European Regions Research and Innovation Network relaunch event - Brussels, 19 October

Brussels, 13 October 2006

After a six month period of deep re-thinking, a re-launch event will open the "new era" of the European Regions Research and Innovation Network.

European Regions Research and Innovation Network (ERRIN) started informally in 2001, initiated by West Midlands in Europe. By improving the coordination and communication between Brussels representations, ERRIN strengthens the cooperation and synergies between regions across Europe. From April 2004 to March 2006, ERRIN received support from the European Commission, DG RTD, through the Regions of Knowledge Pilot Action. This support has allowed the establishment of a platform for more than 200 Brussels-based regional actors in order to facilitate their common work to further engage their regional practitioners in research and innovation.

By becoming an ASBL (Association sans but lucrative - non for profit organisation) ERRIN is now moving towards an autonomous and sustainable network. To celebrate the re-start of ERRIN under a new conception, a re-launch event will take place on 19 October 2006.

The aim with the event is to outline the future of ERRIN and to gather regional representatives involved in Research and Innovation. This Relaunch Event, which symbolises ERRIN's new start, is a great opportunity for regions that want to take an active part in Research and Innovation to be fully involved. Moreover, giving an important room to practitioners from members' regions, ERRIN is a unique network making their involvement in European projects easier.

During the Relaunch Event, keynote speeches will be given stating the importance of innovation for regional development within the European Community. Last but not least, this meeting will also be a great opportunity to meet practitioners and representatives from all over Europe.

The Event will take place at "Latour de Frein" (Brussels) on 19 October 2006 from 3.30 pm and a free buss service will be provided to facilitate participation.

For more information and registration, please contact ERRIN's secretariat at communication@errin-brussels.org or call 0032 (0) 2 238 10 47.