NEWS: ABBA Online Focus Group and Launch of the Italian Innovation Hub

The Chamber of Commerce of Venice Rovigo organized an online focus group as part of the ABBA project, bringing together key local stakeholders to discuss the challenges and strengths of the Italian Blue Economy sectors.

The virtual meeting gathered 30 participants representing enterprises, public institutions, universities, and development agencies. Following a presentation of the ABBA project and its upcoming activities, participants contributed to a short survey focused on the Blue Economy ecosystem and were invited to actively engage in the creation of the Italian Innovation Hub.

The discussion continued through thematic working groups, allowing for more in-depth exchanges and the identification of priority areas for innovation and collaboration. These efforts led to the formal establishment of the Italian Hub for Innovation, aimed at strengthening regional innovation ecosystems and supporting sustainable blue growth.

The official launch of the Italian Hub took place on May 30, 2025, during the Salone Nautico Venezia in Venice—one of Italy’s most prestigious maritime and sea economy exhibitions. The event provided high visibility and strategic engagement opportunities for the Hub within the national and international Blue Economy community.