14:30 – University perspective – Siep Littooij, Saxion University of Applied Sciences from East Netherlands

14.00 Welcome and introduction

14.10 Regional dimension in the ERA

• What role could Smart Specialisation concretely play in the renewed ERA?
• Interconnected innovation hubs in the new ERA – what will this mean in practice?

Magda De Carli, Head of Unit, ERA & Country Intelligence, DG Research and Innovation

14.30 Practical examples – Smart Specialisation and the regional dimension of the ERA

• Regional authority perspective – David Fenner, Saxony Anhalt (DE)

How can Smart Specialisation strategies create a regional dimension of ERA? How are regions contributing to the ERA? 

• University perspective – Siep Littooij, Saxion University of Applied Sciences (NL) What are the advantages of collaboration and a good RIS3 connection? How can it be used a steppingstone for European engagement?

Followed by a discussion

15.15 Feedback and key elements of the Committee of the Regions’ opinion on the ERA

Christophe Clergeau, Pays de la Loire, member of the Committee of the Regions (TBC)

15.30 Any other business and next meeting