The E³UDRES² Spring Summit 2025, held in Enschede, Netherlands from March 17-21, brought together international stakeholders, researchers, policymakers, students, and industry leaders to explore the future of regional innovation, higher education, and applied research. Hosted by Saxion University of Applied Sciences, a member of the E³UDRES² alliance, this dynamic five-day event highlighted the power of deep-tech innovation in shaping regional development.
International Stakeholders Forum
The summit kicked off with an engaging presentation from professor Abeje Mersha from the Smart Mechatronics and Robotics Research Group. This session featured the research group, followed by an exclusive tour of their state-of-the-art facilities. Afterwards, an inspiring keynote by Pedro Dominguinhos, Director of the Recovery and Resilience Fund in Portugal, took place followed by a company visit showcasing deep-tech innovations from the region. This forum set the stage for discussing sustainable solutions and innovation at the intersection of industry and policy. Attendees learned how their collaboration with E³UDRES² enhances research, fosters interdisciplinary innovation, and strengthens efforts to address global challenges. During a Science Festival, attendees had the chance to explore the E³UDRES² Innovation Hubs, which are playing a pivotal role in advancing regional development. The Science Festival allowed participants to witness firsthand the impact of cutting-edge research and technology. E³UDRES² is planning to establish innovation hubs across all nine regions, fostering regional collaboration and innovation. An overview of the four Prospective Applied Centers of Excellence within E³UDRES² was presented, where specialized expertise and cutting-edge research come together.
Inspiring keynotes & embracing individuality
Erwin Hoogland, Regional Minister, delivered an insightful keynote on driving innovation within regions, while Johan de Heer, director of research and innovation at Thales, spoke about the evolving relationship between humans and artificial intelligence. He emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative environment for long-term regional success. Carole Basile, Dean of the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University (ASU), shared an inspirational keynote in future of education: leading for variance. She spoke about the critical role of the teacher and the realms of teaching and learning. Furthermore, she touched upon the future of education and her vision of the new generation of learners.
The E³UDRES² Spring Summit 2025 was a great platform for building international cooperation, enhancing university-industry partnerships, and promoting sustainable regional innovation. Discussions centered on how universities can adapt to future needs, collaborate more closely with industries, and create solutions that drive both social and economic growth. Deep-tech innovations were central to discussions on regional resilience and sustainability, with numerous breakthroughs presented during the summit. As a powerful symbol of growth, unity, and the role of smart technology in regional development, the central theme of the summit was embodied in the unveiling of a E³UDRES² plaque. This commemorative plaque, now permanently displayed at Saxion University of Applied Sciences, serves as a lasting reminder of the collaborative spirit and innovative efforts that defined the summit. The E³UDRES² team looks forward to seeing how the ideas, collaborations, and discussions from this summit will translate into real-world actions and solutions.
