|
The VIDA Alumni network is a strategic tool developed collaboratively by the project partners and SMEs to maintain and capitalise on links established during the VIDA project through the implementation of the VIDA Nexus. Furthermore, new cross-border and cross-regional collaborations between clusters, SMEs, and other organisations are planned to grow and expand. The network aims to foster a symbiotic relationship of shared VIDA activities and knowledge, guided by the former VIDA consortium partners, to continue developing and supporting innovations following the principles of the circular economy and the Green Deal.
On 16 September 2021, VIDA Alumni was presented at the online Kick-Off Meeting of the next generation of INNOSUP projects. The first introductory meeting with alumni members took place on 28 September 2021, aiming to inform about the overall VIDA sustainability strategy and use of network to support and link like-minded SMEs, clusters, research and business organisations, other EU projects and their representatives as well as regional and European policymakers.
The network will be conducted through the provision of regular online events such as thematic webinars and annual meetings of VIDA Alumni minds as well as the application of VIDA tools/services and newsletters to exchange news from the VIDA regions and clusters. VIDA Toolbox is composed of 16 tools/services that are exclusively available to VIDA Alumni members. The membership is free of charge and any SME operating in the food, water and energy sector and/or developing key enabling technologies may join and gain benefits of networking, matchmaking, use of free and paid services. Moreover, any other EU project and other types of initiatives are also encouraged to approach VIDA Alumni and discuss potential collaboration through the network.
Over the past 42 months, VIDA has produced many other resources that are valuable to SMEs, innovation actors, other INNOSUP and EU initiatives and regional and EU policymakers:
|
