From local needs to new innovation opportunities in sustainable tourism, circular economy, innovative waste management and agriculture.
On 29 July 2026, local businesses, institutions and stakeholders gathered in Torre Melissa for the InnoConnect Info Day, organised by GAL Kroton with the participation of the Chamber of Commerce of Lecce.
The event provided an opportunity to present the vision, objectives and activities of the InnoConnect project, while introducing local SMEs to the digital services, AI-powered tools and networking opportunities that will be developed to support business innovation and cooperation.
Participants exchanged experiences and discussed how access to new technologies, specialised expertise and wider business networks can strengthen the competitiveness, innovation capacity and international connections of local enterprises. Particular attention was given to the role of the project’s e-Cluster in connecting SMEs with start-ups, innovation providers and other relevant organisations.
The meeting also opened a broader discussion on areas with strong potential for future cooperation, including sustainable and regenerative tourism, circular economy, innovative waste management and innovation in agriculture. These topics reflect common challenges for local territories, but also concrete opportunities for developing new services, partnerships and business models.
The Local Info Day represented an important step in collecting local perspectives and linking the needs of businesses with the wider opportunities offered by the project. The exchanges held during the event will contribute to shaping future activities and strengthening connections between local innovation ecosystems and potential partners across the Ionian area.
