Input Paper on Cluster Collaboration Lab (C2Lab): Esbjerg, Denmark

The primary purpose of this Input Paper is to provide relevant information that supportsthe innovative efforts of the participants in the Cluster Collaboration Lab (C2Lab) taking place in Esbjerg, Denmark, on 6-7 May 2025. The C2Labs offer a valuable opportunity for participants from cluster organisations, companies, research organisations, civil society, and other interested parties to discover potential partners for collaboration, advance project concepts and create business cases for innovative solutions and the development of joint applications for European funding calls. The ideas for projects presented at this C2Lab aim to strengthen the EU Twin Transition and enhance the resilience and competitiveness of the European industry. At the event in Esbjerg, joint project creation will focus on energy transition to address key challenges in the green transition. Participants will collaborate and discuss project ideas on fostering the clean energy transition, clean technologies and recycling, as well as the linkages in areas such as digital solutions, smart energy, and cybersecurity. By fostering synergies among clusters, businesses, and research institutions, the C2Lab aims to accelerate the creation of clean energy solutions that support Europe's green and twin transition objectives. Given the above, the central objective of this paper is to offer suitable assistance and practical guidance for the development and implementation of innovative projects that foster greener, more digital, and resilient economies. Specifically, it provides insights into relevant funding opportunities, strategic priorities, and collaboration mechanisms that can help participants refine their project ideas and bring them closer to implementation. 

• Chapter 1 examines Denmark’s position in the green transition, highlighting six key challenges, namely: Clean Energy Transition, Clean Technologies, Recycling and Circularity, Smart Energy, Digitalisation, and Cybersecurity. Furthermore, the role of clusters in the green transition is highlighted. 

• Chapter 2 provides a brief economic profile of Denmark, offering insights into its key economic indicators, green economy, innovation ecosystems, and industrial clusters. This contextual overview helps to frame the discussion on clean energy innovations and collaboration within Denmark’s broader economic landscape. 

• Chapter 3 outlines the key steps involved in developing a successful project proposal. Building on this, Chapters 4 and 5 explore how to turn clean energy project ideas into actionable initiatives. 

• Chapter 4 outlines public funding opportunities at European, national, and intergovernmental levels, including relevant programmes, calls for proposals, and support mechanisms. • Chapter 5 covers private funding options such as venture capital, business angels, banks, and impact investors to help bring clean energy innovations from research to commercialisation