Innovation Open Day: Connecting Business, Research, and Education at Ecomondo 2025
06/11/2025
On November 5, 2025, we implemented the Innovation Open Day – Business Blue Talk at the Rimini Expo Centre as part of the Ecomondo events. The initiative brought together representatives from companies, universities, research institutions, and organisations active in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, creating a vibrant space dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development within the Blue Economy.
The day-long event, hosted at the BLUESLINKS stand (Hall B6, Stand 216), provided a dynamic forum where businesses showcased job and collaboration opportunities, and universities and research centres presented advanced study programs and specialised training pathways in marine science, sustainability, and blue technologies.
A Bridge Between Knowledge and Opportunity
The Innovation Open Day was designed to strengthen the connection between academic research and the private sector, facilitating direct exchanges between students, graduates, entrepreneurs, and researchers. Visitors were able to meet key stakeholders in the Blue Economy, introduce themselves to participating institutions and companies, and—via a dedicated QR code—submit their professional profiles and CVs. These contributions will form part of a shared database of talents and opportunities distributed among project partners, companies, and universities.
Inspiring Speakers and Expert Insights
Throughout the day, several distinguished speakers shared their experiences and insights on innovation and sustainable development in the marine and coastal sectors:
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Luca Barani, Project Manager, Sea the Change
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Luca Di Nicola, Senior Product Specialist, Infoteam
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Antonio Moritti, President of Itaca Cooperative and Vice President of Casa del Pescatore Cooperative of Cattolica
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Selene Galante, FLAG Costa dei Trabocchi, presenting the Master in Law and Economics of the Sea
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Simona Zaninović, HIPPOCAMPUS j.d.o.o. and Argonauta
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Prof. Dr. Sanja Tomšić, University of Dubrovnik, project leader of BLUESLINKS
Their contributions highlighted how collaboration across borders and sectors can accelerate the development of a resilient, sustainable Blue Economy — one that combines innovation, education, and responsible management of marine resources.
Promoting Innovation and Career Growth
The Innovation Open Day represented a key step in implementing the BLUESLINKS objectives under Activity 3.5 – Organisation of Innovation Open Days. By connecting young professionals with business leaders and researchers, the event not only encouraged knowledge exchange but also opened new pathways for employment, innovation, and cross-border cooperation in the Adriatic-Ionian region.
The success of the day confirmed the crucial role of initiatives like BLUESLINKS in building an integrated Blue Economy network—one that values people, knowledge, and sustainable practices as the foundation for future growth.
