What will cohesion policy look like after 2027? What new funding opportunities are opening up? What are investors looking for from startups and what skills will be needed to develop new technologies?
From 20 to 22 October 2026 in Šibenik 10th Conference ‘Days of Regional Development and EU Funds“, which this year brings topics relevant to entrepreneurs, development agencies, cities and other beneficiaries of EU funds. The conference is co-organised by Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds i HAMAG-BICRO.
From the future of EU funds to new opportunities for entrepreneurs
The programme provides an overview of current opportunities, as well as topics that will increasingly determine future development policies and investments.
One of the central topics will be: future of EU funds and regional development, including a strategic regional policy framework and a discussion on development beyond 2027. It also participates in the programme. Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Cohesion and Reforms, with keynote presentation on the strategic policy framework for regional development.
For entrepreneurs and startups, the programme is particularly interesting 2nd Annual START UP Conference, which takes place on 21 October. Focus will be one of the key issues for the growth of young businesses: How to reach venture capital and what are investors looking for? The following are presentations of the finalists' startups and a selection of the most innovative Croatian startups in 2026.
The third day of the conference is dedicated to the industrial transition of Croatian regions and the development of STEP skills;. They will discuss the competences needed to develop and apply strategic technologies, the role of regional ecosystems and linking education to the needs of the economy. The programme also includes the STEP Skills Arena, which will bring together the experiences of entrepreneurs, educational institutions, EDIHs and regional stakeholders and raise the question of how to turn new knowledge into products, processes and jobs.
Information and reporting
- 20. 22 October 2026
- Amadria Park, Šibenik
The number of seats is limited and you can register here. Registration is open until 12 October 2026 or until capacity is filled.
Participation is free. Travel and accommodation costs are borne by the participants themselves.
