On December 4th, Brussels became the hub of creativity and collaboration as representatives from across Europe gathered for the launch of the CR.EU Creativity Europe Meta-cluster. This groundbreaking initiative aims to unify cultural heritage and creative industries across the continent, fostering innovation, sustainability, and collaboration on an unprecedented scale. As a founding member, OpenHub Creative Cluster is proud to play an important role in this transformative journey.
What Is the CR.EU Meta-Cluster?
The CR.EU Creativity Europe Meta-cluster is an open, inclusive network that connects regional and national clusters with key stakeholders like businesses, universities, and policymakers. Its mission is clear: to create a vibrant ecosystem that drives innovation, strengthens Europe’s cultural and creative industries (CCI), and enhances its global competitiveness.
This vision is championed by its 10 founding members, representing a diverse range of regions and expertise:
- Venetian Cluster (Italy)
- Basilicata Creativa (Italy)
- IDiA (Spain)
- Club des Districts Industriels français association (Cdif) (France)
- Baltic Film & Creative Tech Cluster (Bfct) (Lithuania)
- Innoskart (Hungary)
- Cluster Twist asbl (Belgium)
- Athena Research Center (Greece)
- German-Italian Chamber of Commerce Italcam (Germany)
- OpenHub Creative Cluster (Romania)
Together, these organizations aim to expand the Meta-cluster to at least 20 countries by 2025, establishing a robust and inclusive network across Europe.
A Journey rooted in collaboration
The Meta-cluster builds on the foundations of CREATHRIV-EU and FRIEND CCI, two Eurocluster programs designed to strengthen Europe’s creative industries:
- CREATHRIVE focuses on empowering cultural enterprises, enhancing their resilience and economic impact.
- FRIEND CCI emphasizes fostering innovation and sustainability, leveraging cross-sector partnerships to maximize the potential of creative industries.
The initiative officially began on May 7, 2023, during the European Cluster Conference, when founding members signed the partnership agreement. The December 4th event marks the next major milestone in this collaborative journey.
The Brussels launch event brought together leaders from European institutions, clusters, and industries to emphasize the Meta-cluster’s importance:
- Luca Perego, Head of the European Commission’s DG for Culture and Innovation, highlighted, “Creating networks between universities, businesses, and research institutions is essential for fostering innovation and competitiveness.”
- Igor Kalinic, Head of Competitiveness and Internationalization at EISMEA, emphasized, “The Meta-cluster plays a crucial role in driving innovation, not only within cultural and creative industries but also in other productive sectors.”
Why it matters
Europe’s cultural and creative industries contribute a remarkable 15% to the continent’s GDP, making them a cornerstone of its economy and identity. The CR.EU Meta-cluster seeks to amplify this impact by:
- Driving collaboration across borders.
- Addressing challenges and opportunities within the CCI sector.
- Promoting digital transformation and sustainable practices.
This effort ensures Europe’s cultural heritage and creative industries continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.
What’s next?
The Meta-cluster is set to open an office in Brussels, serving as a hub for all members and a direct link to European institutions. Key strategic objectives include:
- Facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity-building programs.
- Advocating for policies that support the growth of creative industries.
- Promoting sustainable and innovative practices through cross-sector collaborations.
By 2025, the Meta-cluster aims to establish a presence in 20 countries, expanding its reach and impact across Europe.
OpenHub Creative Cluster’s Role
As a founding member, OpenHub Creative Cluster is deeply committed to shaping this ambitious vision. Through initiatives in capacity building, advocacy, and innovation, OpenHub is driving the future of cultural and creative industries in Romania and beyond.
With the CR.EU Creativity Europe Meta-cluster, we are not just envisioning the future—we are creating it. Together, we’re building a resilient, innovative, and inclusive European ecosystem where culture and creativity thrive.
