Welcome to Clusters meet Regions and AGORADA+ Charleroi, Belgium,27-28 November 2024

The European Cluster Collaboration Platform, on behalf of the European Commission, in partnership with IGRETEC, Charleroi Métropole, and the European Association of Development Agencies (EURADA), jointly organise the Clusters Meet Regions workshop to explore how regional development agencies, clusters and other actors could foster stronger collaboration in the implementation of regional and national economic development policies. The specific aim of the event is to foster wider uptake and development of life sciences, cleantech, and advanced manufacturing in Belgium.

For the third consecutive year, AGORADA+, one of EURADA’s main annual events, will be organised in cooperation in the context of “Clusters Meet Regions” workshop.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES
The "Clusters meet Regions" series supports EU regions in boosting their competitiveness post-COVID-19 through closer collaboration between clusters and regional authorities. The 18th event in Charleroi, Belgium, will showcase the region's economic transformation, leveraging European and regional funds in sectors like Life Sciences, Cleantech, and Advanced Manufacturing. Charleroi’s shift from an industrial hub to an innovation-driven economy highlights the role of clusters. Three innovation clusters dedicated to collaborative innovation projects in Wallonia will contribute more specifically to the programme: Wagralim (technological, business or managerial innovation in the food industry), Greenwin (green chemistry, innovative building materials &processes, and environment) and Pôle Mecatech (engineering sciences applied to the manufacturing sector). The event aims to share these best practices and inspire other regions, fostering collaboration among stakeholders.



TARGET GROUPS
The 'Clusters Meet Regions' event in Charleroi serves as a melting pot for diverse stakeholders. From cluster managers to policymakers, regional practitioners, development agencies and industry experts to SMEs, the event fosters cross-sectoral dialogue and collaboration, catalysing innovative solutions to pressing challenges.

AGENDA OVERVIEW
The event's agenda features a diverse array of activities, including high-level plenary sessions, interactive discussions, pitching sessions and a guided tour to District Cleantech, Charleroi BioPark, or Aperam Châtelet.