On October 14, 2024, the Clustering in European Innovation for Sustainable Practices (CEISP) event, organized by ISMC, convened at the Hotel Occidental Sevilla Viapol in Seville, Spain. The gathering attracted 31 participants, both on-site and online, representing 18 entities across the mining sector value chain. Attendees included foundations, associations, large enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and freelancers from countries such as Spain, Canada, Germany, and Poland, encompassing a diverse range of sectors from technology and extractive industries to consultancy and legal services.
The primary objective of CEISP was to foster collaboration and promote innovation among European SMEs with a focus on sustainable business practices. The event featured the Sustainable Practice Innovation Gallery, where participants were introduced to I4-GREEN’s groundbreaking ideas and approaches to sustainability challenges. This initiative provided SMEs, recognized as key drivers of innovation, with valuable insights into sustainable solutions, encouraging knowledge-sharing and networking among stakeholders committed to sustainability.
As the I4-GREEN project approaches its final year, emphasis has shifted towards ensuring post-project impact. A significant aspect of this effort involves informing SMEs about available funding instruments in Europe. The CEISP event served as a platform to provide SMEs with clear and simplified insights into relevant funding opportunities under programs such as Horizon Europe, EIT, and Interreg, aiming to support SMEs in navigating the complex landscape of European funding programs to pursue their sustainability goals.
Concluding the event, a B2B networking and matchmaking session offered SMEs the opportunity to connect with potential partners, clients, and investors. Recognizing that networking plays a crucial role in the growth of SMEs, especially those aiming to innovate in sustainable practices, this session facilitated the establishment of relationships that can lead to new collaborations, market opportunities, and the exchange of best practices across industries.
