has nies into large projects smoothly. The pro-
been successful in bringing businesses from gramme’s flexibility – allowing new partners
different sectors together to create lasting to join mid-way through projects – made it
cross-border links and organisational struc- easier to encourage small firms to take part,
tures. This strengthened network is expected especially in piloting and rolling out new prod-
to foster even more innovations in the future. ucts resulting from this mashup of organisa-
tions and technologies.
One example of CrossRoads’ achievements is
the ‘Spinal’ sub-project that developed a pro- An internal survey of project partners estab-
totype biocompatible material, called “metal lish beyond doubt the benefit of this approach
dross”, which can replace the metal screws and the positive impacts it has had, especially
currently used in spinal surgery. Investors in terms of cross-border collaboration.A CLEAN SWEEP FOR TECH
GROWTH IN DENMARK
Researchers, businesses and public bodies in Denmark develop a world-leading
clean technology cluster of businesses for smart, sustainable innovation.
Can you have a thriving economy that is also mentoring, opportunities to test and demon-
green? In Denmark’s Capital and Zealand strate products, and advice on international
Regions it is already happening – with smart, branding and marketing. And with the cluster
green technologies (cleantech) at its core. providing a visible focus for the sector, busi-
nesses could more easily attract investment
“Cleantech” describes products or services and top researchers.
that improve business performance or effi-
ciency while reducing pollution, costs, inputs Green ambition
and waste. With the help of EUR 9 738 500 The project’s overall vision was to develop a
from the European Regional Development world-leading cluster of cleantech research-
Fund, the Copenhagen Cleantech Cluster ers and businesses in Copenhagen and the
project created networks of companies and country’s Zealand region. Over 600 compa-
research institutes to spark ideas for new nies were included, active in many different
cleantech products and services and develop service and manufacturing industries.
them into viable businesses.
The project’s 12 partners included leading Dan-
Entrepreneurs also received direct support ish universities, a science park, business inves-
from the project in the form of business tors and organisations, and the CopenhagenSMART GROWTH – Emerging opportunities in the global economy 18-19
Cleantech is a vital area for our growth and
development. The project succeeded in creating
a strong, sustainable, highly successful cleantech cluster.
Henrik Madsen, Chief consultant, Capital Region of Denmark
Project: Copenhagen Cleantech Cluster
Regions: Hovedstaden, Sjælland (Denmark)
Programme: Innovation and Knowledge
Duration: 01/09/2009-01/09/2014
Total budget: EUR 19 477 000 (including
EUR 9 738 500 European funding, ERDF)
foreign investment agency. Both regions also
Website: www.cleancluster.dk
engaged in the project, which gave their smart
specialisation strategies more impact and cut
red tape for cross-border ventures.
UNCTAD, the project hosted many interna-
As a result, many local cleantech companies tional delegations and events.
grew their business, despite the financial
crisis. Over 40 % took on more employees, In its five years, the cluster showed that sus-
and over half increased turnover. Just under tainability is not just good for the environ-
a third expanded exports. At the same time, ment; it is also good for business. It created
new companies started up and international over 1 000 new jobs, supported 126 start-ups,
cleantech companies were attracted to set up 64 research and company cooperations and
business in the regions. 38 new cooperations between companies, and
formalised cooperation with 15 leading clus-
Spotlight on success ters in the International Cleantech Network.
Companies’ close cooperation with each other
and research institutes was particularly fruit- The project has now ended but its successful
ful for innovation, shown by the high number story continues. Copenhagen Cleantech Clus-
of patents granted across the cluster. And ter has merged with another Danish cluster
the rest of the world took note. Recognised – the Lean Energy Cluster – to create CLEAN,
as one of the world’s leading cleantech clus- an organisation with over 170 members and
ters by organisations such as the OECD and even stronger business involvement.UPDATING THE ‘MADE IN ITALY’
BRAND FOR A GLOBAL MARKET
To help long-established sectors in the Basilicata Region become more
globally competitive, the EU-funded Mapping Basilicata project refreshed old-
fashioned processes with innovative ideas, designs and technology.
In an increasingly globalised world, traditional Modernising the cluster
manufacturing companies often struggle. The EU has long supported the creation of
Italy, a country with a proud tradition of SMEs clusters, a policy that favours locating similar
providing an array of goods and services, is SMEs close together so they are better able
no exception as many traditional SMEs strug- to share resources and services, thus lowering
gle to remain globally competitive. costs and increasing productivity and efficiency.
Although largely successful, one shortcoming
To put a halt to this trend, the EU-supported of the cluster approach is when the clusters
Mapping Basilicata project is working to consists of all traditional companies. In such
revitalise the ‘Made in Italy’ brand, particu- situations, the cluster can actually become a
larly as it applies to the food, furniture and disadvantage as it keeps new ideas out. Thus,
fashion industries. As a result, Italian SMEs the six clusters in the Basilicata region tended
in the southern Basilicata Region are better to be viewed as old-fashioned companies and
positioned to not only stay in business, but to their competiveness was increasingly ques-
compete in new global markets. tioned by the global market.SMART GROWTH – Emerging opportunities in the global economy 20-21
While the Mapping Basilicata programme has now
ended, it has offered a lasting legacy that will benefit
both businesses and clusters in terms of capacities,
branding, product placement, international
marketing and collaborative culture.
Giampiero Maruggi, Managing Authority
Project: Mapping Basilicata
Region: Basilicata (Italy)
Programme: Basilicata
Duration: 30/06/2013-31/12/2015
Total budget: EUR 1 260 000 (including
EUR 630 000 European funding, ERDF)
Website: www.mappingbasilicata.it
To solve this problem, the Mapping Basilicata Made in Italy 2.0
project took this cluster concept and added This innovative approach helped traditional,
an innovative economic model to it. With the ‘old-fashioned’ companies into clusters of
aim of creating innovation hubs in the areas global players by introducing more innovation
of design, fashion and food, the project con- and technology, upgrading production pro-
nected traditional manufacturing companies cesses and leveraging creativity and cross-sec-
with emerging creative industries. The result toral cooperation. In fact, over 150 traditional
is a revitalisation of traditional manufactur- Italian companies were involved in the project,
ing clusters into innovative, international- which came together to launch three registered
ly-orientated ones. The project has helped sectoral brands: Basilicata Fine Foods, Casa-
integrate creative industries and design firms matera and Bwear. These brands were then
within these traditional clusters, which has marketed to a global audience via 20 trade
led to an updating of the production, design, events held across five countries, with over 200
marketing and quality processes happening products being placed on foreign markets for a
at all the clusters. foreseen turnover of EUR 3 million.SUSTAINABLE
GROWTH
Circular economyBRUSSELS GREENBIZZ:
A GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE
BUSINESS INCUBATOR
The promotion of sustainable growth, start-ups and fledgling businesses will
benefit from a new support structure in a building with innovative architecture.
The support for fledgling businesses and EUR 9 259 810 from the European Regional
start-ups is not always limited to advice or Development Fund (ERDF).
financial aid. A new business initiative also
sometimes needs a physical space in which to In practical terms, Brussels Greenbizz is offer-
expand its ideas. Sustainable development is ing 5 500 m2 of production workshops and
a particularly weak sector within the Brussels 2 800 m2 of office space: a genuine ecosys-
economy. The Regional Sustainable Develop- tem where the occupants can collaborate,
ment Plan is also seeking to make Brussels exchange and move forward with their pro-
more competitive, efficient and green in its jects. The modular spaces are fully equipped
use of resources. and the participants can also take advan-
tage of administrative services, including a
The Brussels Greenbizz project is offering reception and secretarial offices along with
work spaces and support to fledgling eco-fo- customised training. This is the first business
cused businesses. This project received incubator of this type in Brussels.SUSTAINABLE GROWTH – Circular economy 24-25
Brussels Greenbizz’s goals include boosting sustainable economic
sectors in Brussels and supporting business initiatives in the
sustainable economy. The project offers start-ups an optimum
environment in which to develop their business ideas in a totally new
building pioneering innovative, pleasing and exemplary architecture
in terms of sustainable development.
Geneviève Planchard, Communications Officer with the
Brussels Regional Civil Service - Brussels Regional Coordination, ERDF Cell
Project: Brussels Greenbizz
Region: Région de Bruxelles-Capitale/
Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest (Belgium)
Programme: Brussels Capital Region
An innovative project
that creates jobs Duration: 01/12/2010-31/03/2016
The project’s advantage does not simply lie in Total budget: EUR 18 519 638 (including
its concept: the building’s architecture gives it an EUR 9 259 810 European funding, ERDF)
exemplary and innovative character. It has been
Website: www.greenbizz.brussels
designed and built in line with the principles of
eco-construction. Apart from the management
and sorting of waste, the materials have been
chosen with their life cycle and potential health
hazards in mind, with priority being given to Seven small companies were installed as
recyclable and natural products. In addition, pho- soon as it opened and five out of 17 work-
tovoltaic panels, special ventilation, lighting and shops were occupied during the following
heating techniques and the particular attention months, proof that Brussels Greenbizz was
afforded to the insulation and waterproof façade responding to a genuine business need. About
make the new building extremely energy-effi- 10 jobs were created by the project after a
cient. The business incubator and the workshop few months and an estimated 200 people will
spaces meet low-energy energy standards. benefit from it after a few years.CENTRO BIO: BIO-BASED
GROWTH FOR RURAL ECONOMIES
Researchers and businesses in Portugal are piloting a smart, circular economy
for rural areas. A biorefinery, biotech research, SME support and training for
students are driving the change.
In the forested mountains of Portugal’s Cen- preneurs. The project is working towards a
tro region, a revolution is taking place. A tech- sustainable ‘circular economy’ for the area
nology and innovation centre is developing a – one where businesses interact and share
bio-based rural economy that sources fuel resources to avoid waste – and is funded by
and raw materials sustainably, creating new EUR 2 640 000 from the European Regional
jobs and businesses, while limiting imports Development Fund.
and preserving the area’s natural beauty.
Transformative technology
Inspired by agricultural and forestry waste The project’s network covers towns and rural
and residues that were a local hazard but communities scattered over a 1 000 km2
have the potential to interact with different area. These produce thousands of tonnes of
value-chains, the Centro Bio: Bio-industries, organic waste each year and import many of
Biorefineries and Bioproducts project works their needs, including fuel.
with researchers and local farmers, foresters
and entrepreneurs to develop new industries Part of an EU-wide network of 55 R&D organ-
from by-products, improve businesses effi- isations, Centro Bio shows how technology
ciency and train future scientists and entre- can turn these problems into opportunities.SUSTAINABLE GROWTH – Circular economy 26-27
We proved that technologies and knowledge transform
problems and opportunities into new business prospects,
for a competitive local economy with a low environmental
impact and high economic efficiency levels, thus creating
industrial and regional symbiosis.
João Nunes, Founder, Associação BLC3
Project: Centro Bio: Bio-industries,
Biorefineries and Bioproducts
A cutting-edge bio-refinery is able to produce Region: Centro (Portugal)
up to 25 million litres of biofuel per year from Programme: Centro
leftover plant matter, for a reliable local source
of low-carbon energy. The project also prevents Duration: 22/04/2014-28/09/2015
forest fires in the area by providing a market Total budget: EUR 3 159 000 (including
for flammable biomass residues and reducing EUR 2 640 000 European funding, ERDF)
inhabitants’ need to harvest plants for fuel.
Website: www.blc3.pt
Researchers at the Centro Bio also look into
the potential of overlooked resources and
by-products – such as indigenous fungi or
liquid left over from cheese-making – to gen-
erate innovative industries. And to invest in So far, the research centre has created
the region’s greatest resource – its people 52 highly-skilled jobs, four spin-offs, six start-
– it promotes science and entrepreneurship ups and 24 R&D sub-projects, and generated
to students and schoolchildren, and quali- commercial interest in its biorefinery tech-
ty-of-life improvements for all. nology. It is also helping set up the All-Portu-
guese Association of bioeconomy and circular
Business benefits economy.
Practical help for entrepreneurs includes
R&D knowledge, mentoring, labs and offices The centre plans to link up with two more
for start-ups, along with efficiency advice for regions – the North and Alentejo Regions –
more established SMEs. Other support guides for a wider smart region. Ultimately, it aims to
researchers and entrepreneurs through the generate from EUR 2.9 to 4.3 billion in annual
funding and regulatory maze to commercial- income and over 70 000 jobs.
ise innovations.WEALTH FROM WASTE
IN NORTHERN AND ARCTIC
MARINE REGIONS
Local enterprises in remote northern coastal economies create smart new
industries from plastic marine waste to revive economies and keep the
environment clean.
The stunning coastlines of the Northern helps local social enterprises and SMEs put
Periphery & Arctic region have traditionally the litter to profitable use.
supported strong fishing communities. But
times are changing. The industry is on the This creates a circular local economy in plas-
decline, while plastic fishing litter threatens tics – waste from one business is used in
wildlife and fishing boats. another for a self-sustaining overall economy.
Circular Ocean cleans up the environment,
The EU-funded Circular Ocean project has breathes fresh life into remote economies
stepped in with support to develop smart and makes more sustainable use of materials
‘green’ industries from old plastic fishing nets communities already import.
and ropes. This represents 10% of marine
waste and is a potential resource for many Inspirational initiatives
industries, and can be incorporated into For entrepreneurs, the three-year project
products such as clothing and skateboards. developed its ‘Green Business Suite’ ser-
Funded with EUR 921 176 from the Euro- vices. The package includes an online product
pean Regional Development Fund, the project and business idea evaluation framework forSUSTAINABLE GROWTH – Circular economy 28-29
Our initiatives have real potential to become self-sustaining
and unlock hidden economic opportunities. By “staying local’,
communities have the opportunity to see fishing nets and
marine litter as a raw material as well as an opportunity to
reduce their environmental footprint.
Dr Neil James, project lead
Project: Circular Ocean
Regions: Highlands and Islands, Surrey,
East and West Sussex (United Kingdom);
And the more people are involved in green
Border, Midland and Western, Southern and
enterprise, the wider its benefits spread. So
Eastern (Ireland); Greenland; Sør-Trøndelag
Circular Ocean has developed training activi-
(Norway)
ties for eco-innovators and for future trainers.
Programme: Northern Periphery and Arctic The project also held an innovation compe-
Programme 2014-2020 tition to encourage new ideas and concepts.
Duration: 01/10/2015-30/09/2018
Positive potential
Total budget: EUR 1 472 185 (including
A market study, feasibility study and technical
EUR 921 176 European funding, ERDF)
report at the project’s start confirmed there
Website: www.circularocean.eu is demand for the business concept and that
marine waste is suitable for commercial uses.
Less than a year in, the three-year project
has already created 24 direct jobs. It aims
targeted stakeholders, an eco-innovation hub to generate many more low- and high-skilled
for sharing ideas and contacting potential part- jobs across coastal communities – in design,
ners, and four eco-innovation toolkits – printed development and manufacturing of innova-
advice on innovation for a circular economy. tive products, as well as transport, sorting
and reprocessing marine waste.
Hands-on support includes pilot-testing new
products, such as building materials rein- Circular Ocean fits well into the European
forced with fishing net fibres, and water pol- Union’s Blue Growth strategy for sustainable
lution filters made from old fishing nets. At growth in marine and maritime sectors. It has
the same time, a transnational network of drawn up policy papers to share the lessons
experts advises local communities on how to it has learned so that other regions can profit
recycle and re-purpose marine litter. from its ‘wealth from waste’ approach.EXTRACTING VALUE-ADDED
INGREDIENTS FROM WINE WASTE
Innovative extraction techniques for isolating useful bioactive compounds
from wine waste and turning them into value-added ingredients will benefit
local wine makers, food producers and the environment.
Wine is not just great for drinking it would drying method, specific quantities of plant
appear; bioactive compounds created during extract powder have been produced and used
production can be turned into valuable ingre- as ingredients to enrich chocolates and pra-
dients for a whole range of sectors. Now sci- lines, improving their colour, smell, texture
entists at the University of Zagreb’s Faculty and taste. The project, made possible by
of Food Technology and Biotechnology have funding from the European Regional Devel-
developed novel ways of extracting these opment Fund amounting to EUR 391 885, has
compounds, which can be used as raw mate- also strengthened the scientific and research
rials or semi-finished products in further pro- capacity of the Faculty through the acquisi-
cessing – in functional foods, for example, or tion of new equipment and knowledge.
pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Sustainable production
Value-added ingredients The project is sustainable and environmen-
One successful project trial demonstrated tally conscious as it worked with solvents
how chocolates and pralines can be enriched and materials on the basis of green chem-
with bioactive compounds isolated from the istry and low environmental impact. The new
remainders of grapes after being pressed. techniques developed are also highly energy
After optimising an experimental spray- efficient. The team hopes that the successfulSUSTAINABLE GROWTH – Circular economy 30-31
The project’s success in developing new eco-friendly technologies
for the exploitation of organic waste from wine production
is very much in line with several national and EU strategies
dealing with the protection of the environment, waste
management and sustainable production.
Natasa Raduka, Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds
Project: Application of Innovative
Techniques in Bioactive Compounds Isolation
from Organic Waste in the Wine Product
Regions: Jadranska Hrvatska,
Kontinentalna Hrvatska (Croatia)
Programme: Regional Competitiveness
Duration: 16/10/2014-16/02/2016
implementation of this project will create Total budget: EUR 556 312 (including
the basis for further research on other food EUR 391 885 European funding, ERDF)
industry by-products, such as olive oil mill Website: www.pbf.unizg.hr/en/departments/
waste along with apple, cherry and tomato department_of_food_engineering/
processing waste. laboratory_for_technology_of_fruits_and_
vegetables_preservation_and_processing/
The new techniques developed by the verica_dragovic_uzelac
team will now be passed on to small and
medium-sized wine makers in Croatia, ena-
bling them to achieve production efficiencies
and open up new revenue streams. Indeed, a New efficient techniques to process organic
key goal of the project has been to strengthen waste could lead to the development of
the bond between Croatia’s scientific and busi- regional centres for utilising wine waste,
ness sectors in order to fully exploit the bio- along with other kinds of industrial waste
logical potential of organic waste and lessen with certain modifications. Ultimately, the
its impact on the environment. Issues such as success of this project highlights the poten-
investment in skills and territorial cohesion tial benefits of developing a strong network
were addressed through training programmes of scientists and related institutions involved
and workshops in different Croatian regions. in waste management.REGIONAL COOPERATION
DRIVES SUSTAINABLE WASTE
SOLUTION
Investment in new technology has revolutionised waste management
in Poland’s Lubelskie region, dramatically increasing the amount
of waste that can be recycled and composted and reducing the
amount of biodegradable waste destined for landfill.
Effective waste solutions are one of those con- and mineral fraction waste. Green waste can
cepts that benefit everyone: businesses’ costs also be segregated and shredded for com-
are cut; health hazards are reduced; habitats post, and there is the possibility of turning
are restored and products are recycled. The pro- some waste into alternative fuel production.
ject, which received funding of EUR 7 808 368 Bulky waste and used electronic equipment
from the European Regional Development can also be collected from residents.
Fund, sought to bring this solution to a number
of Polish municipalities by constructing a state- A dramatic improvement
of-the-art waste management plant, equipped Until completion of this project, waste man-
with technology capable of processing the agement in the municipalities belonging to
region’s entire municipal waste stream. Proekob – a partnership of 15 municipalities
within the Polish province of Lublin – tended
The centre receives and segregates munic- to be carried out in a disorganised manner
ipal waste into packaging waste (recyclable incompatible with both Polish and European
materials), organic waste, hazardous waste guidelines. Furthermore, waste from selectiveSUSTAINABLE GROWTH – Circular economy 32-33
The project has recognised the growing importance
of the environment as a factor in stimulating
socioeconomic development; already, 46 new jobs
have been created.
Edyta Domańska, Celowy Związek Gmin Proekob
Project: Construction of Waste Management
Site for Special Purpose Association of
Municipalities Proekob
Region: Lubelskie (Poland)
Programme: Lubelskie
Duration: 01/07/2010-28/02/2013
Total budget: EUR 11 060 208 (including
EUR 7 808 368 European funding, ERDF)
Website: www.proekob.pl
collection accounted for just a small percent-
age of all collected waste. This meant that a
high percentage of waste that could other- Investment in the environment
wise be recycled ended up in landfill, leading Perhaps one of the most important aspects
to higher operational costs and the possibility of this project will be the long-term invest-
of long-term environmental damage. There ment in improving the environment. The pro-
was also concern that the health of local res- ject has already contributed to reducing the
idents was being put at risk. amount of pollutants in the air and in the
ground, introduced efficient waste manage-
The origins of this project go back to 2004, ment procedures and improved environmen-
when three municipalities in Lublin formed tal management. For example, the project
the Proekob and appointed a Special Purpose has significantly reduced the risks that land-
Association to implement a common waste fill sites pose to vulnerable birds and rodents
management plan. Over the next few years and reduced the emission of biogas.
other regional municipalities joined. This part-
nership was instrumental in seeing through The new technology meets the requirements
this new waste segregation centre, which han- set by the European Union regarding waste
dles waste for around 137 000 inhabitants. management by minimising landfill waste
through processing and recovery.INCLUSIVE
GROWTH
Integrated living – building inclusive
and non-segregated communitiesHELPING THE SOCIAL ECONOMY
REACH ITS FULL POTENTIAL
In between the public and private sectors lies a third sector: the so-called
social economy. This is where the public and private sectors are supposed
to meet to collaborate for social good, often via cooperatives, non-profit
organisations, social enterprises and charities. But if the right systems
are not in place, the social economy can fall far short of its potential.
To fill this gap and to enhance the impact that stance abusers and the mentally ill. Building
non-profits, charities and other social enter- from the recently enacted Malopolska Pact
prises had on the Malopolska Region in Poland, for Social Economy, the project provided the
the European Social Fund-supported Academy tools needed to implement the legislation.
of Social Economy Development Project (ASEDP)
helped centralise the cooperation between these A key challenge to creating a successful social
private entities and the public sector. economy is the fact that, by its very nature,
it involves numerous actors and stakeholders.
Focus on the commonalities Not only does it require the cooperation of the
As the Malopolska Region generally lacked a public and private sectors – always a chal-
true social economy, ASEDP’s primary goal lenge in itself – within each of these sectors
was to create one. Specifically, it focused its there are an array of different organisations,
attention on building a social economy capa- each with their own (sometimes competing)
ble of supporting at-risk individuals such as agendas. For this reason, ASEDP focused on
the unemployed, disabled, homeless, sub- the commonalities and, most importantly,INCLUSIVE GROWTH – Integrated living – building inclusive and non-segregated communities 36-37
Having combined strategic support for a social economy
sector on the regional level with the support for individuals
not only allowed ASEDP to successfully increase the
number of social economy entities in the Malopolska
Region, it also helped improve the knowledge of residents
about what the social economy is and how it benefits them.
Wioletta Wilimska, Director of the Regional Centre for Social Policy
Project: Academy of Social Economy
Development Project (ASEDP)
Region: Małopolskie (Poland)
Programme: Human Capital Programme
Duration: 01/07/2008-30/06/2015
Total budget: EUR 3 421 060 (including
ensuring that these common goals and com- EUR 2 907 901 European funding, ESF)
plementary offerings were readily shared
Website: www.rops.krakow.pl
between sectors and amongst organisations.
Creating a hub
The result was the establishment of an Infor-
mation & Consultation Point, a hub where
social economy actors could meet for knowl- In total, 1 711 individuals benefited from the
edge sharing, training, consultations and pro- programme, along with 245 social economy
motional activities. The hub served as the entities and 126 local partners. Altogether,
go-to-place for both existing and potentially 208 financial subsidies were transferred to
new social economy entities, where they newly-established social cooperatives thanks
could learn about the most relevant statutes, to the project’s success in creating the support
share best practices and get help on such structure that was needed to help the region’s
start-up steps as developing a business plan. social economy reach its full potential.OPENING MINDS AND
IMPROVING LIVES IN THE
BORDER REGION BETWEEN
ITALY AND AUSTRIA
Diversity4Kids is improving the wellbeing of locals and immigrants by fighting
discrimination and xenophobia through playful techniques. This project, which
targets 8 to 14-year-old pupils, promotes tolerance and prepares young
people for a life in a diverse society.
The recent migration crisis is a reality for The project ‘Diversity4Kids – Learning about
children throughout Europe, as more and intercultural dialogue and diversity in schools
more school classes are made up of students in a playful, interactive and narrative way’
from different nationalities and cultural back- does exactly that. It encourages intercultural
grounds. The time to promote acceptance, openness among children to promote pos-
tolerance and understanding is when children itive coexistence in schools and later in life.
are open to new experiences, with diversity The European Regional Development Fund
perceived as an opportunity to grow, as a per- invested EUR 202 155 in the project, which
sonal and social benefit. reached over 1 800 pupils and 100 teachers
and will continue to do so in the years to come.INCLUSIVE GROWTH – Integrated living – building inclusive and non-segregated communities 38-39
Diversity4Kids helps to raise awareness among
pupils aged between 8 and 14 to encourage positive
coexistence as a foundation for a prosperous social,
economic and cultural development.
Armin Brugger, Project Manager at ZeMiT
Project: Diversity4Kids – learning about
intercultural dialogue and diversity in schools
in a playful, interactive and narrative way
Regions: Tirol (Austria); Provincia Autonoma
di Bolzano-Bozen, Regione Autonoma Friuli
Venezia Giulia (Italy)
Programme: Italy - Austria
Duration: 01/09/2012-31/08/2014
Games that encourage
intercultural dialogues Total budget: EUR 316 526 (including
The project, which covers the Tyrol-South EUR 202 155 European funding, ERDF)
Tyrol-Trentino region, consists of various activ-
Website: www.zemit.at
ities and workshops; around 100 events were
organised within the cross-border region. In
the schools, tolerance and respect are taught 14-year-olds. The biography workshops,
through role-playing, improvisation theatre, creative writing and bilingual storytelling
biography workshops and narrative storytell- (German/Turkish and German/Italian) are new
ing methods, taking into account the impor- training methods that have been included in
tance of games and fun as a substantial part the system.
of children’s emotional, cognitive and social
development. These classes enable children In addition, 300 playsets have been devel-
to open up and get to know each other, while oped, along with CDs and brochures, which
preventing bullying and xenophobia. can be found in schools, libraries, and youth
centres to disseminate know-how on migra-
Innovative teaching methods tion and integration. Workshops and activi-
for years to come ties continue to be carried out and have been
The project started with a research phase extended to other countries as well, teaching
to identify which course materials were still children but also educators how to manage
missing in the education system for 8 to potential conflicts in classes.EUREGIO BARRIEREFREI:
A TRAVEL WEBSITE FOR PEOPLE
WITH DISABILITIES IN GERMANY
AND AUSTRIA
A new website for people with disabilities in Germany and Austria serves as
a platform for sharing information and reviews on the accessibility of popular
holiday destinations.
Southern Bavaria in Germany and the Salzburg ing engines to find the right tour for them. For
region of Austria have a shared history and people with disabilities, it can be more difficult.
common culture, with citizens from both sides For starters, these sites are often not accessi-
of the border regularly crossing for all aspects ble. More importantly, they also lack any indi-
of daily life like school, work or holiday. How- cation as to the accessibility of a given hotel,
ever, one population that is limited in their restaurant or tourist attraction.
ability to take advantage of this cross-border
interaction are persons with disabilities. An accessibility advisor
The EURegio Barrierefrei project, backed with
When the average European citizen goes to EUR 11 103 in funding from the European
book their summer holidays, they can turn to Regional Development Fund (ERDF), set out to
an array of user-based review sites and book- break down these barriers by consolidating allINCLUSIVE GROWTH – Integrated living – building inclusive and non-segregated communities 40-41
Following the end of the project, the initial groups of
disabled persons have continued to test touristic offerings
funded by the budget of the project and its partners. In
other words, this is an ongoing process that we fully expect
to continue to grow in the near future.
Markus Gneiss, Managing Authority
Project: EURegio Barrierefrei
Regions: Salzburg (Austria), Bayern:
Oberbayern (Germany)
information relating to inclusive, accessible
holiday opportunities from across the region Programme: Germany (Bavaria) – Austria
into a single, one-stop-shop website. Duration: 08/01/2014-31/03/2015
Total budget: EUR 21 285 (including
The result is www.euregio-barrierefrei.eu, a
EUR 11 103 European funding, ERDF)
user-driven, ‘Trip Advisor’ style travel review
website where persons with disabilities and Website: www.clw-traunreut.de
their relatives can share information on their
experiences at particular hotels, restaurants
and other holiday-related locations. Users tise of the end user, it is also creating new job
can simply log on to the site and search opportunities for people with disabilities, who
reviews written by other users with disabili- are now being hired as ‘accessibility experts’.
ties. With this information in hand, they can
book their holiday with confidence that the Even though the project itself is closed, its
establishments they are travelling to are in impact is sure to continue. Project partners
fact truly accessible. are currently expanding the website’s scope
by partnering with various national, regional
The economic impact and community tourist associations in both
By using digital and social platforms, the pro- Austria and Germany to link their websites to
ject successfully created a community that is the EURegio Barrierefrei site. This has led to
having a direct impact on the regional econ- the creation of over 57 accessible package
omy. By promoting inclusive travel, holiday and holidays. A training course on accessibility
tourism related businesses and services are has also been developed, which could be used
benefiting. As the project relies on the exper- by other EU programmes.WORKING TOGETHER TO
INCREASE EMPLOYABILITY
With unemployment levels at an all-time high in parts of Spain,
‘at-risk’ individuals are being hit particularly hard. To mitigate this effect,
the EU-funded Vives Emplea project is equipping them with the tools
and skills they need to successfully secure employment.
The economic crisis has hit Spain hard, espe- The secret is teamwork
cially for those who already face the chal- At the core of the Vives Emplea methodology
lenges of poverty and social exclusion. As is the belief that individuals are more likely
this population tends to lack the social and to succeed when working together with other
educational skills needed for basic employ- people from similar backgrounds. Thus, the
ment, they are at higher risk of seeing their programme put together teams comprised of
situation go from bad to worse. 25 unemployed people deemed to be at risk
of social exclusion. These individuals included
Knowing that poverty and social exclusion are those with low educational levels, single par-
influenced by such factors as employment, ents, immigrants, victims of domestic vio-
education, housing and health, the Vives lence, refugees and people with disabilities.
Emplea project, which received EUR 5 837 473
from the European Social Fund, has responded These work groups followed a training and
with a model that increases the employability skill development course aimed at equipping
of that portion of the population most at risk each individual with the tools they need to
of social exclusion. successfully find a job. The programme runsYou can also read
