On September 4th and 5th, RIC visited the Polo Meccatronica Valley in Termini Imerese, Sicily, alongside the rest of the partners from the Allon_I3 project from across Europe, to explore new strategies to support startups and regional growth. The Allon I3 project is funded by the European Union and aims to create an interconnected network of regional ecosystems to foster sustainable development, digitalisation and innovation in less developed EU regions. The project involves a total of seven partners from all over Europe, including Bulgaria, Italy, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus and Denmark.
The event included foreign investors, local companies and Sicilian startups, creating networking and partnership opportunities. NorBAN , the Norwegian technical partner, will offer support to investors and business angels , connecting entrepreneurs and financiers. The Allon I3 project seeks to enhance the ability of less developed regions to collaborate with more advanced areas. The gathering at Polo Meccatronica Valley presents a prime opportunity for Sicilian enterprises to showcase their innovative concepts to international investors.
The study visit took place on September 4th at the hub, followed by a series of pitches from three selected startups on September 5th. These meetings were complemented by a networking session at the Cantieri culturali della Zisa, aimed at fostering dialogue between institutions, businesses, investors, and project partners. The support of Norway Business Angels was instrumental in showcasing the potential of Sicilian startups.
Sicily, along with regions like Gabrovo in Bulgaria and Alentejo in Portugal, face socio-economic challenges related to low innovation levels and reduced economic competitiveness. These areas are also grappling with depopulation and population aging. The Allon I3 project seeks to address these issues by fostering interregional cooperation and creating opportunities for economic development through investments in innovation and green technologies.
The meeting in Termini Imerese, attended by international partners and foreign investors, presented a prime opportunity for Sicilian startups and companies to gain visibility and attract new investments.
CONTACTS: n.n.hinkova@gmail.com