In July 2025, the European Commission proposed the European Competitiveness Fund – a new instrument that represents a significant shift in how the EU will support innovation, industrial resilience, and technological leadership beyond 2027. As a flagship element of the proposed EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034, the Fund will bring together diverse funding programmes into a single, strategic investment vehicle. It is designed to drive Europe’s clean transition and industrial decarbonisation, foster digital leadership, advance health, biotechnology, agriculture, and the bioeconomy, and strengthen resilience, the defence industry, and space capabilities. Cluster organisations are expected to play an important role in achieving these objectives. 

To explore the opportunities for clusters, the European Cluster Collaboration Platform, on behalf of the European Commission, will host the EU Clusters Talk: “Clusters and the European Competitiveness Fund: Future Roles and Opportunities” on 24 September, from 08:30 to 09:45 CET. This session will outline the main features of the Competitiveness Fund and discuss how clusters can contribute to – and benefit from – its implementation.

REGISTRATION

This event is part of regular online meetings brought to the cluster community by the European Cluster Collaboration Platform. They offer up-to-date insights into the latest industrial policies and clusters’ involvement, projects and best practices, the latest ECCP news, and funding opportunities. The EU Clusters Talks are a space to exchange knowledge and to discuss cluster-relevant topics, which will change with every meeting.

Registration for this event is mandatory before 23 September 23:59 CET. This event is open to participants from the EU/COSME/SMP countries. Approval will be given on an individual basis.