The memorandum is aimed at increasing the convergence between Romania’s North-East region and the EU initiatives, with a view to contribute to the improving of the performance of the manufacturing industry. Furthermore, the Memorandum aims to increase the number of engaged regional stakeholders and will contribute to the enhanced interaction between EIT Manufacturing and the Romanian producers within the industry.

The signing of the Memorandum builds upon the idea that innovation, education and start-up creation are among the prerequisites for the sustainable development of the country. In the framework of this cooperation, several projects and activities will be implemented, with a view to transform the manufacturing industry in the North-East region. Furthermore, this cooperation will contribute to the increase of citizens’ knowledge and awareness on EIT’s Regional Innovation Scheme (RIS) and the opportunities that it provides. The main cooperation instruments and direction of action outlined in the Memorandum will be annually revised by both parties, in order to increase the efficiency of the partnership.

The Director General of the North-East Regional Development Agency, Mr. Vasile Asandei outlined the wide range of opportunities that this partnership will generate, in the light of the fact that innovation, smart specialisation, and sustainable socio-economic development represent key priorities for the North-East RDA. Furthermore, the Director highlighted that the partnership with EIT consulting will contribute to the addressing of the challenges that the companies, entrepreneurs and researchers from the North-East region are facing.

EIT (European Institute of Innovation and Technology) Manufacturing was established in 2019 and it contributes to making Europe’s manufacturing sector more competitive and sustainable. Furthermore, EIT Manufacturing brings together an increasing network of top-tier industrial partners, academic and research institutions, in addition to scaleups, startups and SMEs. Through its vision and mission, EIT Manufacturing contributes towards bridging the gap between the fields of education, business creation, and innovation.

The EIT Manufacturing Hub in Romania is coordinated by Iceberg+, a leading consultancy that fosters innovation and delivers a wide array of services, including on startup incubation, digitalization and technological advancement. The Iceberg+ has a wide experience in projects on both EU and national level and ongoing represents EIT Manufacturing’s interests in Romania.

More info can be found here (in Romanian).