Clusters Across Europe Gather in Copenhagen to Accelerate the Green Transition

Industry clusters from across Europe came together on June 10th, 2025, in Copenhagen for the “Unlock Green Innovation for Clusters” workshop, hosted by the ENDURANCE project. Held at BLOXHUB, a hub for sustainable urban development, the hybrid event brought together 53 sustainability experts, cluster managers, SMEs and regional development professionals to explore how clusters can lead Europe’s shift toward a green and circular economy.

The workshop featured keynote insights from Dr. Erwan Mouazan (University of Vaasa), Raquel Ortega Martínez (AMUEBLA), Scott Grønnegaard Allison (CLEAN), Bailey Lähdesmäki (Savonia University of Applied Sciences), Tiina Haatainen (Kuopio Water Cluster), and Heikki Sirviö (North Savo Regional Council), who shared practical experiences and challenges in regional innovation ecosystems.

Speakers emphasized that clusters are uniquely positioned to bridge policy, research, and industry, making them critical agents in Europe’s path to climate neutrality. Presenters from Finland’s North Savo region underscored how regional specializations in areas like water technology and bioeconomy are being leveraged to develop innovative, green business solutions.

Hands-On Tools for Green Innovation

Online attendees joined the morning session remotely, where the ENDURANCE team introduced the project’s objectives and walked participants through its acceleration scenarios. At the heart of the event was the presentation of the ENDURANCE Green Acceleration Methodology, a structured set of tools and resources designed to help clusters guide SMEs and startups through the green transition. During the second part of the workshop, face-to-face participants engaged in group exercises using a simulated case study, “FurniCraft,” a fictional furniture company transitioning to a circular model. The interactive session enabled participants to apply the following tools in real time and reflect on their applicability in their own regions and sectors:

• Ecosystem Mapping, to identify and mobilize regional actors.
• Value Mapping, to align sustainable business models with stakeholder needs.
• The Sustainable Business Model Canvas, tailored to cluster contexts.

These tools are part of a broader support package developed by the ENDURANCE project, which also includes a methodology handbook, a set of learning materials, an audiovisual kit, a facilitator’s guide, and an upcoming policy paper aimed at strengthening EU policy frameworks for cluster-based green innovation.

As the EU intensifies efforts to meet Green Deal targets, the ENDURANCE project aims to ensure that no cluster is left behind, equipping them with knowledge, tools, and peer-to-peer support to navigate the complex transition ahead.