Event 1: Added Value of Collaboration between ECoC and Businesses

The meeting of partners from past and future European Capitals of Culture, held on November 15, 2024, focused on the ECoCNetwork project, funded through the Interreg Italy-Slovenia program. The project aims to promote cross-border cooperation and the development of innovative cultural initiatives in preparation for the European Capital of Culture Nova Gorica and Gorizia 2025. Special emphasis was placed on fostering partnerships between the cultural sector, businesses, and business-support organizations. 

The ECoCNetwork project, running from April 2024 to March 2026, is led by the Primorska Technology Park. A partner in the project is the Slovene Regional Economic Union (SDGZ-URES). By connecting participating partners – Bad Ischl, Austria; Tartu, Estonia; Bodø, Norway; Chemnitz, Germany; Nova Gorica, Slovenia; Oulu, Finland; Évora, Portugal; and Matera Basilicata, Italy – the project will offer best practices and create a dynamic and future-oriented community and region. This event focused on learning about ECoC collaboration with businesses. 

Key Highlights

  1. Sharing Best Practices of Past ECoCs
    • Representatives from Bad Ischl (Austria), Matera (Italy), and Bodø (Norway) presented successful models of collaboration with local businesses, including establishing partnerships for financial support and project development. 
    • The “Made in Basilicata” project from Matera supported 27 small cultural and creative enterprises, enabling over 300 original artworks and fostering sustainable growth through co-creation. 
  2. Collaboration of Future ECoCs
    • Nova Gorica-Gorizia (Slovenia) and Oulu (Finland) emphasized the importance of strategic alliances with businesses, particularly in technology, tourism, and creative industries. Representatives highlighted the need for clear communication of the value of collaboration for businesses, such as promotion, access to new markets, and innovation opportunities. 
  3. Business Sector Experiences
    • Companies like Arctur shared positive impacts of working with ECoCs, including enhanced visibility, initiation of cross-border projects, and economic growth. The example of Matera ECoC2019 demonstrated that collaboration can lead to lasting changes, such as transforming organizations into more sustainable models. 
  4. Challenges and Solutions
    • Discussions highlighted barriers like bureaucracy and a lack of business interest. Proposed solutions included early stakeholder engagement, more targeted strategic partners, and simplified administrative procedures. 

Conclusions and Recommendations

  • Connecting Culture and Economy: Building sustainable partnerships between cultural initiatives and businesses enhances project visibility and opens new business opportunities. 
  • Measuring Impact: Evaluating the economic and cultural impact of ECoC projects is crucial for ensuring long-term support and broader reach. 
  • Promoting Innovation: Integrating arts and technology fosters creativity and connects different sectors, expanding the impact of projects. 

The event marked a step forward in building a more connected network of European Capitals of Culture, where collaboration with businesses represents a key element for the long-term success and sustainability of projects.