On November 19, 2024, the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator hosted a highly successful workshop titled “How Incubators and Accelerators Can Build Corporate Open Innovation Challenges”. The event was part of the EBN Techcamp, co-organized by EBN and Furthr, and held at the prestigious Guinness Enterprise Centre in Dublin, Ireland.
The session attracted over 60 participants from 18 European countries, including representatives from business incubators, accelerators, universities, and corporates.
Led by Paco Prieto, Co-Director of the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, and supported by Jesús de la Quintana from Tecnalia, the workshop offered participants an interactive and practical experience. Attendees explored how open innovation could optimize corporate processes, particularly through the lens of digital transformation challenges.
Participants were divided into four groups comprising business support organizations during the workshop. Each group collaborated to identify key corporate inefficiencies, explore relevant technologies, and develop potential solutions to drive digital transformation. The focus was on envisioning how companies can become more efficient and sustainable over the next decade.
The session also introduced participants to a comprehensive framework of methodologies, processes, and tools for engaging corporates in defining their digital transformation challenges. These challenges, designed to be addressed by innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, represent a cornerstone of effective open innovation.
This dynamic and forward-thinking workshop emphasized the strategic role of incubators and accelerators in fostering top-tier open innovation projects. Through initiatives like the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, participants gained valuable insights into shaping impactful collaborations with corporate partners, paving the way for transformative digital solutions.
Paco Prieto, Co-Director of the EU-LAC Digital Accelerator, shared his thoughts on the recent Dublin workshop:
”The experience at the Dublin workshop has been truly enriching and satisfying. We shared innovative knowledge and strategies and learned from each other in a collaborative and stimulating environment. I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the participants and organizers. The framework provided by EBN was exceptional, fostering a space where creativity and innovation thrived. The brilliant organization and constant support were fundamental to the success of this event. I am convinced that the learnings and connections made here will have a lasting impact on our future open innovation initiatives. Thank you all for making this workshop an unforgettable experience!”
