European_Commission_Logo.svg
#EURID2025
October 10, 2025 | Brussels EU Berlaymont
25 Novembre 2024
Lyon, Hôtel de Région

European Regional Innovation Day 2025

wired-flat-967-questionnaire

About the Event

Learn about the objectives, speakers, and themes of the European Regional Innovation Day 2025.

wired-flat-424-question-bubble

The Programme

Discover the conferences, workshops, and interactive sessions planned for an inspiring and informative day.

wired-flat-52-location-pin-on-square-map

Register Now

Secure your spot and explore all the details to join us in Brussels or online for this impactful event.

Join the first EURID Event of 2025

Innovate regionally, Impact globally

The European Regional Innovation Day 2025, hosted by DG REGIO, is dedicated to fostering dialogue and collaboration between regional authorities, policymakers, businesses, and academic institutions across Europe. This event will explore innovative solutions to regional challenges, promote knowledge exchange, and provide a platform to share best practices in sustainability, digital transformation, and community development.

Statistics and insights on regional development

In the pursuit of sustainable regional growth, it is crucial to understand the scale and impact of various socio-economic challenges across Europe. Today, regions face distinct obstacles—from economic inequality to digital divides—which require collaborative, innovative approaches to create more inclusive communities. For example, around 5% of EU citizens are impacted by limited digital access, which hampers their ability to participate fully in the digital economy. Such disparities highlight the need for events like the European Regional Innovation Day to foster solutions that address these critical gaps, driving forward an agenda of resilience and inclusiveness.

Key Statistics at a Glance

people in the EU have benefitted from regional innovation funding.
1000
Number of regional projects were launched focusing on sustainability between 2020-2024.
0
Number of EU regions are implementing smart governance and urban digital transformation initiatives.
0 %
Merchandising Eurid

Think you're an expert on regional innovation?
Prove it with our quiz below!

The winners will receive a set of regional innovation-themed merchandise, including a notebook, tote bag, and special edition event pen. (Limited to 50 winners)

132 players took the quizz

Take the quiz, win exclusive regional innovation merchandise!

European regional innovation Quiz

Welcome to the European Regional Innovation Quiz! Test your knowledge on regional development, sustainability, and digital transformation in Europe. This quiz is designed for attendees of the European Regional Innovation Day 2024 who want to challenge themselves and learn more about the key topics discussed during the event. See how much you know about Europe’s innovative regions and their efforts towards a greener, more connected future!

Start

Goals to drive regional collaboration and policy evolution

Building bridges for regional innovation and policy development

The objectives of the European Regional Innovation Day 2024 are designed to foster a collaborative environment where participants can share insights, build partnerships, and contribute to future regional policies. By addressing key areas such as innovation, sustainability, and economic resilience, these goals aim to make a lasting impact on regional development.

Objectives
wired-flat-2442-computer-chat-hover-popup

Knowledge exchange

Facilitate discussions on innovative regional strategies in the fields of green transition, digital transformation, and economic recovery.

wired-flat-1142-form-sheet-questionnaire-hover-pinch

Support policy development

Provide input for future policy development in the context of regional innovation and economic cohesion.

wired-flat-26-share-network-hover-pinch

Networking opportunities

Connect stakeholders across regions, including public authorities, private sector, and NGOs, to collaborate on regional projects.

Focal points for regional growth and transformation

Core areas driving regional progress

The European Regional Innovation Day 2024 will center around three key topics crucial for the advancement of regional economies. These topics have been selected to help participants explore actionable solutions to pressing challenges in sustainability, technology, and community development.

Key topics
wired-flat-731-real-estate-building-project-hover-pinch(1)

Sustainable urban development

Innovative projects in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and urban infrastructure.

wired-flat-746-technology-integrated-circuits-hover-pinch(1)

Digital transformation

Adopting smart technology for governance, digital inclusion, and improving quality of life in regional communities.

wired-flat-401-leaves-eco-hover-spin(1)

Green transition

Strategies for achieving regional sustainability goals, focusing on reducing carbon footprints and protecting biodiversity.

Registration Participation is free.

Participate in this exceptional event by filling out the registration form below.

Spaces are limited, so don’t wait to register!

Register for the event

Organize your day

Event Agenda

Morning Session

09:00 - 10:30

Opening Remarks and Keynote Address:
Speech by EU Commissioner for Regional Policy.

10:00 - 11:00

Panel Discussion:
Green Transition – Regional Best Practices and Innovative Solutions.

11:15 - 12:00

Workshop:
Engaging Local Communities in Policy Design.

12:00 - 13:00

Networking Lunch:
Meet and connect with peers and speakers.

Break

Afternoon Session

13:15 - 14:15

Interactive Session:
Funding Opportunities for Regional Innovation.

14:30 - 15:15

Roundtable Discussion:
Digital Transformation in Regional Policy.

15:30 - 16:15

Opening Remarks and Keynote Address:
Speech by EU Commissioner for Regional Policy.

16:30 - 17:00

Closing Remarks and Presentation of the Regional Innovation Awards.
Engaging key stakeholders in Regional Development

Who should attend?

 The European Regional Innovation Day 2024 is designed to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders involved in regional development. Attendees will include representatives from different sectors, all with a shared goal of fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. 

Regional Authorities
Representatives from regional councils, local governments, and municipal bodies.
Academic Institutions
Researchers and universities involved in regional development and innovation projects.
Businesses and Startups
Entrepreneurs, startups, and companies with innovative solutions for regional issues.
NGOs and Civil Society
Organizations focusing on social innovation, community development, and sustainability.
Meet the visionaries leading Europe's regional transformation

Inspiring leaders shaping regional innovation

The European Regional Innovation Day 2025 will feature an esteemed lineup of speakers who are leading the way in regional development, sustainability, digital transformation, and community engagement. These experts from DG REGIO, Brussels Economy and Employment, and regional authorities from Flanders and Wallonia will provide invaluable insights and share their experiences in driving impactful change across Europe.

Dr. Charlotte Verbeek
Head of Regional Policy Strategy, DG REGIO. Dr. Verbeek leads the strategic team for regional policy within DG REGIO, focusing on
innovation-driven regional growth and green initiatives.
Sophie Laurent
Green Transition Coordinator, Wallonia Regional Council. Sophie has a wealth of experience in renewable energy and sustainability projects, aiming to make Wallonia a leader in ecological transition.
Anouk Janssen
Director of Community Development, DG REGIO. Anouk leads efforts on community engagement and citizen-focused approaches in regional development policy and strategic planning.
Tom Vandermolen
Senior Economic Advisor, Brussels Economy and Employment. Tom is responsible for fostering economic development projects in Brussels, with a particular emphasis on entrepreneurship and digital transformation.
Maria De Wilde
Digital Transformation Lead, Flemish Region Development Authority. Maria specializes in implementing smart city technologies and fostering digital inclusion across the Flemish region.
Jean-Paul Maes
Policy Advisor on Social Innovation, Brussels Economy and Employment. Jean-Paul works on integrating social inclusion policies within the regional economic framework, especially focusing on marginalized communities.
Find the event easily

Directions

Sustainable ways to reach and explore Brussels

Environmentally friendly travel

For participants traveling from other European countries, consider these top eco-friendly travel options to reach Brussels:

Train Travel: Europe boasts an extensive and efficient rail network, making it an excellent alternative to flying. High-speed trains such as Thalys and Eurostar offer direct connections to Brussels from major cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam. Additional options like TGV and ICE cover many European hubs, providing a comfortable and scenic travel experience that significantly reduces your carbon footprint.

Long-Distance Buses: Services like FlixBus and Eurolines connect major European cities to Brussels. Although bus travel takes longer than flying, it remains a highly economical and environmentally friendly option. These companies offer regular routes with comfortable amenities and strategic stops to ensure a pleasant journey while greatly reducing carbon emissions compared to air travel.

Carpooling: Carpooling is another sustainable travel choice, facilitated by platforms like BlaBlaCar. By sharing a ride with other participants or travelers heading to Brussels, you can lower carbon emissions and cut down on travel costs. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also provides an opportunity to meet fellow travelers and share experiences along the way.

These descriptions highlight each company’s contribution to sustainable travel, allowing you to integrate their logos and relevant information seamlessly on your site.

Brussels offers a variety of eco-friendly transportation options to help you navigate the city sustainably.

Bike and Scooter Sharing: The city provides several shared mobility services:

Villo!: A public bike-sharing system with numerous stations across Brussels, allowing you to pick up and drop off bikes conveniently.

Billy Bike: Offers electric bikes that can be located and unlocked via a smartphone app, providing flexibility for your travels.

Dott: Provides both electric bikes and scooters, accessible through their app, facilitating quick and eco-friendly trips.

TIER : Offers electric scooters available throughout the city, easily rentable via their mobile application.

Electric Car Sharing: For greater flexibility, consider these electric car-sharing services:

Cambio: Provides a range of vehicles, including electric options, with stations located throughout Brussels.

Poppy: Offers electric cars and scooters, allowing you to pick up and drop off vehicles within designated zones.

GO Sharing: Operates a fleet of electric scooters, providing a sustainable option for short trips in the city.

To facilitate your travel within and around Brussels, two main transport companies provide reliable services: STIB-MIVB and De Lijn.

STIB-MIVB: This company manages the metro, tram, and bus services throughout Brussels. With a single pass or ticket, you can access all three modes of transport seamlessly. Tickets can be purchased for single journeys (valid for one hour) or as multi-day passes, offering flexibility based on your needs. STIB-MIVB’s extensive network ensures easy navigation and quick access to key areas within the city.

De Lijn: If you plan to explore areas beyond Brussels, De Lijn offers bus services that connect the city to surrounding towns and regions. This network is ideal for participants who wish to travel outside Brussels to explore more of Belgium. Tickets and passes can be purchased online or at designated points, making it easy to plan your extended travels.

Plan your journey

Accommodation and dining in Brussels

Hotels

Nearby: Marivaux Hotel

Explore nearby hotels around Brussels Central, offering a variety of accommodation options that cater to all needs.

Restaurants

In Brussels

After all, you are in Brussels, a European capital known for its culinary delights! Don't miss the chance to experience famous Belgian dishes and international cuisine.
Livebroacasting

Follow us on YouTube and watch EURID live

Be the first to know when the live broadcast of the European Regional Innovation Day goes live! Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get notified of the upcoming live stream and stay updated on key moments from the event. You can also subscribe to our newsletter for real-time updates and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that you may have questions about the European Regional Innovation Day 2024. Below, you will find answers to the most common questions about the event, including details about participation, agenda, and logistics. If you need more information, please feel free to reach out to us.

Yes, the European Regional Innovation Day 2024 will include multiple interactive sessions. Participants can join live Q&A panels, participate in polls, and use networking features to connect with other attendees.

The European Regional Innovation Day 2025 is an event hosted by DG REGIO, focusing on fostering collaboration among regional authorities, businesses, policymakers, and academic institutions to explore solutions to regional challenges, with an emphasis on sustainability, digital transformation, and community development.

If you require a visa to attend the European Regional Innovation Day 2024, we are here to assist you. We can provide links to government websites that outline the visa application process and requirements. Additionally, we can coordinate and provide an official invitation letter to support your visa application if needed. Please note that the cost of the visa is borne by the participant, unless otherwise agreed upon with the Contracting Authority (CA). For further assistance, feel free to contact our support team.

Participation is free, but requires registration. You can register by filling out the registration form available on our website.

The event will be conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, and German. Translation services will also be provided to ensure accessibility for all participants.

Yes, the event will be held in a hybrid format. You can join in person in Brussels or participate online via live-streamed sessions.

The event will cover topics such as sustainable urban development, digital transformation, green transition strategies, and funding opportunities for regional innovation.

Yes, there are multiple networking opportunities planned, including designated networking sessions during lunch and coffee breaks, where participants can connect and collaborate with stakeholders from different regions.

Need Assistance?
Our AI Assistant is here 24/7 and support 30+ languages

Get instant help with our AI-powered virtual assistant, available in multiple languages. Whether you have questions about registration, event details, or need technical support, our assistant is here for you around the clock to guide you. Experience seamless, multilingual support tailored to your needs—all at the click of a button.