SPECTRA Insights & Future Visions Forum Highlights Creativity as a Driver of Regional Growth

The SPECTRA Insights & Future Visions Forum at the European Parliament in Brussels brought together leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of the SPECTRA project. Hosted by the Western Development Commission (WDC) in collaboration with Maria Walsh MEP, this landmark event demonstrated the transformative power of creativity in driving economic and social development across Europe, with a particular focus on regions like the West of Ireland.

Opening remarks by Maria Walsh MEP and Ian Brannigan of the WDC set the stage for a dynamic exploration of the creative and cultural industries’ potential to shape regional growth. The event featured presentations from key SPECTRA partners, including CREW, Media Deals, and Creative Business Networks, who highlighted the project’s collaborative achievements and the frameworks it has developed to support creative ecosystems. Insights into regional policies and the role of stakeholders in creative industry ecosystems were shared by Giulia Chiarel of ERRIN and Johanna Kouzmine-Karavaïeff of the IFA Laboratory, offering valuable perspectives on fostering innovation and resilience.

Best practices from across Europe were showcased, including Aurore Boraczek’s work on coordination platforms in Brussels and Stijn Debaillie’s insights into the creative initiatives in Kortrijk, Belgium. These examples emphasized the tangible benefits of strategic collaboration and innovation in creative industries. A moderated discussion led by Rasmus Wiinstedt Tscherning reflected on the key takeaways from the forum and outlined actionable next steps to further integrate creativity into regional development strategies.

The forum’s informal networking session provided a vital platform for participants to connect, share ideas, and build partnerships, further reinforcing the collaborative ethos of the SPECTRA project. Closing the event, Ian Brannigan reaffirmed the WDC’s dedication to championing creativity as a cornerstone of growth for the West of Ireland.

The SPECTRA project has demonstrated how creative and cultural industries can drive prosperity by fostering collaboration and sharing innovative solutions. This forum was not just a celebration of past achievements but a springboard for future progress, emphasizing the importance of creativity as a force for regional transformation.