Following the assessment and benchmarking analysis undertaken in WP3, the next step for GreenStep is to leverage the collected information, reinforce cooperation among regions and their respective stakeholders in the Q-helix, and define a common roadmap that fosters the green and digital transition through innovation.

Thus, the backbone of WP4 is to build a solid ecosystem among the eight participating regions, in which knowledge transfer, best practices exchange, mutual learning, alignment of S3 roadmaps, and matching between supply-side competencies and demand-driven business opportunities are facilitated.

The Advanced Manufacturing Cluster of the Metal Industry of Asturias, FEMETALiNDUSTRY, is the project partner leading WP4. FEMETALiNDUSTRY is a multidisciplinary Cluster born in 2016 as a non-profit and voluntary membership group. Since then, the cluster positioned itself within the main business and institutional networks related to its sphere of influence at a regional level as a reference agent, facilitating the transformation of advanced industry in Asturias. FEMETALiNDUSTRY is recognised with the GOLD Label “Excel in Cluster Excellence" by the European Secretariat for Cluster Analysis.

Besides, the Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation (CXI), a research centre part of the Technical University of Liberec (TUL), will support FEMETALiNDUSTRY in developing the knowledge transfer action plan. CIX-TUL has 12 years of existence and accounts for approximately 100 research projects per year. The Institute provides research and development services in nanomaterials, engineering, and software solutions, including analysis, development, and manufacturing of prototypes, as well as performance of tests, trials, and measurements at various stages of development. 

WP4 has already begun its work, undertaking a mapping exercise of supply-side competencies in less developed regions (Central and Western Lithuania, Northern Portugal, Liberec Region) to identify strengths and weaknesses, particularly in the areas of skilled talent attraction and adaptation capacity to evolving technological demands and market trends. Numerous individual interviews with key stakeholders in the Q-helix were conducted, and the results of this in-depth analysis were compiled in the document D4.1 Mapping Supply Competencies in Less Developed Regions.