At a time when technological development is accelerating and global competition between major world powers is intensifying, the issue of European technological sovereignty is becoming more important than ever. How can Europe turn cutting-edge research into globally successful products and companies? How to build an economy that at the same time fosters innovation, protects democracy and develops the digital skills of the future?
These issues will be discussed at the conference. ‘Win the global race: why it is important to choose Europe", which will take place 9 July 2026 at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb, organised by European Commission Representations in Croatia and Algebra Bernays University, with the partnership of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing of the University of Zagreb and the Ruđer Bošković Institute.
The conference is intended for representatives of the public sector, entrepreneurs, startups, investors, researchers, academia, students and anyone who wants to participate in shaping Europe's technological future.
A European vision of technological sovereignty
The conference will focus on the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security and Democracy. Henna Virkkunen, It will present a European vision for the development of artificial intelligence, advanced digital technologies and innovation.
Its portfolio covers key areas such as the development of the European digital economy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, the protection of democracy, digital infrastructure and the technological capacities needed to keep Europe competitive in a global environment.
How can Europe turn knowledge into a competitive advantage?
The conference will bring together representatives of European institutions, the Croatian Government, the academic community, research institutions, entrepreneurs, investors and the technological community.
Special emphasis will be placed on:
- investments in research and development,
- developing digital and STEM skills;
- strengthening the capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises;
- making more efficient use of European programmes such as Horizon Europe, InvestEU i Digital Europe,
- the role of the European Investment Bank in financing technological innovation.
One of the key issues will also be how to create the conditions for the growth of European startups and future tech unicorns.
Croatian Success Stories
Special programme units will be dedicated to Croatian examples of good practice.
Representatives of leading technology companies, research organizations and the startup community will talk about how to build globally competitive products from Croatia, how to connect science and the economy and how to develop a strong innovation ecosystem.
Innovation, Security and Democracy
In addition to technological developments, the conference will also raise important issues of European legislation in the digital age, from the safety of children and young people online to the development of trustworthy artificial intelligence and a regulatory framework that simultaneously protects citizens, fosters innovation and strengthens European democracy.
At a time when technological advances are shaping the economy, security and society, the question is not only how to innovate, but also how to ensure that Europe remains a place where innovation serves people.
- Museum of Contemporary Art, Zagreb
- 9 July 2026
- 12.30-17.30
- Programme
- Applications (until 8 July 2026 5 p.m.)
