Launch of the SMARCO Skills Partnership for Smart Communities

The SMARCO project is launching the Smart Communities Skills Partnership, a collaborative initiative bringing together public authorities, industry, SMEs, education and training providers, research organisations, and civil society to strengthen skills development for smart communities across Europe.

The Partnership aims to address digital, green, and societal transitions by fostering cooperation on emerging skills needs, supporting upskilling and reskilling, and building a stronger skills ecosystem for the future.

The launch event will take place online on 7 July 2026, from 15:00 to 16:30 CEST and will present the Partnership’s vision, objectives, governance, and the SMARCO Skills Strategy, which provides the roadmap for identifying skills gaps and supporting workforce development.

Participants will also have the opportunity to explore future engagement opportunities, including training programmes, pilot initiatives, and collaborative activities within the SMARCO network.

AGENDA

15:00 – 15:10 | Welcome and Introduction

• Caterina Bortolaso, European DIGITAL SME Alliance

15:10 – 15:25 – Keynote Speech: Skills as a Catalyst for Smart Communities 

15:25 – 15:40 | Introducing the SMARCO Skills Partnership

• Lina Nardone, European DIGITAL SME Alliance

15:40 – 15:55 | The SMARCO Skills Strategy: A Roadmap for Action

• Caterina Bortolaso, European DIGITAL SME Alliance

15:55 – 16:25 | Panel Discussion: Building Skills for Smart Communities Together

16:25 – 16:30 | Closing Remarks