The EIC Communities project aims to overcome the challenge of limited visibility and impact that often hinders innovative projects from realizing their full potential. By establishing three thematic Communities of Practice (CoP)—focused on Cleantech, industry, and health sectors—the project seeks to enhance synergies and foster innovation breakthroughs. These Communities will facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration through a range of activities, such as matchmaking sessions, workshops, and interactive academies. This approach is designed to encourage interactions across different EIC portfolios, building sustainable networks that drive technological advancements and future innovations.
The first reporting period has focused on establishing the three CoPs, with current participation of 181 members (52 members in Health, 75 in Cleantech, and 54 in Industry), from EIC projects selected by EIC Programme Managers from their portfolios and external stakeholders. These communities facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration, promote innovation, and encourage exchanges across thematic areas through various activities such as webinars, pitching sessions, and workshops. Stakeholders from diverse sectors—ranging from research institutions to industry and investors—actively contribute to the CoPs, enabling knowledge sharing, innovation, and the creation of new connections within the EIC deep tech landscape. The first activity for the engagement was the organization of community-building workshops that officially launched the CoPs. These workshops provided platforms for project beneficiaries and stakeholders to interact, discuss their needs and challenges, and identify collaborative opportunities. Additionally, specific webinars were organized to address challenges within each CoP, and bilateral meetings were held to solidify relationships and ensure ongoing commitment from EIC PMs. The project also launched the DEEPSYNC platform, an online space designed to enhance engagement and visibility of the CoPs and their members.
The project has also been emphasizing inclusivity and gender diversity in its activities. It has implemented a stakeholder engagement strategy, produced communication materials, and activated social media campaigns to maximize the impact and visibility of EIC portfolios. Future activities include the development of roadmaps for deep tech breakthroughs, further CoP-building activities, and strategic efforts to align stakeholders' interests across the European deep tech ecosystem.
