STREnGth_M x SMC Platform Webinar: Small size, big potential—Strengthening research and innovation ecosystems in SMCs
The SMC Platform is organising a compelling webinar together with STREnGth_M, titled 'Small size, big potential—Strengthening research and innovation ecosystems in SMCs'. Happening on 15 January 2026, it will focus on strengthening research and innovation ecosystems in SMCs
The SMC Platform is hosting an engaging webinar on 15 January 2026 from 10:00 to 11:30 CET. Organised in collaboration with the STREnGth_M project, it will feature contributions from cities and key stakeholders, along with findings and resources developed within the project.
Small and Medium-sized Cities (SMCs) have long been recognised for their huge potential as innovation testbeds, helping to push forward new research. Yet their size can be a double-edged sword: while they are well positioned to experiment and adapt, they often struggle to sustain research efforts due to limited funding and capacity. This is where research projects and strong cross-sector collaboration can make a real difference.
This webinar will, all in all:
- Shine a spotlight on the vital role SMCs play as testbeds for research and innovation
- Explore how long-lasting cooperation between academia, industry, and civil society can be achieved
- Showcase how STREnGth_M is developing the insights and frameworks needed to amplify their impact and accelerate meaningful, scalable innovation
Check the agenda below
- 10:00 – 10:05 Opening by Marina Martin Vilches (POLIS)
- 10:05 - 10:10 Introducing STREnGth_M by Verena Wagenhofer (AVL)
- 10:10 – 10:15 Introducing POLIS’ SMC Platform by Cláudia Ribeiro-Vervaeck (POLIS)
- 10:15 – 10:50 Setting the scene: creating the ideal context to develop research
- 10:15 – 10:30 Enhancing local innovation capacity by Tess Tjokrodikromo and Marjolein Heezen (TNO)
- 10:30 – 10:45 Local innovators: Tim Asperges (City of Leuven)
- 10:45 – 10:50 Short Q&A
- 10:50 – 11:25 SMCs as testbeds for innovative research
- 10:50 – 11:05 Helmond: City of Smart Mobility by Matthieu Graindorge (City of Helmond)
- 11:05 – 11:20 Experimentation pilots in Vitoria-Gasteiz, by Leire Balzategui (MobilityLab) and Juan Carlos Escudero Achiaga (CEA Vitoria-Gasteiz)
- 11:20 – 11:25 Short Q&A
- 11:25 – 11:30 Wrap up (POLIS)
To register, click here!