What we do
Knowledge Exchange Platform
The SEDEC commission manages the Knowledge Exchange Platform (KEP), in cooperation with the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation. The platform promotes the exchange of new R&I solutions and best practices by organising seminars in Brussels and peer-to-peer events in the regions, and hosting showcasing events.
Based on flexible cooperation, the KEP enables efficient dialogue with European cities and regions on research and innovation issues, and an effective transfer of expertise between local innovation ecosystems, including business, universities and individual citizens.
Following the adoption of the Joint Action Plan in November 2020 with Commissioner Gabriel’s services, the project was upgraded to a strategic level. KEP 2.0 is aligned with the renewed European Research Area initiative and linked to the implementation of the Horizon Europe programme.
Joint Action Plan
Under the Joint Action Plan, the SEDEC commission works closely with the JRC on Partnerships for Regional Innovation which aim to equip the participating regions with tools and methodology for aligning their innovation strategies with the objective of sustainability across policy areas, programmes and funds.
Enhanced cooperation
Furthermore, the SEDEC commission works closely with the European Commission’s Directorate for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion (DG EMPL) on various topics, as agreed in the Action Plan for Enhanced Cooperation between them. It sets out the main policy areas for intensified collaboration such as the Skills Agenda and the European Pillar of Social Rights and the main instruments to be used. Joint CoR-European Alliance of Apprenticeships (EAfA) activities – in areas including apprenticeships and vocational education and training – are also managed by SEDEC.
The key objective of the cooperation is to strengthen political dialogue between the European Commission and EU local and regional governments and ultimately improve related policies that foster economic and social well-being.
