
SCHEDULE LIST
Schedule
09:00 - 09:30
Registrations and Networking
09:30 - 09:45
Welcome Speech
Welcoming speech by Petar Gregurić, (CEO, STEMwise), epresentatives of the Croatian government and Zagreb City.
Petar Gregurić | STEMwise
Croatian Goverment Representative
Zagreb City Representative
Content
09:45 - 10:00
From National EU Funding Towards Horizon Europe
Why do some organizations effortlessly win Horizon Europe funding while others, experienced with national grants, consistently fail? The difference isn't better writing—it's a different mindset. This session decodes the 'excellence' and 'impact' philosophy at the heart of Europe's top-tier programmes. Gain the insider's perspective needed to transition from a successful national applicant to a sought-after European partner.

Speaker:
Petar Gregurić
CEO | STEMwise
10:00 - 10:15
From Principles to Practice: Implementing Responsible Research in the Balkan Region
Dr. Petar Vrgović will address the critical challenge of translating responsible research principles into tangible actions. He will share practical insights from his leading role in the REINFORCING project, established as a central European hub for Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI)

Speaker:
Petar Vrgović
Full Professor | Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad
10:15 - 11:15
The Pillars of Modern Research: Understanding ORRI and Open Science
Panel will explore the fundamental principles of Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI) and Open Science. The discussion will specifically address Croatia's national ORRI strategy, examining its development, implementation status, and relationship with broader European initiatives and best practices.
Daniel Spichtinger | Open Science Advisor
Ivan Marić | SRCE
Petar Vrgović | Reinforcing.eu
Deni Nurkić | Nuqleus
Nikola Mišković | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb
Lea Škorić | Head of Central Medical Library
11:15 - 11:30
Coffee Break
11:30 - 11:45
Zagreb's Success Stories & Innovations from Horizon Europe
This session will present successful Horizon Europe projects and practical innovations implemented in Zagreb. Discover how the city utilizes EU funding and acts as a pilot location for new solutions.

Speaker:
Darko Šiško
Assistant Head of Strategic Information and Research | Zagreb City
11:45 - 12:00
Urban Ecology: Making Cities Greener and More Liveable
This keynote will explore how initiatives such as Horizon Europe and the EU Missions can support the development of sustainable urban ecosystems that nurture both human and natural life. From an ecological perspective, we will discuss the added value these programs bring to European cities. Drawing on inspiring examples from around the world, we will highlight practical strategies that cities can adopt—such as implementing more green rooftops, expanding vertical gardens, and enhancing science communication—to become a greener, healthier, and more enjoyable city for all its residents.

Speaker:
Adriana Planinić
Scientific Manager | STEMwise
12:00 - 12:20
The RISE-IN Project: How Nature is Redefining Urban Resilience
What if our best defense against climate change isn't concrete, but nature itself? Join Reuben for a deep dive into RISE-IN, a groundbreaking Horizon Europe project asking this very question. Discover how six diverse cities—from Portugal to New Zealand—are implementing innovative Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to build powerful climate resilience. This session moves beyond theory to showcase the tangible co-benefits being unlocked, including enhanced biodiversity, financial returns, and new opportunities for smart, green infrastructure.

Speaker:
Reuben Barker
Architect / Director | EstraHub
12:20 - 13:15
How Horizon Europe is Cultivating Urban Sustainability
This panel will explore how cities can maximize Horizon Europe opportunities by engaging in innovative collaborations, including leveraging helix models. The discussion will highlight emerging opportunities for multi-stakeholder partnerships in urban innovation and clearly outline why it is in cities' strategic interest to actively participate. Join this session to understand how such collaborations can unlock new solutions, drive sustainable development, and help cities build a thriving innovation ecosystem with the support of Horizon Europe
Ana Pavičić Kaselj | Zagreb City Head of City Office for Economy, Environmental Sustainability and Strategic Planning
Marin Gregorović | Mayor of Cres
Dario Babić | Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences
Dani Ellis | Consultant at Rovesta
Velimir Šegon | Deputy Director at REGEA
Stjepan Mikac | Full professor at Faculty of forestry and wood technology
13:15 - 13:30
Decoding the EU Missions: The Vision for Net-Zero Cities
National Contact Point (NCP) for EU Missions, will demystify the ambitious EU Missions framework. He will address the core question: what does the European Union truly aim to achieve with its mission-oriented approach to innovation? With a special focus on the 'Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities' Mission, Ivan will outline the strategic vision and the ultimate goal of transforming urban centers into hubs of climate neutrality. This presentation will provide a clear understanding of the 'why' behind this major EU strategy and the opportunities it presents for cities to lead the green transition.

Speaker:
Ivan Munjin
Croatia NCP - EU Missions
13:30 - 14:15
Lunch Break
14:15 - 14:30
The Crowdhelix Ecosystem: Enhancing Connections and Open Innovation
The session will take a deep dive into the Crowdhelix ecosystem to describe its unique approach to building valuable connections and accelerating open innovation opportunities. Michael will describe the "Helix Methodology" which benefits from various enablers such as our proprietary platform connecting +14,800 experts across the 50 dedicated communities, the annual plan of training, knowledge sharing and matchmaking events, and Crowdhelix's unique dissemination approach to maximise the impact of innovative results and research outcomes.

Speaker:
Micheal Browne
CEO | Crowdhelix
14:30 - 15:00
Project ideas introduction
During this session, project coordinators will take the stage to individually showcase their innovative project ideas to all attendees. This unique opportunity allows for a direct and interactive presentation of their visions, highlighting the goals, potential impacts, and the collaborative opportunities each project offers.
Project idea owners
15:00 - 16:45
Brainstorming Sessions + Business Speed Dating
Interactive roundtables will be strategically organised to facilitate in-depth discussions on project ideas, potential collaborations and the unique contributions of each partner. Led by the STEMwise team, these discussions will be structured around a clearly defined agenda to achieve tangible results. At the same time, a business speed dating session will be organised to bring interested partners together for future collaboration.
16:45 - 17:00
Key Takeaways
Closing remarks of the Summit highlighting future perspectives.
Schedule
09:00 - 09:30
Registrations and Networking
09:30 - 09:45
Welcome Speech
Welcoming speech by Petar Gregurić, (CEO, STEMwise), epresentatives of the Croatian government and Zagreb City.
Petar Gregurić | STEMwise
Croatian Goverment Representative
Zagreb City Representative
Content
09:45 - 10:00
From National EU Funding Towards Horizon Europe
Why do some organizations effortlessly win Horizon Europe funding while others, experienced with national grants, consistently fail? The difference isn't better writing—it's a different mindset. This session decodes the 'excellence' and 'impact' philosophy at the heart of Europe's top-tier programmes. Gain the insider's perspective needed to transition from a successful national applicant to a sought-after European partner.

Speaker:
Petar Gregurić
CEO | STEMwise
10:00 - 10:15
From Principles to Practice: Implementing Responsible Research in the Balkan Region
Dr. Petar Vrgović will address the critical challenge of translating responsible research principles into tangible actions. He will share practical insights from his leading role in the REINFORCING project, established as a central European hub for Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI)

Speaker:
Petar Vrgović
Full Professor | Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad
10:15 - 11:15
The Pillars of Modern Research: Understanding ORRI and Open Science
Panel will explore the fundamental principles of Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI) and Open Science. The discussion will specifically address Croatia's national ORRI strategy, examining its development, implementation status, and relationship with broader European initiatives and best practices.
Daniel Spichtinger | Open Science Advisor
Ivan Marić | SRCE
Petar Vrgović | Reinforcing.eu
Deni Nurkić | Nuqleus
Nikola Mišković | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb
Lea Škorić | Head of Central Medical Library
11:15 - 11:30
Coffee Break
11:30 - 11:45
Zagreb's Success Stories & Innovations from Horizon Europe
This session will present successful Horizon Europe projects and practical innovations implemented in Zagreb. Discover how the city utilizes EU funding and acts as a pilot location for new solutions.

Speaker:
Darko Šiško
Assistant Head of Strategic Information and Research | Zagreb City
11:45 - 12:00
Urban Ecology: Making Cities Greener and More Liveable
This keynote will explore how initiatives such as Horizon Europe and the EU Missions can support the development of sustainable urban ecosystems that nurture both human and natural life. From an ecological perspective, we will discuss the added value these programs bring to European cities. Drawing on inspiring examples from around the world, we will highlight practical strategies that cities can adopt—such as implementing more green rooftops, expanding vertical gardens, and enhancing science communication—to become a greener, healthier, and more enjoyable city for all its residents.

Speaker:
Adriana Planinić
Scientific Manager | STEMwise
12:00 - 12:20
The RISE-IN Project: How Nature is Redefining Urban Resilience
What if our best defense against climate change isn't concrete, but nature itself? Join Reuben for a deep dive into RISE-IN, a groundbreaking Horizon Europe project asking this very question. Discover how six diverse cities—from Portugal to New Zealand—are implementing innovative Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to build powerful climate resilience. This session moves beyond theory to showcase the tangible co-benefits being unlocked, including enhanced biodiversity, financial returns, and new opportunities for smart, green infrastructure.

Speaker:
Reuben Barker
Architect / Director | EstraHub
12:20 - 13:15
How Horizon Europe is Cultivating Urban Sustainability
This panel will explore how cities can maximize Horizon Europe opportunities by engaging in innovative collaborations, including leveraging helix models. The discussion will highlight emerging opportunities for multi-stakeholder partnerships in urban innovation and clearly outline why it is in cities' strategic interest to actively participate. Join this session to understand how such collaborations can unlock new solutions, drive sustainable development, and help cities build a thriving innovation ecosystem with the support of Horizon Europe
Ana Pavičić Kaselj | Zagreb City Head of City Office for Economy, Environmental Sustainability and Strategic Planning
Marin Gregorović | Mayor of Cres
Dario Babić | Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences
Dani Ellis | Consultant at Rovesta
Velimir Šegon | Deputy Director at REGEA
Stjepan Mikac | Full professor at Faculty of forestry and wood technology
13:15 - 13:30
Decoding the EU Missions: The Vision for Net-Zero Cities
National Contact Point (NCP) for EU Missions, will demystify the ambitious EU Missions framework. He will address the core question: what does the European Union truly aim to achieve with its mission-oriented approach to innovation? With a special focus on the 'Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities' Mission, Ivan will outline the strategic vision and the ultimate goal of transforming urban centers into hubs of climate neutrality. This presentation will provide a clear understanding of the 'why' behind this major EU strategy and the opportunities it presents for cities to lead the green transition.

Speaker:
Ivan Munjin
Croatia NCP - EU Missions
13:30 - 14:15
Lunch Break
14:15 - 14:30
The Crowdhelix Ecosystem: Enhancing Connections and Open Innovation
The session will take a deep dive into the Crowdhelix ecosystem to describe its unique approach to building valuable connections and accelerating open innovation opportunities. Michael will describe the "Helix Methodology" which benefits from various enablers such as our proprietary platform connecting +14,800 experts across the 50 dedicated communities, the annual plan of training, knowledge sharing and matchmaking events, and Crowdhelix's unique dissemination approach to maximise the impact of innovative results and research outcomes.

Speaker:
Micheal Browne
CEO | Crowdhelix
14:30 - 15:00
Project ideas introduction
During this session, project coordinators will take the stage to individually showcase their innovative project ideas to all attendees. This unique opportunity allows for a direct and interactive presentation of their visions, highlighting the goals, potential impacts, and the collaborative opportunities each project offers.
Project idea owners
15:00 - 16:45
Brainstorming Sessions + Business Speed Dating
Interactive roundtables will be strategically organised to facilitate in-depth discussions on project ideas, potential collaborations and the unique contributions of each partner. Led by the STEMwise team, these discussions will be structured around a clearly defined agenda to achieve tangible results. At the same time, a business speed dating session will be organised to bring interested partners together for future collaboration.
16:45 - 17:00
Key Takeaways
Closing remarks of the Summit highlighting future perspectives.
Schedule
09:00 - 09:30
Registrations and Networking
09:30 - 09:45
Welcome Speech
Welcoming speech by Petar Gregurić, (CEO, STEMwise), epresentatives of the Croatian government and Zagreb City.
09:45 - 10:00
From National EU Funding Towards Horizon Europe
Why do some organizations effortlessly win Horizon Europe funding while others, experienced with national grants, consistently fail? The difference isn't better writing—it's a different mindset. This session decodes the 'excellence' and 'impact' philosophy at the heart of Europe's top-tier programmes. Gain the insider's perspective needed to transition from a successful national applicant to a sought-after European partner.

Speaker:
Petar Gregurić
CEO | STEMwise
10:00 - 10:15
From Principles to Practice: Implementing Responsible Research in the Balkan Region
Dr. Petar Vrgović will address the critical challenge of translating responsible research principles into tangible actions. He will share practical insights from his leading role in the REINFORCING project, established as a central European hub for Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI)

Speaker:
Petar Vrgović
Full Professor | Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad
10:15 - 11:15
The Pillars of Modern Research: Understanding ORRI and Open Science
Panel will explore the fundamental principles of Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI) and Open Science. The discussion will specifically address Croatia's national ORRI strategy, examining its development, implementation status, and relationship with broader European initiatives and best practices.
Daniel Spichtinger | Open Science Advisor
Ivan Marić | SRCE
Petar Vrgović | Reinforcing.eu
Deni Nurkić | Nuqleus
Nikola Mišković | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb
Lea Škorić | Head of Central Medical Library
11:15 - 11:30
Coffee Break
11:30 - 11:45
Zagreb's Success Stories & Innovations from Horizon Europe
This session will present successful Horizon Europe projects and practical innovations implemented in Zagreb. Discover how the city utilizes EU funding and acts as a pilot location for new solutions.

Speaker:
Darko Šiško
Assistant Head of Strategic Information and Research | Zagreb City
11:45 - 12:00
Urban Ecology: Making Cities Greener and More Liveable
This keynote will explore how initiatives such as Horizon Europe and the EU Missions can support the development of sustainable urban ecosystems that nurture both human and natural life. From an ecological perspective, we will discuss the added value these programs bring to European cities. Drawing on inspiring examples from around the world, we will highlight practical strategies that cities can adopt—such as implementing more green rooftops, expanding vertical gardens, and enhancing science communication—to become a greener, healthier, and more enjoyable city for all its residents.

Speaker:
Adriana Planinić
Scientific Manager | STEMwise
12:00 - 12:20
The RISE-IN Project: How Nature is Redefining Urban Resilience
What if our best defense against climate change isn't concrete, but nature itself? Join Reuben for a deep dive into RISE-IN, a groundbreaking Horizon Europe project asking this very question. Discover how six diverse cities—from Portugal to New Zealand—are implementing innovative Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to build powerful climate resilience. This session moves beyond theory to showcase the tangible co-benefits being unlocked, including enhanced biodiversity, financial returns, and new opportunities for smart, green infrastructure.

Speaker:
Reuben Barker
Architect / Director | EstraHub
12:20 - 13:15
How Horizon Europe is Cultivating Urban Sustainability
This panel will explore how cities can maximize Horizon Europe opportunities by engaging in innovative collaborations, including leveraging helix models. The discussion will highlight emerging opportunities for multi-stakeholder partnerships in urban innovation and clearly outline why it is in cities' strategic interest to actively participate. Join this session to understand how such collaborations can unlock new solutions, drive sustainable development, and help cities build a thriving innovation ecosystem with the support of Horizon Europe
Ana Pavičić Kaselj | Zagreb City Head of City Office for Economy, Environmental Sustainability and Strategic Planning
Marin Gregorović | Mayor of Cres
Dario Babić | Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences
Dani Ellis | Consultant at Rovesta
Velimir Šegon | Deputy Director at REGEA
Stjepan Mikac | Full professor at Faculty of forestry and wood technology
13:15 - 13:30
Decoding the EU Missions: The Vision for Net-Zero Cities
National Contact Point (NCP) for EU Missions, will demystify the ambitious EU Missions framework. He will address the core question: what does the European Union truly aim to achieve with its mission-oriented approach to innovation? With a special focus on the 'Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities' Mission, Ivan will outline the strategic vision and the ultimate goal of transforming urban centers into hubs of climate neutrality. This presentation will provide a clear understanding of the 'why' behind this major EU strategy and the opportunities it presents for cities to lead the green transition.

Speaker:
Ivan Munjin
Croatia NCP - EU Missions
13:30 - 14:15
Lunch Break
14:15 - 14:30
The Crowdhelix Ecosystem: Enhancing Connections and Open Innovation
The session will take a deep dive into the Crowdhelix ecosystem to describe its unique approach to building valuable connections and accelerating open innovation opportunities. Michael will describe the "Helix Methodology" which benefits from various enablers such as our proprietary platform connecting +14,800 experts across the 50 dedicated communities, the annual plan of training, knowledge sharing and matchmaking events, and Crowdhelix's unique dissemination approach to maximise the impact of innovative results and research outcomes.

Speaker:
Micheal Browne
CEO | Crowdhelix
14:30 - 15:00
Project ideas introduction
During this session, project coordinators will take the stage to individually showcase their innovative project ideas to all attendees. This unique opportunity allows for a direct and interactive presentation of their visions, highlighting the goals, potential impacts, and the collaborative opportunities each project offers.
15:00 - 16:45
Brainstorming Sessions + Business Speed Dating
Interactive roundtables will be strategically organised to facilitate in-depth discussions on project ideas, potential collaborations and the unique contributions of each partner. Led by the STEMwise team, these discussions will be structured around a clearly defined agenda to achieve tangible results. At the same time, a business speed dating session will be organised to bring interested partners together for future collaboration.
16:45 - 17:00
Key Takeaways
Closing remarks of the Summit highlighting future perspectives.
Schedule
09:00 - 09:30
Registrations and Networking
09:30 - 09:45
Welcome Speech
Welcoming speech by Petar Gregurić, (CEO, STEMwise), epresentatives of the Croatian government and Zagreb City.
09:45 - 10:00
From National EU Funding Towards Horizon Europe
Why do some organizations effortlessly win Horizon Europe funding while others, experienced with national grants, consistently fail? The difference isn't better writing—it's a different mindset. This session decodes the 'excellence' and 'impact' philosophy at the heart of Europe's top-tier programmes. Gain the insider's perspective needed to transition from a successful national applicant to a sought-after European partner.

Speaker:
Petar Gregurić
CEO | STEMwise
10:00 - 10:15
From Principles to Practice: Implementing Responsible Research in the Balkan Region
Dr. Petar Vrgović will address the critical challenge of translating responsible research principles into tangible actions. He will share practical insights from his leading role in the REINFORCING project, established as a central European hub for Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI)

Speaker:
Petar Vrgović
Full Professor | Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad
10:15 - 11:15
The Pillars of Modern Research: Understanding ORRI and Open Science
Panel will explore the fundamental principles of Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI) and Open Science. The discussion will specifically address Croatia's national ORRI strategy, examining its development, implementation status, and relationship with broader European initiatives and best practices.
Daniel Spichtinger | Open Science Advisor
Ivan Marić | SRCE
Petar Vrgović | Reinforcing.eu
Deni Nurkić | Nuqleus
Nikola Mišković | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb
Lea Škorić | Head of Central Medical Library
11:15 - 11:30
Coffee Break
11:30 - 11:45
Zagreb's Success Stories & Innovations from Horizon Europe
This session will present successful Horizon Europe projects and practical innovations implemented in Zagreb. Discover how the city utilizes EU funding and acts as a pilot location for new solutions.

Speaker:
Darko Šiško
Assistant Head of Strategic Information and Research | Zagreb City
11:45 - 12:00
Urban Ecology: Making Cities Greener and More Liveable
This keynote will explore how initiatives such as Horizon Europe and the EU Missions can support the development of sustainable urban ecosystems that nurture both human and natural life. From an ecological perspective, we will discuss the added value these programs bring to European cities. Drawing on inspiring examples from around the world, we will highlight practical strategies that cities can adopt—such as implementing more green rooftops, expanding vertical gardens, and enhancing science communication—to become a greener, healthier, and more enjoyable city for all its residents.

Speaker:
Adriana Planinić
Scientific Manager | STEMwise
12:00 - 12:20
The RISE-IN Project: How Nature is Redefining Urban Resilience
What if our best defense against climate change isn't concrete, but nature itself? Join Reuben for a deep dive into RISE-IN, a groundbreaking Horizon Europe project asking this very question. Discover how six diverse cities—from Portugal to New Zealand—are implementing innovative Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to build powerful climate resilience. This session moves beyond theory to showcase the tangible co-benefits being unlocked, including enhanced biodiversity, financial returns, and new opportunities for smart, green infrastructure.

Speaker:
Reuben Barker
Architect / Director | EstraHub
12:20 - 13:15
How Horizon Europe is Cultivating Urban Sustainability
This panel will explore how cities can maximize Horizon Europe opportunities by engaging in innovative collaborations, including leveraging helix models. The discussion will highlight emerging opportunities for multi-stakeholder partnerships in urban innovation and clearly outline why it is in cities' strategic interest to actively participate. Join this session to understand how such collaborations can unlock new solutions, drive sustainable development, and help cities build a thriving innovation ecosystem with the support of Horizon Europe
Ana Pavičić Kaselj | Zagreb City Head of City Office for Economy, Environmental Sustainability and Strategic Planning
Marin Gregorović | Mayor of Cres
Dario Babić | Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences
Dani Ellis | Consultant at Rovesta
Velimir Šegon | Deputy Director at REGEA
Stjepan Mikac | Full professor at Faculty of forestry and wood technology
13:15 - 13:30
Decoding the EU Missions: The Vision for Net-Zero Cities
National Contact Point (NCP) for EU Missions, will demystify the ambitious EU Missions framework. He will address the core question: what does the European Union truly aim to achieve with its mission-oriented approach to innovation? With a special focus on the 'Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities' Mission, Ivan will outline the strategic vision and the ultimate goal of transforming urban centers into hubs of climate neutrality. This presentation will provide a clear understanding of the 'why' behind this major EU strategy and the opportunities it presents for cities to lead the green transition.

Speaker:
Ivan Munjin
Croatia NCP - EU Missions
13:30 - 14:15
Lunch Break
14:15 - 14:30
The Crowdhelix Ecosystem: Enhancing Connections and Open Innovation
The session will take a deep dive into the Crowdhelix ecosystem to describe its unique approach to building valuable connections and accelerating open innovation opportunities. Michael will describe the "Helix Methodology" which benefits from various enablers such as our proprietary platform connecting +14,800 experts across the 50 dedicated communities, the annual plan of training, knowledge sharing and matchmaking events, and Crowdhelix's unique dissemination approach to maximise the impact of innovative results and research outcomes.

Speaker:
Micheal Browne
CEO | Crowdhelix
14:30 - 15:00
Project ideas introduction
During this session, project coordinators will take the stage to individually showcase their innovative project ideas to all attendees. This unique opportunity allows for a direct and interactive presentation of their visions, highlighting the goals, potential impacts, and the collaborative opportunities each project offers.
15:00 - 16:45
Brainstorming Sessions + Business Speed Dating
Interactive roundtables will be strategically organised to facilitate in-depth discussions on project ideas, potential collaborations and the unique contributions of each partner. Led by the STEMwise team, these discussions will be structured around a clearly defined agenda to achieve tangible results. At the same time, a business speed dating session will be organised to bring interested partners together for future collaboration.
16:45 - 17:00
Key Takeaways
Closing remarks of the Summit highlighting future perspectives.
Schedule
09:00 - 09:30
Registrations and Networking
09:30 - 09:45
Welcome Speech
Welcoming speech by Petar Gregurić, (CEO, STEMwise), epresentatives of the Croatian government and Zagreb City.
Petar Gregurić | STEMwise
Croatian Goverment Representative
Zagreb City Representative
Content
09:45 - 10:00
From National EU Funding Towards Horizon Europe
Why do some organizations effortlessly win Horizon Europe funding while others, experienced with national grants, consistently fail? The difference isn't better writing—it's a different mindset. This session decodes the 'excellence' and 'impact' philosophy at the heart of Europe's top-tier programmes. Gain the insider's perspective needed to transition from a successful national applicant to a sought-after European partner.

Speaker:
Petar Gregurić
CEO | STEMwise
10:00 - 10:15
From Principles to Practice: Implementing Responsible Research in the Balkan Region
Dr. Petar Vrgović will address the critical challenge of translating responsible research principles into tangible actions. He will share practical insights from his leading role in the REINFORCING project, established as a central European hub for Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI)

Speaker:
Petar Vrgović
Full Professor | Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad
10:15 - 11:15
The Pillars of Modern Research: Understanding ORRI and Open Science
Panel will explore the fundamental principles of Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI) and Open Science. The discussion will specifically address Croatia's national ORRI strategy, examining its development, implementation status, and relationship with broader European initiatives and best practices.
Daniel Spichtinger | Open Science Advisor
Ivan Marić | SRCE
Petar Vrgović | Reinforcing.eu
Deni Nurkić | Nuqleus
Nikola Mišković | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb
Lea Škorić | Head of Central Medical Library
11:15 - 11:30
Coffee Break
11:30 - 11:45
Zagreb's Success Stories & Innovations from Horizon Europe
This session will present successful Horizon Europe projects and practical innovations implemented in Zagreb. Discover how the city utilizes EU funding and acts as a pilot location for new solutions.

Speaker:
Darko Šiško
Assistant Head of Strategic Information and Research | Zagreb City
11:45 - 12:00
Urban Ecology: Making Cities Greener and More Liveable
This keynote will explore how initiatives such as Horizon Europe and the EU Missions can support the development of sustainable urban ecosystems that nurture both human and natural life. From an ecological perspective, we will discuss the added value these programs bring to European cities. Drawing on inspiring examples from around the world, we will highlight practical strategies that cities can adopt—such as implementing more green rooftops, expanding vertical gardens, and enhancing science communication—to become a greener, healthier, and more enjoyable city for all its residents.

Speaker:
Adriana Planinić
Scientific Manager | STEMwise
12:00 - 12:20
The RISE-IN Project: How Nature is Redefining Urban Resilience
What if our best defense against climate change isn't concrete, but nature itself? Join Reuben for a deep dive into RISE-IN, a groundbreaking Horizon Europe project asking this very question. Discover how six diverse cities—from Portugal to New Zealand—are implementing innovative Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to build powerful climate resilience. This session moves beyond theory to showcase the tangible co-benefits being unlocked, including enhanced biodiversity, financial returns, and new opportunities for smart, green infrastructure.

Speaker:
Reuben Barker
Architect / Director | EstraHub
12:20 - 13:15
How Horizon Europe is Cultivating Urban Sustainability
This panel will explore how cities can maximize Horizon Europe opportunities by engaging in innovative collaborations, including leveraging helix models. The discussion will highlight emerging opportunities for multi-stakeholder partnerships in urban innovation and clearly outline why it is in cities' strategic interest to actively participate. Join this session to understand how such collaborations can unlock new solutions, drive sustainable development, and help cities build a thriving innovation ecosystem with the support of Horizon Europe
Ana Pavičić Kaselj | Zagreb City Head of City Office for Economy, Environmental Sustainability and Strategic Planning
Marin Gregorović | Mayor of Cres
Dario Babić | Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences
Dani Ellis | Consultant at Rovesta
Velimir Šegon | Deputy Director at REGEA
Stjepan Mikac | Full professor at Faculty of forestry and wood technology
13:15 - 13:30
Decoding the EU Missions: The Vision for Net-Zero Cities
National Contact Point (NCP) for EU Missions, will demystify the ambitious EU Missions framework. He will address the core question: what does the European Union truly aim to achieve with its mission-oriented approach to innovation? With a special focus on the 'Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities' Mission, Ivan will outline the strategic vision and the ultimate goal of transforming urban centers into hubs of climate neutrality. This presentation will provide a clear understanding of the 'why' behind this major EU strategy and the opportunities it presents for cities to lead the green transition.

Speaker:
Ivan Munjin
Croatia NCP - EU Missions
13:30 - 14:15
Lunch Break
14:15 - 14:30
The Crowdhelix Ecosystem: Enhancing Connections and Open Innovation
The session will take a deep dive into the Crowdhelix ecosystem to describe its unique approach to building valuable connections and accelerating open innovation opportunities. Michael will describe the "Helix Methodology" which benefits from various enablers such as our proprietary platform connecting +14,800 experts across the 50 dedicated communities, the annual plan of training, knowledge sharing and matchmaking events, and Crowdhelix's unique dissemination approach to maximise the impact of innovative results and research outcomes.

Speaker:
Micheal Browne
CEO | Crowdhelix
14:30 - 15:00
Project ideas introduction
During this session, project coordinators will take the stage to individually showcase their innovative project ideas to all attendees. This unique opportunity allows for a direct and interactive presentation of their visions, highlighting the goals, potential impacts, and the collaborative opportunities each project offers.
15:00 - 16:45
Brainstorming Sessions + Business Speed Dating
Interactive roundtables will be strategically organised to facilitate in-depth discussions on project ideas, potential collaborations and the unique contributions of each partner. Led by the STEMwise team, these discussions will be structured around a clearly defined agenda to achieve tangible results. At the same time, a business speed dating session will be organised to bring interested partners together for future collaboration.
16:45 - 17:00
Key Takeaways
Closing remarks of the Summit highlighting future perspectives.