Proselytising the Euregio: Life sciences initiative spreads the collaboration message
The Heartbeat of Life Sciences in Europe initiative was formed on the conviction that if the Euregio is going to impact Europe, businesses and research institutions must come together and operate as cohesive cluster.
Three universities of Maastricht, Aachen, and Liège along with several regional development agencies support the project because it aims to attract researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors from abroad, which boosts the economy and provides highly qualified jobs for young graduates, according to Henk van de Voort, the University of Maastricht’s representative within the project.
Though there are vast and dense science and business sectors within the region, it is not easy to encourage collaboration because it involves changing people’s mindsets and attitudes.
“Sometimes I feel like a missionary in my own field,” said Mr van de Voort.
Often, researchers have no commitment to strengthen the Euregio because they fail to see the benefits of it.
Businesses often fear different regulations, cultures and languages, and fail to investigate potential regional partners.
“Nevertheless, once they meet each other, people become aware of the advantages so closely in front of everybody’s door,” said Ute Steinbusch, coordinator for the initiative. “And companies always state that good location marketing is good for their business.”
The Heartbeat initiative uses the following tools to encourage Euregional collaboration:
- Website
- Euregional database for life sciences
- International marketing
- Information brokering
- Individual information and tours
- Partner searches
- Financing and funding
- Employment database
- Joint booths at trade fairs
- Networking conferences
Source: Crossroads print issue, July 2005
