The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) has officially launched its EIT Community Hub in Croatia, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem. The launch event, held on March 6, 2025, at the National and University Library in Zagreb, co-organized by the Ministry of Science, Education, and Youth, brought together key stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers, and representatives from academia. The hub, part of the EIT Regional Innovation Scheme (EIT RIS), aims to connect Croatian innovators with Europe’s largest innovation network, fostering collaboration, supporting startups, and accelerating digital and green transitions.

The conference was opened by Miro Hegedić, EIT Community Officer for Croatia, with welcome speeches by Ilaria Tagliavini, Head of the Innovation, Education, and Communication Department at EIT, Davor Ivo Stier, Member of the European Parliament, who addressed the attendees via video message, Hristo Hristov, Head of the Political Team at the European Commission Representation in Croatia, and Amalija Babić, Head of the Sector for the Scientific System and Technological Development at the Ministry of Science, Education, and Youth of the Republic of Croatia.

The event featured three expert panels and two success stories, showcasing how Croatian startups have benefited from EIT’s support. Discussions focused on strengthening the national innovation ecosystem, increasing access to funding, and fostering cooperation between businesses, academia, and public institutions. Panelists emphasized the importance of leveraging EU initiatives, such as Horizon Europe and EIT Jumpstarter, to help startups grow and scale internationally. The conference provided valuable networking opportunities for attendees, paving the way for future partnerships and investments in Croatia’s innovation sector.

Among the panelists were representatives from the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth and from the DIGIT project, actively contributing to discussions on Croatia’s innovation potential and startup growth:

Sanja Novak, from the Ministry of Science, Education, and Youth, participated in the panel “Increasing Innovation Efficiency of Innovation Ecosystem in Croatia,” highlighting strategies to enhance collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers.

Ante Lončar, Project Manager of the DIGIT project, took part in the panel “Croatian “Up-and-Comers”: How the Croatian Start-up Ecosystem Can Gain Forward Momentum,” sharing insights on strengthening Croatia’s startup scene and leveraging support programs.

The event provided a valuable platform for discussing innovation challenges, funding opportunities, and pathways to boost Croatia’s digital and entrepreneurial landscape.

A recording of the event is avaliable on this link.