On May 13, 2025, in the afternoon, a workshop will be organized at the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro as part of the POLICY ANSWERS project, within the framework of the Research and Innovation governance platform meeting.

The workshop aims to explore how technology-oriented research infrastructures can serve as a catalyst for scientific and economic development in the Western Balkans. Special focus will be on best practices, investment opportunities, and strategic approaches for the development of such infrastructures in the region.

The event will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and funding agencies to discuss successful collaboration models, funding strategies, and case studies from EU member states and Western Balkans countries. The goal of the discussion is to identify concrete steps to strengthen industry-driven research and the development of an innovation-based economy in the Western Balkans region.

You can find the preliminary agenda here,  while registration is available through this link. Applications are open until the end of April.

What are technology-oriented research infrastructures?

Technology-oriented research infrastructures are specialized facilities designed to support research and development (R&D) activities, with a focus on industrial application and commercialization. These infrastructures play a key role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and implementing smart specialization strategies (S3).

They are typically established through collaboration between government institutions, the academic sector, and private industry to address specific technological challenges, develop innovative solutions, and strengthen regional and national economies. One of the best examples are the Fraunhofer Institutes in Germany, which focus on applied research in areas such as manufacturing, IT, renewable energy, healthcare, and more.

By providing state-of-the-art capabilities, facilitating technology transfer, and fostering innovation, these infrastructures enhance industry competitiveness while contributing to the development of skills and workforce training. In this way, they ensure a highly skilled labor market aligned with industry needs, creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth.

More information about the event can be found here.