Description
The Clusters Meet Regions event In Palma, Spain will take place on 14-15 May 2025, organised by the European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP) on behalf of the European Commission, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Innovation and Digital Transformation of the Government of the Balearic Islands and Fundació Bit.
Themed “Clusters as Drivers of Regional Transition from Linear to Circular Economy,” the event will explore how clusters can accelerate the shift towards sustainable economic models, positioning Palma and the Balearic Islands as key actors in circular economy innovation. While globally known for its thriving tourism sector, the Balearic Islands are now taking bold steps towards economic diversification, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation as strategic priorities.
CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES
Since its inception in 2022, the Clusters Meet Regions series has been hosted in various EU regions to strengthen the connection between clusters, policymakers, and regional stakeholders at all levels. These workshops aim to support the economic development of the host regions while fostering the exchange of best practices where clusters are essential drivers of economic transition.
The Balearic Islands present a unique context for this edition of Clusters Meet Regions. While the islands are known for their tourism sector, they are also taking significant steps to diversify their economy. This includes strengthening innovation ecosystems and prioritising the development of new sectors that contribute to sustainability and resilience. The islands are committed to achieving social, economic, and environmental balance by adopting circular economy principles.
In 2024, the Balearic Islands were recognised as a “Regional Valley of Innovation” for their advances in circularity, reflecting their dedication to sustainable development. The Clusters Meet Regions event in Palma will serve as a platform to highlight the region’s innovation potential, increase its participation in European projects, and strengthen the local and European productive fabric.
The event will address circular economy models and the strategies that companies and organisations can adopt to improve their resource efficiency and sustainability practices. It will focus on fostering collaborations and creating synergies among European clusters, helping regions tackle shared challenges while accelerating the transition to clean and competitive economies.
KEY OBJECTIVES:
Reposition Palma and the Balearic Islands as leaders in innovation and sustainability, moving beyond the traditional tourism-focused economy.
Showcase successful European case studies in circular economy and explore how they can be applied in different regional contexts.
Foster cross-border partnerships and encourage collaborative projects between clusters, SMEs, and regional stakeholders.
Highlight innovative financing models and improve access to funding opportunities for circular economy projects.
Promote the Balearic Islands’ involvement in European projects and strengthen their role in the broader EU innovation ecosystem.
TARGET GROUPS
The event will bring together a wide range of stakeholders involved in circular economy initiatives and regional economic development, including:
Cluster organisations from the Balearic Islands, Spain, and across Europe.
Local SMEs and businesses that have implemented circular economy practices.
Regional, national, and EU policymakers focused on innovation, sustainability, and economic development.
Investors and funding bodies interested in supporting circular economy projects.
Academia, research institutions, and circular economy experts from various sectors.
AGENDA OVERVIEW
Day 1 – Knowledge Exchange and Networking
The event will open with a focus on the Balearic Islands' strategic shift towards innovation and sustainability, featuring insights from local and European policymakers. Key sessions will explore the role of clusters in driving circular economy innovations, with panel discussions, keynote addresses, and success stories highlighting both regional and European best practices. Interactive workshops will delve into core topics such as waste reduction, resource optimisation, and sustainable business models.
Day 2 – Matchmaking and Site Visits
The second day will focus on B2B matchmaking sessions, providing participants with opportunities to form cross-border partnerships. This will be followed by site visits to local companies successfully implementing circular economy principles, offering practical insights into how these strategies are applied within the Balearic Islands' unique context.
VENUE AND LOGISTICS
The event will be hosted at ParcBit, Palma’s innovation and technology park, located at the foot of the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This venue symbolises the Balearic Islands’ commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy and promoting sustainability.
Accommodation: A wide range of hotels is available in Palma, providing convenient access to the venue and the city’s cultural attractions.
Travel Information: Palma is easily accessible via Palma de Mallorca Airport, with direct connections to major European cities. Public transport and taxi services ensure seamless travel to ParcBit and other key locations in the city.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
The Clusters Meet Regions event in Palma will:
Reposition the Balearic Islands as a leader in innovation and sustainability, beyond its traditional identity as a tourism hotspot.
Strengthen cross-regional collaboration on circular economy initiatives, promoting knowledge exchange and replicable models.
Foster new partnerships between clusters, SMEs, and policymakers to drive sustainable regional development.
Enhance the visibility of the Balearic Islands within the European innovation ecosystem.
Facilitate access to funding for circular economy projects, supporting the region’s shift towards a competitive, clean economy.
By positioning clusters at the heart of regional transformation, the event will play a pivotal role in reshaping the economic future of Palma and contributing to Europe’s broader sustainability goals.
REGISTRATION
Registration will be available soon via B2Match for the 'Clusters Meet Regions' and Matchmaking event in Palma, Spain.
Stay tuned!