After the conference, we will follow up the discussion with an exclusive working meeting aimed at turning ideas into concrete action. The format of three facilitated workshops will provide a space for deeper collaboration, exchange of experiences and design of solutions for the future of the region.
Focus groups are for:
- leaders and representatives of automotive companies and manufacturing companies
- representatives of IT companies and technology companies
- startups and innovators working in the field of mobility and digitalisation
- representatives of public administrations and investment promotion institutions
- the academic sector, universities and vocational training institutions
Workshop 1: Talent Engine - Powering the Future Workforce
Focus: talent, skills and workforce for the automotive future
Key Themes:
- what skills will define the automotive industry in 5-10 years (IT × manufacturing × AI)
- linking universities and practice (dual education, reskilling, upskilling)
- how to attract and retain top IT and tech talent in the region
- employer branding of the region vs. individual companies
Output:
- specific proposals for developing the talent pipeline
- identifying skill gaps and proposing solutions
- initiatives linking companies and universities
Workshop 2: Innovation Garage - Where Automotive Meets Tech
Focus: innovation, digitalization and automation in the automotive industry
Key Themes:
- how to set up an effective corporate × IT × startups collaboration
- digitalization of production, processes and supply chains in the automotive industry
- automation and smart manufacturing (Industry 4.0 / 5.0 approaches)
- use of data, AI and cloud solutions in the automotive industry
- building an innovation ecosystem in the region
- pilot projects, test environments (sandbox approach) for new technologies
Key Themes:
- how to set up an effective corporate × IT × startups collaboration
- the use of data, AI and digital solutions in the automotive industry
- building an innovation ecosystem in the region
- pilot projects and "sandbox" approaches for testing solutions
Output:
- designing a model of cooperation between players in the ecosystem
- identification of specific use-cases for innovation, digitisation and automation
- Proposal for joint pilot initiatives
Workshop 3: Brand the Region - From Hidden Gem to Automotive Hub
Focus: identity of the region and its investment attractiveness
Key Themes:
- which is the unique value of the Košice region for investors
- how to communicate the region as an automotive & tech hub
- barriers to investors and how to remove them
- the role of the public sector in supporting growth
Output:
- clearly defined value proposition of the region
- design of the communication narrative (region branding)
- specific measures to increase investment attractiveness
What will be the result?
- identifying key challenges in the areas of talent, innovation and investment
- concrete, feasible actions and initiatives
- proposing a long-term model for cooperation in the region
- a basis for joint projects with real impact
📅 9th June 2026
🕕 12:00 - 16:00
📍 UVP Technicom, Němcovej 5, Košice
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*** The Innovative Košice 2030 project is co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund under the Slovakia Programme for the programming period 2021 - 2027.
