On Tuesday, 24th September 2024, the ENTRA Laboratory successfully organized the 1st Local Stakeholder Meeting of the COMMIT Project, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for supporting SMEs during the region’s transition to a low-carbon economy. The meeting took place online and attracted a diverse group of participants, including representatives from public authorities, chambers of commerce, academic experts, NGOs, and regional authorities.
Opening Remarks
The meeting commenced with opening remarks from Panagiotis Plakentas, Mayor of Eordaia Municipality, and Associate Professor Lefteris Topaloglou, Director of the Institute of Energy Development & Transition to Post-Lignite Era and Head of ENTRA Laboratory. Both emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the challenges that SMEs face during the transition, highlighting the region’s potential to become a hub for green entrepreneurship and innovation.
Presentations
Several insightful presentations followed, each addressing critical aspects of the transition process:
- Despoina Kanteler, Research Associate at ENTRA Lab, presented the Institute of Energy Development & Transition to Post-Lignite Era and the Laboratory of Energy Transition & Development Transformation, outlining their pivotal role in supporting the local community through this period of industrial transformation.
- Fenia Pliatsika, PhD Candidate at ENTRA Lab, provided a brief presentation of the COMMIT Project, discussing its objectives to enhance SME access to information, finance, technology, and skills to better adapt to the demands of a low-carbon economy.
- Konstantina Nikolaidou, PhD Candidate at ENTRA Lab, delivered a presentation on Support to SMEs through the Just Transition Development Programme, highlighting specific tools and funding opportunities available to local businesses during this transitional phase.
Interactive Discussion
An interactive discussion followed, moderated by Associate Professor Lefteris Topaloglou. Stakeholders explored several key questions aimed at understanding the challenges and opportunities of the just energy transition in Western Macedonia:
- What are the key elements for a successful just energy transition that enhance competitiveness in the region?
- How can national, regional, and local authorities strengthen the investment and entrepreneurship culture during the transition?
- What are the region’s thematic advantages and key assets that can drive entrepreneurship and innovation?
- What changes are needed in SMEs to address the challenges faced by local communities due to the energy transition?
Stakeholders emphasized the importance of fostering innovation, providing targeted support for SMEs, and enhancing collaboration between local and regional actors to ensure a smooth and inclusive transition.
Conclusions and Next Steps
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continued dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders involved. The next steps will focus on deepening support for SMEs, refining strategies for regional competitiveness, and exploring further opportunities for green investment and sustainable development.
The 1st Local Stakeholder Meeting successfully laid the groundwork for future initiatives and partnerships within the framework of the COMMIT Project, ensuring that SMEs in Western Macedonia can thrive in the evolving low-carbon economy.
This meeting marked an important milestone for the COMMIT Project, as we continue to work together with stakeholders to create a sustainable and resilient future for the region.
For more information about the COMMIT Project, visit here. (https://www.interregeurope.eu/commit)