Periodic Reporting for period 1 - IDEALIST (3 InDustrial Ecosystems tAckLing supply chains dISrupTions and boosting advanced technologies uptake)
Reporting period: 2023-12-01 to 2025-05-31
The overall objective of "3 InDustrial Ecosystems tAckLing supply chain dISrupTions and driving the adoption of advanced technologies" (IDEALIST) is to support SMEs in three key industrial ecosystems—1) Energy-intensive industries, 2) Aerospace & Defence, and 3) Mobility, Transport & Automotive—in adapting to rapid, unexpected developments like COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine. These sectors are vital to the EU economy and face shared challenges: transitioning to sustainability, competitiveness amid scarce raw materials, high energy prices, and changing consumption patterns.
IDEALIST empowers SMEs to become active players in these shifts through three pillars: 1) Strategic Foresight, 2) Technology Uptake, and 3) Supply Chain Resilience. This includes pilot projects using Hack&Match methodology to promote cross-ecosystem collaboration, supported by the AGORA platform led by EIT Manufacturing. The project involves 14 partners from 6 EU countries and Ukraine, representing thousands of manufacturing SMEs, and will run for 36 months with a €2.3M budget.
IDEALIST empowers SMEs to become active players in these shifts through three pillars: 1) Strategic Foresight, 2) Technology Uptake, and 3) Supply Chain Resilience. This includes pilot projects using Hack&Match methodology to promote cross-ecosystem collaboration, supported by the AGORA platform led by EIT Manufacturing. The project involves 14 partners from 6 EU countries and Ukraine, representing thousands of manufacturing SMEs, and will run for 36 months with a €2.3M budget.
Over the first 18 months, the project delivered key advances in foresight, technology mapping, and SME engagement across European industrial ecosystems.
A collaborative foresight methodology was developed and validated through interviews and pilot testing. From months 7 to 12, three cross-sectoral focus groups applied this approach to identify emerging trends. Their work resulted in a comprehensive report and ecosystem-specific maps outlining 24 key drivers and 60 potential disruptions likely to shape the future of European industries.
In parallel, critical technologies were identified and categorised through expert consultation. These insights were consolidated into the Innovation Handbook, which includes a dynamic mapping of technology-oriented SMEs—regularly updated to reflect ongoing developments. A structured framework was also introduced to collect impactful use cases from across the ecosystem, supporting future validation and replication.
A literature review provided insights into EU twin transition policies and the main barriers to technology adoption by industry. Further research assessed the resilience of supply chains by identifying alternative suppliers for critical materials and components. Additionally, over 30 European umbrella organisations were mapped as potential collaborators for technology deployment and innovation alignment.
To support technology uptake, clusters engaged SMEs through targeted interviews, ecosystem mapping, and preparation of five innovation-driven Hack&Match events. Two international Learning Expeditions were completed, offering direct exposure to promising technologies and facilitating cross-border collaboration.
These activities have created a strong foundation for guiding technology adoption in European industries—combining foresight tools, SME-driven innovation, and expert input to support strategic decision-making and long-term transformation.
A collaborative foresight methodology was developed and validated through interviews and pilot testing. From months 7 to 12, three cross-sectoral focus groups applied this approach to identify emerging trends. Their work resulted in a comprehensive report and ecosystem-specific maps outlining 24 key drivers and 60 potential disruptions likely to shape the future of European industries.
In parallel, critical technologies were identified and categorised through expert consultation. These insights were consolidated into the Innovation Handbook, which includes a dynamic mapping of technology-oriented SMEs—regularly updated to reflect ongoing developments. A structured framework was also introduced to collect impactful use cases from across the ecosystem, supporting future validation and replication.
A literature review provided insights into EU twin transition policies and the main barriers to technology adoption by industry. Further research assessed the resilience of supply chains by identifying alternative suppliers for critical materials and components. Additionally, over 30 European umbrella organisations were mapped as potential collaborators for technology deployment and innovation alignment.
To support technology uptake, clusters engaged SMEs through targeted interviews, ecosystem mapping, and preparation of five innovation-driven Hack&Match events. Two international Learning Expeditions were completed, offering direct exposure to promising technologies and facilitating cross-border collaboration.
These activities have created a strong foundation for guiding technology adoption in European industries—combining foresight tools, SME-driven innovation, and expert input to support strategic decision-making and long-term transformation.
IDEALIST will deliver a foresight model to help at least 150 companies anticipate disruptions and tech opportunities. AGORA will support supply chain diversification and help manufacturers connect with tech-savvy SMEs. Learning expeditions and outreach actions will boost access to alternate suppliers.
Three pilot projects will foster collaboration between traditional and tech SMEs via Hack&Match. Cluster networks will activate matchmaking, workshops, and webinars to accelerate AT adoption and market growth for tech providers.
The project also promotes Sustainable and Circular-Based Technologies (SBTs) to improve energy and material efficiency, lower emissions, and support Industry 5.0. Real use cases will be presented to show the environmental and business value.
Three pilot projects will foster collaboration between traditional and tech SMEs via Hack&Match. Cluster networks will activate matchmaking, workshops, and webinars to accelerate AT adoption and market growth for tech providers.
The project also promotes Sustainable and Circular-Based Technologies (SBTs) to improve energy and material efficiency, lower emissions, and support Industry 5.0. Real use cases will be presented to show the environmental and business value.