Agenda
Conference space at the stadium
1000 Opening ceremony
1100-1230 Plenary session - Europe: barriers, challenges and goals, i.e. the future of the Old Continent
Discussion points:
• Demographic challenges and utilizing migration
• Opening the EU to international trade
• Investing in innovation, education, infrastructure, and energy-efficient technologies: the key challenges for Europe?
Demographic challenges in European regions cover a spectrum: from longer life spans, through lower birth rates and aging societies, to smaller households and more urbanization. Europe’s decreasing share in world’s population means that it is expected that by 2070, only 4 percent of global population will live on the Old Continent. Major differences between regions in terms of demographic changes entail the need to handle the impact of these changes on growth and sustainable development, employment, health, and long-term care in various parts of Europe.
The European Union, which was originally a purely economic organization, has been transformed into an entity that covers a number of policy areas: from climate, through the environment and health, to external relations, security, justice, and migration. This was reflected in changing the name from the European Economic Community to the European Union in 1993.
The EU has provided more than 50 years of peace, stability, and welfare, helped improve the quality of life, and introduced a common currency: the euro. Today, more than 340 million people in 19 Member States use the euro as their currency, enjoying the benefits this solution offers.
Thanks to abolishing border checks between EU states, their citizens may travel freely across the continent. It is much easier to live in another European country. Every EU citizen has the right and freedom to choose in which Member State they wish to study, work, or retire. Every EU state has to treat EU citizens in exactly the same way as its own citizens in terms of employment, social security, and taxes.
The main driving force of EU economy is the single market, which allows for free movement of goods, services, capital, and persons. The EU wants to develop these immense opportunities in other areas, such as energy, knowledge, and capital markets, so as to provide Europeans with as many benefits as possible.
The EU continues to focus on increasing the transparency and developing the democratic nature of its institutions. Decisions are made with as much respect for the principle of openness and as close to citizens as possible. More powers have been granted to the European Parliament, which is elected directly, while national parliaments play a bigger role through their cooperation with European institutions.
In March, the representatives of three European institutions—David Sassoli, the President of the European Parliament, Antonio Costa, the Prime Minister of Portugal (on behalf of the presidency of the Council), and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission—signed a joint declaration concerning a conference on the future of Europe, which is a project intended to engage as many citizens as possible in shaping the future policies of the EU. From 19/04/2021, all EU residents and stakeholders, including civic organizations and local authorities, had the opportunity to submit their ideas via a new digital platform available at www.future.europa.eu.
1330-1500 Various Formats of European Cooperation
WEIMAR TRIANGLE
Planned discussion between the representatives of the Silesia Region, North Rhine-Westphalia, Hauts-de-France, and the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as diplomats.
August 2021 marks the 30th anniversary of the Weimar Triangle, i.e. the establishment of an informal alliance between Poland, France, and Germany, which has played a major role in the internal and external affairs of these countries, and Poland in particular, as it has accelerated its accession to European and Atlantic structures: the EU and the NATO.
In 2021, the Silesian Voivodeship, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Hauts-de-France celebrate the 20th anniversary of their cooperation as part of a Regional Weimar Triangle.
The 30th anniversary of the Weimar Triangle and the 20th anniversary of the Regional Triangle are an opportunity to analyze and recapitulate the actions taken and completed so far, as well as to reflect on how to strengthen the cooperation and provide it with more momentum.
THE VISEGRÁD GROUP
Planned discussion between the representatives of the Silesian Voivodeship, the Moravian-Silesian Region, the Žilina Region, the Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen County, the Subcarpathian Region, the Małopolska Region, and the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as diplomats.
In 2021, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary celebrate the 30th anniversary of their cooperation as part of the Visegrád Group. From a perspective of 30 years, the Group has become not only one of the symbols of a new, united Europe and of a successful political and economic transformation of the countries of the region, but also an example of an efficient format of regional cooperation within the European Union; a format that ensures participation in shaping EU policies and strengthens the region’s economic competitiveness.
The Silesian Voivodeship cooperates with regional partners from each of the V4 countries: the Moravian-Silesian Region, the Žilina Region, and the Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen County.
One of the important common thematic areas is the Carpathian Strategy: a platform for cooperation between countries intended to develop the Carpathian Region. Macroregional strategies help take up common challenges in specific areas, which are approached in a broad, cross-border geographical context. This is an important element of territorial cooperation in the EU. Through joint utilization of the potential of cross-border areas, strategies significantly contribute to achieving territorial cohesion between countries and regions. The purpose of the Carpathian Strategy is to reinforce the competitiveness and attractiveness of the region and limit the outflux of residents by means of improving the quality of their lives. It is also designed to contribute to a dynamic and sustainable development of this area. The Carpathian Strategy allows for closer cooperation between the countries of the region in various areas and dimensions: geography, ethnology, cooking, nature, history, and tourism. The Carpathian Strategy may become EU’s fifth macroregional strategy and second mountain strategy (the first one being the Alpine Strategy).
1515-1645 European Entrepreneurial Region - the role of regional authorities in stimulating entrepreneurship
The European Entrepreneurial Region (EER) is an initiative of the European Committee of the Regions supported by the European Commission and other EU institutions that identifies and rewards EU regions and cities in order to distinguish them for an outstanding and innovative entrepreneurial policy strategy, irrespective of their size, wealth and competences.
In this year’s special edition of the EER award, covering the years 2021-2022, the Silesian Voivodeship was granted the title of the “European Entrepreneurial Region” for a strategy promoting entrepreneurship for a sustainable recovery. The EER award was also granted to five other European cities and regions:
• Castelo Branco Municipality (Portugal),
• Gabrovo Municipality (Bulgaria),
• Helsinki-Uusimaa Region (Finland),
• Madrid Region (Spain),
• Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (France).
The session is organised as part of the European Future Forum, a 3-day event gathering entrepreneurs, stakeholders and policy makers of different levels. The main objective of the EER panel session is to promote tools and best practices in supporting entrepreneurship at the regional and city level. Another important element of the panel will be the European Entrepreneurial Region award and the way that the European Committee of the Regions is supporting entrepreneurship and cooperation among the European regions and cities through this project. By inviting representatives of other EER regions to take part in the discussion, the panel will concentrate on the most recent and most effective ways of supporting entrepreneurship aiming at a sustainable recovery.
The panel aims at answering the following questions:
• What should be the role of local (regional or city) authorities in shaping and stimulating entrepreneurship and what tools are the most effective at the regional/city level?
• What actions proposed in the EER strategies were key to become awarded with the title of the European Entrepreneurial Region 2021-2022? How the EER strategies will be implemented in the awarded EER regions?
• What should be the ideal policy framework for SMEs, including the division of roles and responsibilities at EU, national and regional/local level and how to promote “think small, act regional” approach to policy making?
• What regions and cities can do to support the twin transition of the economy (digital & green) and what challenges and opportunities did the covid-19 pandemic bring from the perspective of public policies?
New conference center room 1
1515-1645 Export as an opportunity for development and transformation of enterprises
The sector of small and medium-sized enterprises is the foundation of the economic market. It is characterized by great development potential. In Poland, most of the registered companies are SMEs. Many entrepreneurs, despite the large development potential, base their activities only on the domestic market and do not decide to export.
International trade is developing intensively. Forecasts predict that by the end of 2022, the global value of cross-border trade between companies will increase by 30%, to $ 35 trillion. Nevertheless, a large part of Polish enterprises from the SME sector is still reluctant to expand the sales area and expand into foreign markets.
How can exports affect the development and strengthening of the company’s market position? What are the benefits of a well-prepared and systematically implemented export strategy? What should entrepreneurs remember when preparing to expand into foreign markets?
New conference center room 2
Europe’s digital future
1330-1500 Digital acceleration: the common Internet - debate on the future of digitization
Technological race. Unfortunately, Europe is not a leader in it. The development of the latest technologies is currently mainly the USA and Asian countries. China, with its potential and projects China 2025 and China 2050, are becoming a technology leader. The European Union undertakes a number of actions aimed not so much at catching up with world leaders, as at not widening the distance. Does the EU have a chance in this technology race? Is it right to adopt the assumption that human rights are primarily protected at the expense of the development of algorithms and AI? Is the regulation of algorithms, as well as their control by national and EU institutions, the right way?
A global view of the development of the Internet and access to information – is it possible? (reference and discussion in terms of the UN IGF). Digital Exclusion. Lack of Internet access in poorer countries (global view, not our regional view and invitation to the IGF).
Compared to other EU countries, Poland has a lot of catching up to do. Blockchain as a basic goverment tool is an exceptionally serious challenge for Poland. Are we ready for the digital identity (European ID) proposed in eIDAS2, qualified attributes, no document circulation and in its place entry in blocks and value tokenization?
Is 700 thousand qualified electronic signatures issued as a success or failure in the field of paperless. How to change mentality and move away from paper. Data sharing – Pandora’s box, or is it the right solution for today’s times?
Digital transformation of the broadly understood justice system (including law corporations) – an urgent business need. Law implementation in algorithmic codes – it is already happening. Smart contract – a wasted opportunity for Poland.
Ecological transformation is digital transformation. How to stimulate, among others Silesian agglomeration for changes in terms of eco smart cities?
The problem of the lack of specialists, low and very low digital competences of the society. New professions? Will AI replace human? Will guaranteed income soon become a necessity? How to educate young people?
1515-1645 Responsible economic transformation based on knowledge and innovation
The development of knowledge has taken place throughout human history. However, recently, a significant increase in the phenomena of economic development associated with the wide application of knowledge has been noticed. These phenomena aroused the interest of international organizations such as the United Nations, OECD and the World Bank. In the knowledge-based economy, transnational corporations and ordinary enterprises look for further development opportunities.
The contemporary concept of economic growth – long-term growth is a model whose success is not determined by savings, but largely depends on broadly understood investments in human capital, inventions and innovations. Activities in this area bring positive externalities related to the dissemination of knowledge, technological progress and innovation.
KBE is based on four basic pillars: education and training, IT infrastructure, economic incentives and institutional conditions, innovation systems.
Theses for the panel: joint acceleration – debate about the future
Technological race. Unfortunately, Europe is not a leader in it. The development of the latest technologies is currently mainly the USA and Asian countries. China, with its potential and projects China 2025 and China 2050, are becoming a technology leader. The European Union undertakes a number of actions aimed not so much at catching up with world leaders, but rather at not widening the distance. Does the EU have a chance in this technology race? Is it right to adopt the assumption that human rights are primarily protected at the expense of the development of algorithms and AI? Is the regulation of algorithms, as well as their control by national and EU institutions, the right way?
A global view of the development of the Internet and access to information – is it possible? (reference and discussion in terms of the IGF ONZ). Digital Exclusion. Lack of Internet access in poorer countries (global view, not our regional view and invitation to the IGF).
Compared to other EU countries, Poland has a lot of catching up to do. Blockchain as a basic goverment tool is an exceptionally serious challenge for Poland. Are we ready for the digital identity (European ID) proposed in eIDAS2, qualified attributes, no document circulation and in its place entry in blocks and value tokenization?
Is 700 thousand the issued qualified electronic signatures should be considered a success or failure in the field of paperless. How to change mentality and move away from paper? Data sharing – Pandora’s box, or is it the right solution for today’s times?
Digital transformation of the broadly understood justice system (including law corporations) – an urgent business need. Law implementation in algorithmic codes – it is already happening. Smart contract – a wasted opportunity for Poland.
Ecological transformation is digital transformation. How to stimulate, among others Silesian agglomeration for changes in terms of eco smart cities?
The problem of the lack of specialists, low and very low digital competences of the society. New professions? Will AI replace human? Will guaranteed income soon become a necessity? How to educate young people?
Panel name: Round table
Round table about the development of the software house industry in the Silesian Voivodeship
New conference center room 3
Regional Innovation Strategy
1100-1330 RIS 2030 ``Regional Innovation Strategy of the Silesian Voivodeship 2030`` - INTELLIGENT TRANSFORMATION
The new European Bauhaus (NEB) is an initiative based on sustainability, accessibility and aesthetics, aimed at improving the quality of our daily life and co-creating a sustainable future that takes into account both converging needs and goals as well as complex social problems. NEB is a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, thanks to which you can develop innovative solutions, support experiments in communication between the world of science and technology and the world of culture and art, and meet the challenges of green and digital transformation.
The meeting will be devoted to promoting the principle of good design as a tool for implementing innovations adapted to recipients of products and services. It will be a debate on the future of one of the Smart Specializations of the Silesian Voivodeship and the summary of the long-term Design4Innovation project, funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Interreg Europa program.
1330-1600 Final conference: 'Designing new growth - supporting SMEs to use Design for Innovation'
Designing new growth – helping businesses on transition to more sustainable, more collaborative, more humane economy
New conference center room 4
The direction of electromobility
1330-1500 Challenges for the development of electromobility as a new economic sector in Poland
The electromobility sector in Poland is accelerating. As a country, are we prepared to take advantage of the opportunities related to this? What are the challenges facing companies that already operate in a new industry or want to use the trend for the development of their own enterprises? Is it possible to build a coherent electromobility ecosystem in Poland based on local solutions? How to educate staff for the needs of a new industry? Challenges for companies and regions. Electric car value chain.
1515-1645 Hydrogen as the fuel of the future
The energy market in Europe is undergoing a technological transformation. Its main pillars are just transition, building a parallel, zero-emission energy system and good air quality. What about hydrogen?
Theses for internationalization:
- Internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises as the next stage of regional economic development
- Internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises – directions of enterprise expansion
- From supporting foreign investors to supporting the expansion of companies outside
- Internationalization of enterprises – influence on the economic development of the region and the labor market
- Goals of foreign expansion of companies – why do companies decide to invest abroad and how to support them?
- Entrepreneurs’ needs and expectations regarding internationalization support
- Free or paid support
- Internationalization support tools from the national level
- Tools to support internationalization in the Silesian Voivodeship
- Good practices to support internationalization
- Barriers and challenges that constitute obstacles to the internationalization of SMEs
- Entrepreneurs’ expectations regarding various forms of support from public administration
Conference room 5
1330-1500 Is the meat industry declining? Report announcement: “Pork. New Perspective``
In the public space, there are more and more voices talking about the harmfulness of breeding and meat production. The sector presents itself as having a negative impact on the environment, health and society. The latest report prepared by the Polish Meat Union in cooperation with leading Polish scientists contradicts this thesis. It presents the state of knowledge on the impact of pork on various areas of life. It presents ways to reduce negative impact and shows the chances of facing challenges. But most of all, it brings new arguments to the discussion on the pork sector and provokes discussion.
1515-1645 Agriculture without CO2 - up to 30 TWh of clean electricity and greater energy security
The agricultural energy sector, based on agri-food waste, is still at an early stage of development in Poland. Despite many attempts, it still faces administrative and social barriers. The latest findings by prof. Alina Jusko-Kowalczyk, show that, in addition to the previously known benefits, the development of biogas plants and biomethane plants can almost offset greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, thanks to the production of clean electricity. With the maximum use of Polish biogas potential, even 26 million tons of CO2 less would be produced, i.e. 80% of today’s emissions from agriculture. With additional measures, based e.g. on the use of heat, Polish agriculture would become zero-emission and Poland would gain a stable source of energy based on Polish raw materials.
Conference room 7
1330-1500 Should business be socially responsible? What would such a responsibility consist of?
VIP Rooms
Europe & The World. Vision of young people
1000-1115 Oxford debates
Thesis: In schools, students should be able to choose esports instead of traditional physical education.
- I LO im. Walerian Łukasiński in Dąbrowa Górnicza versus III LO im. Adam Mickiewicz in Katowice.
- I LO im. Mikołaj Kopernik in Katowice versus Technical College TEB Edukacja in Tychy.
- ZS No. 1 for them. Adam Mickiewicz in Lubliniec versus IV High School for them. Stanisław Staszica in Sosnowiec.
1130-1245 Oxford debates
Thesis: European Union countries should introduce a 32-hour working week.
- I LO im. Walerian Łukasiński in Dąbrowa Górnicza versus I LO im. Leon Kruczkowski in Tychy.
- I LO im. Nicolaus Copernicus in Katowice versus IV LO im. Gen. Stanisław Maczek in Katowice.
- ZS No. 1 for them. Adam Mickiewicz in Lubliniec versus ZS No. 1 im. Gustaw Morcinek in Tychy.
1300-1415 Oxford debates
Thesis: The European Union should strive to include the countries of the former Yugoslavia as soon as possible, even at the cost of lowering the accession requirements.
- III LO im. Adam Mickiewicz in Katowice versus I LO im. Leon Kruczkowski in Tychy.
- Technikum TEB Edukacja in Tychy versus IV LO im. Gen. Stanisław Maczek in Katowice.
- IV LO im. Stanisław Staszic in Sosnowiec versus ZS No. 1im. Gustaw Morcinek in Tychy.
Gala of the European Future Forum
1900-2000 Awards ceremony
2000-2100 Music concert
Conference space at the stadium
1000-1130 Plenary session. Regional dimension of entrepreneurship: Cooperation on international markets
Building a modern and competitive regional economy requires the ability to create and transform knowledge into new products, technologies or services. These skills today determine the market success of both individual economic entities and entire regions. The construction of sustainable development of the region is determined by knowledge and innovation resources, human and social capital, the density of network relations and the tendency to cooperate.
1145-1315 The internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises as the next stage of regional economic development
1330-1500 A breath for the city
Annual air quality assessments in the Śląskie Voivodeship carried out by the Provincial Inspectorate for Environmental Protection in Katowice indicate a very poor condition of air quality in the voivodeship. The results from the air quality measuring stations of the State Environmental Monitoring show significantly higher pollutant concentrations in the period from October to March, compared to the rest of the year.
What can we do about it? Sit, breathe and complain about whether we, as inhabitants of Silesia, can take real action to improve the air we all breathe. The heating season begins, during which we will look at our loved ones – as every year, they have breathing problems, of course there is smog from car exhaust fumes, and we have such well-developed public transport. It is also worth noting that research shows that cigarette smoke, which we seemingly do not notice, has a powerful impact on air quality. We invite you to the panel entitled “Breathing for the city”, during which we want to jointly plan real actions from NOW, aimed at improving air quality in our voivodeship.
New conference center
1000-1130 Inaugural session. The future of Special Economic Zones
The natural question becomes – what’s next with SEZ? What new development directions can they take? For over two decades, special economic zones have contributed to the rebuilding of industry in many regions of Poland. In regions where SEZ manages it, it has often meant a complete socio-economic transformation of a given area. It has managed not only to reduce unemployment, but above all to create development prospects for the coming years. Today, the goal is to continue this mission and continue to create positive prospects – for industry, for employees and also for investors. In the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, conditions are not easy, but a quarter of a century of SEZ operation has proven that the zones were created precisely to function in difficult conditions.
1145-1300 Implementation of the European Green Deal policy - opportunities for the Silesian economy.
Green investments, green finances, Green Deal as a long-term development strategy, 2021 as the time of the economy’s transition to “green positions”. During the discussion, we want to raise important issues regarding changes in the world economy in the context of climate challenges and the future of the economy in the Silesian Voivodeship, listening to the voices of numerous experts and specialists from business, scientific and political circles.
1145-1300 Industry of the future - digital transformation at your fingertips
Silesia Smart Systems – a digital innovation center coordinated by the Katowice Special Economic Zone, Presentations of modern solutions in three areas of specialization – automation and robotics, cybersecurity and 3D printing (Tekniska, 5sAutomate, Technopark)
1315-1430 Polish Investment Zone - legal aspects and benefits for the SME sector
After more than 20 years of operation of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in Poland, the time has come for changes and a new idea in terms of incentives for investors. The slogan “the whole of Poland as a Special Economic Zone” was largely implemented in 2018, when a new support program – the so-called “Polish Investment Zone” (Polska Strefa Inwestycji – PSI), which is an extension of the existing SEZs, and is ultimately intended to replace them.
1315-1430 Cooperation between business and education as a path to success
During the panel, we will try to answer to the questions: necessity or choice – how important is the cooperation between the spheres of business and education nowadays? What does the success of this cooperation depend on? Does it increase the chances for development and better work? What effects can be achieved thanks to this cooperation? What is ahead – what are the challenges facing employers, economic zones and local governments in adapting the educational offer to the needs of the labor market?
1445-1600 Building a center of creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship - KSSENON business accelerator
The challenge for our region is the development of the innovation ecosystem. Our task is to signal important issues to be solved, problem areas that relate to the development of business environment institutions in the Silesian Voivodeship that create cooperation to increase the innovativeness of companies. Modern infrastructure, knowledge transfer, consulting, personnel adapted to the needs of modern economy are these sufficient factors of success?
1445-1600 Building international economic relations of the KSEZ as the motor of automotive - cooperation within the SA&AM Cluster in response to the challenges of the automotive sector
The ability to build international relations is considered one of the basic competences in business. It is a difficult art even in the home country, and even more so in relations with business partners from different countries. Special economic zones + chambers of commerce + investors + banks. Is this a good recipe for attracting FDI and, as a result, building international economic relations?
1630-1830 KSEZ is the motor of automotive - cooperation within the SA&AM Cluster in response to the challenges of the automotive sector
The automotive industry, the most important industrial sector in Silesia, faces many challenges: continuous reduction of transport emissions, new low and zero-emission drives, the 4th industrial revolution, lack of raw materials and problems on the labor market.
We will talk with representatives of the following companies: Stellantis (OPEL Gliwice / FCA Tychy), Electromobility Poland, ZF, Nexteer, Marco, Aiut, eq system, and the Institute of Innovative Technologies Bosmal and the AWSB university, we will talk about the role and importance of cooperation within the Silesia Automotive & Advanced Cluster Manufacturing to face the industry’s challenges:
Preparation of the production of new vehicle models in Silesia, construction of new supply chains and the role of the SA&AM Cluster in initiating cooperation with local suppliers,
Product development and use of the region’s research potential,
New competences for new projects in the automotive industry – the role of cooperation with universities and schools within the SA&AM Cluster,
Industrial transformation of the sector – cooperation of the automotive industry with suppliers of new Industry 4.0 technologies associated in the SA&AM Cluster.
1900-0000 The jubilee gala of the KSEZ and the accompanying cultural event ``KSEZ - Patron of Culture and Art``
Conference room 5
Saxon-Silesian simul + workshop:
“Regional value chains in the era of digitization”
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Digitization: Software / Hardware / Connectivity / 5G & 6G
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Smart Production
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Smart Region / Smart City
1000-1010 Welcoming and opening
1010-1020 Introduction: Saxony and Poland
1020-1100 The potential of Polish-German cooperation in the area of Smart IoT solutions and software development
1100-1115 Effective implementation of Industry 4.0 solutions: From customer requirements through the ``digital twin`` to the real object
1135-1200 Saxony and Silesia: Intelligent Automotive Solutions
1200-1215 5G campus networks and intelligent telecommunications solutions
1215-1235 Smart Region: Development of an attractive region through digitization
1235-1300 Intelligent use of data in the network, summary of the workshop and a common perspective
1330-1600 Polish-German exchange of business and research contacts
Conference room 6
1000-1130 Polish model of forest management and the European Biodiversity Strategy
In May 2020, the European Commission announced the adoption of the 2030 Biodiversity Strategy, the consequence of which is the presentation of a new strategy for the protection and restoration of forests in the European Union called the Forest 2030 Strategy. During the panel, the speakers will present their positions in relation to the Strategy’s assumptions. They will present and discuss the possible consequences of meeting the obligations contained in its provisions. How will the Strategy affect forest management and will it prove effective in protecting forest ecosystems and mitigating the effects of climate change?
1145-1315 Regional Development Funds as institutional innovation in the regions
A few years ago in Poland, there was a discussion about establishing regional development banks, following the example of German solutions. Today, no one is talking about it anymore, but already 13 voivodeships have established their Regional Development Funds (RFR). This is one of the most interesting institutional innovations in recent years. The exhaustion of non-returnable aid from the EU and the growing tendency to replace it with financial instruments mean that there is a growing need to accumulate own resources in order to finance regional development policies. The accumulation of funds for repayable instruments managed by voivodeship self-governments through the RFR increases the independence of planning and implementation of the regional development policy from external sources of financing – including, for example, funds from the central budget or the EU. Accumulation of such resources secures the sustainability of Polish development policy, in connection with the depletion of non-returnable financial aid. The value of accumulated funds allocated to offering repayable instruments in Polish regions currently amounts to about four billion zlotys, but by 2027 it may already reach about 20 billion zlotys. Currently in Poland there is a two-tier system of financial institutions supporting regional development, present at the national and regional level. These institutions both cooperate and compete with each other. At the regional level, the Implementation Act and the Act on the voivodeship self-government made it possible for the voivodeship self-government to create the RFR, appointed to carry out tasks related to creating conditions for economic development. Moreover, the funds started to self-organize their activities in the form of exchange of experiences through the economic self-government within the Polish Association of Regional Development Funds.
- How to finance the regional development when the model of financing EU development policy changes?
- Can repayable financing replace grants, and if so, where?
- Do Regional Development Funds create an opportunity to increase the effectiveness of development financing? If so, how to use it?
- Where to get funds for the development of the RFR?
- What are the organizational and functional models of RFR operating in the regions?
- What are the challenges facing the regions that have not created the Regional Development Fund?
- What role should Regional Development Funds play in the future?
1330-1500 The future of interstate conflicts - the role of the citizen
Currently, the security situation in our part of Europe indicates that a significant threat will be the growing role of asymmetric and destabilizing conflicts, which may indirectly affect the economic situation of the endangered region.
The system of general state defense should become the main method of counteracting the above-mentioned threats. The cornerstones of such a system are: citizens aware of their obligations, access to firearms, popularization of shooting sport. The system of universal defense is not a solution to all problems, the modernization and increasing the number of the Armed Forces still has to be progressed, but it can and should ensure a quick profit for the State in the form of deterrence. It is the duty of the state to use the available civic resources (hunters, sport shooters) in order to improve the security of the state. During the panel, we will also discuss the impact of the development of shooting on the improvement of entrepreneurship and state security.
Conference room 7
1000-1130 Round table on the development of the software house industry in the Silesian Voivodeship
- Shortage of programmers and cooperation between business and administration in this area
- Tax incentives for the IT sector
- Competitiveness of the Polish industry on the global arena
1145-1315 Challenges and opportunities of the Silesian startup ecosystem - 6 pillars necessary to build effective communication
1330-1500 Your success on the internet with the use of effective internet marketing tools
During the panel, the speakers will present business development opportunities based on effective Internet marketing tools in the enterprise:
- The most current trends in digital marketing, to which every company should adjust its promotion and communication strategies,
- Discussing the possibility of implementing ready-made solutions in your company or organization in the field of e-business solutions,
- Inspiration for you, i.e. interesting examples of specific implementations and success stories,
- Presentation of recommendations for implementation for 2022 in your company to stay ahead of the competition on the Internet in the fight for an increasingly demanding customer.
1515-1745 PLUG AND PLAY InSilesia Investment SFR startup competition - Final
Conference space at the stadium
1000-1130 Construction investments: regulatory challenges of the future
Market tendencies overtaking legal regulations. Digitization of construction law. First conclusions after the reform. The role of public administration in the investment process. Effective law: the perspective of a developer, designer, clerk and lawyer.
1145-1315 Is omnichannel the future of commerce?
- Omnichannel as a multi-channel sales approach that combines online and offline sales.
- Its origin, essence and application in the era of pandemic and progressing technological development.
- Barriers and challenges of its adaptation in order to achieve sales success not only on European markets, but also on many times larger Asian markets.
- The main tools and strategies that enable a holistic approach to brand development and its importance in a given market sector.
1330-1500 Medicine in the times of COVID
New conference center room 1
1000-1130 Global challenges in road transport
1145-1315 Promotion of Poland - what makes us different?
The issue of promoting Poland is still a still actual topic. Polish export is developing dynamically, unfortunately it suffers from the structural problem of low margins. One of the ways to increase it is technological advancement, as well as having your own distribution network and brand recognition. The brand is a margin. In the discussion, we will consider how to constantly strengthen the brand of Poland as a country and build brand recognition of Polish companies. The topic has been raised for years, but still it is very relevant. Perhaps great strategies are not needed, but painstaking work on building the strength of Polish enterprises.
1330-1500 The future of the labor market in the context of technological and social changes
The labor market is extremely susceptible to any changes, which means that it is subject to constant observation and analysis. Currently, the burden of discussion in its context focuses on two areas: social – related to the entry into the labor market of new generations characterized by different motivators and attitudes to work, and the reduction of resources related to the demographic situation and aging of society, technological – related to automation, displacement of workers by machines and the wider context of this phenomenon, such as the separation of work from the geographical location, employee specialization or lifelong learning. The discussion will be aimed at analyzing selected global directions of the labor market evolution and their impact on the market itself and the supply of jobs in our country.
New conference center room 2
Conference: European Rail Transport 2050
1000-1040 Inaugural speech
1100-1300 Rail transport as a key element of the European Green Deal 2050. Diversifying energy sources and ensuring more efficient rail mobility as an opportunity for the environment and the energy sector
1330-1430 Rail transport as a key element of the European Green Deal 2050. Diversification of energy sources and ensuring more efficient mobility of railways as an opportunity for the environment and the energy sector
1500-1630 How is technology fueling the future of railways? Innovations that could shape the future of rail travel
New conference center room 3
1200-1330 Tourism in the postcovid era - #StayHomeToday to #TravelTomorrow
Tourism is one of the industries, along with gastronomy, that were hardest hit during the pandemic. During the panel, however, we will want to consider whether and what positive changes, periodic or permanent, have recently taken place in this industry. The speakers will answer the questions about the image of Polish tourism after over a year of struggle with the pandemic, and how has the image of the Polish hotel market/travel agency / tourist attractions/tourist events market changed, including business tourism?
Are there any new trends in the behavior of guests/tourists, are some of them dominant, will some of them remain permanent? What is the future of this industry and will new products/services be created or modified?
We definitely want to show some positive conclusions that the industry has drawn from the last period.
1400-1530 Wind energy as an opportunity for the development of the Polish economy
The panel will discuss the opportunities that wind energy provides to Polish companies for development. Supply chains and the possibility of Polish companies joining in will be shown. Additionally, the concept of building a Training Center in Silesia for the purposes of retraining employees for renewable energy will be presented.
New Conference Center
The event accompanying day III – Conference of the Silesian Aviation Cluster. Aviation, drone and space industries as economic sectors enabling the development of the region
900-950 Two years of aviation with COVID19. Opportunities and directions for the development of the industry after the pandemic
Almost two years have passed since the COVID19 pandemic began. Aviation is one of the economic sectors most affected by losses caused by traffic restrictions. How big are the losses in the industry? How much has passenger transport decreased compared to 2019? How different is the situation from the point of view of PPL (the largest airport operator in Poland), Katowice Airport (the largest regional airport) and Kaniów Airport – an airport focused on general aviation? Our panellists will try to answer these questions during the interview. In addition, the subject of the new functioning of the corporation will be discussed, with limited travel opportunities caused by the Covid 19 pandemic. The performers will also present to us what they believe are the opportunities and directions for the development of the aviation industry after the pandemic.
1000-1055 Drones in urbanized space. The importance of the sector for cities, metropolises and regions
Drone traffic management system. National and European regulations. Research projects and new solutions in the field of the use of drones in urban space.
1110-1200 Test areas for drones in Poland and Europe
The concept of Central – European Drone Demonstrator compared to other European solutions.
1220-1400 Drones as a new branch of the aviation industry. Overview of the development of the sector in Poland and Europe. New projects, technologies, examples of international and intersectoral cooperation (especially with the defense and space industry)
1440-1525 Building the technological potential of Polish enterprises in the space industry
1530-1615 European cooperation within the drone sector and the aviation industry
Cooperation of European aviation and drone clusters (EACP, EDC)
1615-1630 End of the conference
Stadium pitch
1055-1110 Drone show, part 1
1210-1220 Drone show, part 2
1400-1440 Drone show with drone races
Conference
room 5
1445-1615 The future of Silesian waste management versus the European Green Deal and climate neutrality
The panel will discuss issues related to:
- the shape and condition of the Silesian waste management
- Silesia’s problems in the field of waste management after the decision about the impossibility of building ITPO by metropolises, etc.
- closing the waste management system in Silesia without an incineration plant
- obtaining political and social consensus for environmentally difficult implementation
- the concept of waste management in Poland and its adaptation to modern standards in the field of waste management
- The European Green Deal and its impact on waste management
- EU climate taxonomy and waste management
Conference
room 7
The accompanying event for day III – the e-sport tournament for the Cup Winners’ Cup
900-1600 Polish Qualifying Tournament for the IESF World Championship
in Israel. The tournament will be attended by the best Polish teams from the best domestic gaming leagues: CS, GO, Tekken, PES
Event partner: ESA E-sport Association
VIP Rooms
Oxford debates
1000-1400 Final of the Oksford Debates
Final theses
- Climate movements should prioritize positive messages over negative messages.
- The growing popularity of Nihilism in popular culture has a negative impact on society.
- As soon as possible, the extinction of hard coal mines in the Silesian Voivodeship will do more harm than good.
- Day I
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Conference space at the stadium
1000 Opening ceremony
1100-1230 Plenary session - Europe: barriers, challenges and goals, i.e. the future of the Old Continent
Discussion points:
• Demographic challenges and utilizing migration
• Opening the EU to international trade
• Investing in innovation, education, infrastructure, and energy-efficient technologies: the key challenges for Europe?Demographic challenges in European regions cover a spectrum: from longer life spans, through lower birth rates and aging societies, to smaller households and more urbanization. Europe’s decreasing share in world’s population means that it is expected that by 2070, only 4 percent of global population will live on the Old Continent. Major differences between regions in terms of demographic changes entail the need to handle the impact of these changes on growth and sustainable development, employment, health, and long-term care in various parts of Europe.
The European Union, which was originally a purely economic organization, has been transformed into an entity that covers a number of policy areas: from climate, through the environment and health, to external relations, security, justice, and migration. This was reflected in changing the name from the European Economic Community to the European Union in 1993.
The EU has provided more than 50 years of peace, stability, and welfare, helped improve the quality of life, and introduced a common currency: the euro. Today, more than 340 million people in 19 Member States use the euro as their currency, enjoying the benefits this solution offers.Thanks to abolishing border checks between EU states, their citizens may travel freely across the continent. It is much easier to live in another European country. Every EU citizen has the right and freedom to choose in which Member State they wish to study, work, or retire. Every EU state has to treat EU citizens in exactly the same way as its own citizens in terms of employment, social security, and taxes.
The main driving force of EU economy is the single market, which allows for free movement of goods, services, capital, and persons. The EU wants to develop these immense opportunities in other areas, such as energy, knowledge, and capital markets, so as to provide Europeans with as many benefits as possible.
The EU continues to focus on increasing the transparency and developing the democratic nature of its institutions. Decisions are made with as much respect for the principle of openness and as close to citizens as possible. More powers have been granted to the European Parliament, which is elected directly, while national parliaments play a bigger role through their cooperation with European institutions.
In March, the representatives of three European institutions—David Sassoli, the President of the European Parliament, Antonio Costa, the Prime Minister of Portugal (on behalf of the presidency of the Council), and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission—signed a joint declaration concerning a conference on the future of Europe, which is a project intended to engage as many citizens as possible in shaping the future policies of the EU. From 19/04/2021, all EU residents and stakeholders, including civic organizations and local authorities, had the opportunity to submit their ideas via a new digital platform available at www.future.europa.eu.
1330-1500 Various Formats of European Cooperation
WEIMAR TRIANGLE
Planned discussion between the representatives of the Silesia Region, North Rhine-Westphalia, Hauts-de-France, and the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as diplomats.August 2021 marks the 30th anniversary of the Weimar Triangle, i.e. the establishment of an informal alliance between Poland, France, and Germany, which has played a major role in the internal and external affairs of these countries, and Poland in particular, as it has accelerated its accession to European and Atlantic structures: the EU and the NATO.
In 2021, the Silesian Voivodeship, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Hauts-de-France celebrate the 20th anniversary of their cooperation as part of a Regional Weimar Triangle.
The 30th anniversary of the Weimar Triangle and the 20th anniversary of the Regional Triangle are an opportunity to analyze and recapitulate the actions taken and completed so far, as well as to reflect on how to strengthen the cooperation and provide it with more momentum.
THE VISEGRÁD GROUP
Planned discussion between the representatives of the Silesian Voivodeship, the Moravian-Silesian Region, the Žilina Region, the Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen County, the Subcarpathian Region, the Małopolska Region, and the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as diplomats.In 2021, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary celebrate the 30th anniversary of their cooperation as part of the Visegrád Group. From a perspective of 30 years, the Group has become not only one of the symbols of a new, united Europe and of a successful political and economic transformation of the countries of the region, but also an example of an efficient format of regional cooperation within the European Union; a format that ensures participation in shaping EU policies and strengthens the region’s economic competitiveness.
The Silesian Voivodeship cooperates with regional partners from each of the V4 countries: the Moravian-Silesian Region, the Žilina Region, and the Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen County.
One of the important common thematic areas is the Carpathian Strategy: a platform for cooperation between countries intended to develop the Carpathian Region. Macroregional strategies help take up common challenges in specific areas, which are approached in a broad, cross-border geographical context. This is an important element of territorial cooperation in the EU. Through joint utilization of the potential of cross-border areas, strategies significantly contribute to achieving territorial cohesion between countries and regions. The purpose of the Carpathian Strategy is to reinforce the competitiveness and attractiveness of the region and limit the outflux of residents by means of improving the quality of their lives. It is also designed to contribute to a dynamic and sustainable development of this area. The Carpathian Strategy allows for closer cooperation between the countries of the region in various areas and dimensions: geography, ethnology, cooking, nature, history, and tourism. The Carpathian Strategy may become EU’s fifth macroregional strategy and second mountain strategy (the first one being the Alpine Strategy).
1515-1645 European Entrepreneurial Region - the role of regional authorities in stimulating entrepreneurship
The European Entrepreneurial Region (EER) is an initiative of the European Committee of the Regions supported by the European Commission and other EU institutions that identifies and rewards EU regions and cities in order to distinguish them for an outstanding and innovative entrepreneurial policy strategy, irrespective of their size, wealth and competences.
In this year’s special edition of the EER award, covering the years 2021-2022, the Silesian Voivodeship was granted the title of the “European Entrepreneurial Region” for a strategy promoting entrepreneurship for a sustainable recovery. The EER award was also granted to five other European cities and regions:
• Castelo Branco Municipality (Portugal),
• Gabrovo Municipality (Bulgaria),
• Helsinki-Uusimaa Region (Finland),
• Madrid Region (Spain),
• Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (France).The session is organised as part of the European Future Forum, a 3-day event gathering entrepreneurs, stakeholders and policy makers of different levels. The main objective of the EER panel session is to promote tools and best practices in supporting entrepreneurship at the regional and city level. Another important element of the panel will be the European Entrepreneurial Region award and the way that the European Committee of the Regions is supporting entrepreneurship and cooperation among the European regions and cities through this project. By inviting representatives of other EER regions to take part in the discussion, the panel will concentrate on the most recent and most effective ways of supporting entrepreneurship aiming at a sustainable recovery.
The panel aims at answering the following questions:
• What should be the role of local (regional or city) authorities in shaping and stimulating entrepreneurship and what tools are the most effective at the regional/city level?
• What actions proposed in the EER strategies were key to become awarded with the title of the European Entrepreneurial Region 2021-2022? How the EER strategies will be implemented in the awarded EER regions?
• What should be the ideal policy framework for SMEs, including the division of roles and responsibilities at EU, national and regional/local level and how to promote “think small, act regional” approach to policy making?
• What regions and cities can do to support the twin transition of the economy (digital & green) and what challenges and opportunities did the covid-19 pandemic bring from the perspective of public policies?
New conference center room 1
1515-1645 Export as an opportunity for development and transformation of enterprises
The sector of small and medium-sized enterprises is the foundation of the economic market. It is characterized by great development potential. In Poland, most of the registered companies are SMEs. Many entrepreneurs, despite the large development potential, base their activities only on the domestic market and do not decide to export.
International trade is developing intensively. Forecasts predict that by the end of 2022, the global value of cross-border trade between companies will increase by 30%, to $ 35 trillion. Nevertheless, a large part of Polish enterprises from the SME sector is still reluctant to expand the sales area and expand into foreign markets.
How can exports affect the development and strengthening of the company’s market position? What are the benefits of a well-prepared and systematically implemented export strategy? What should entrepreneurs remember when preparing to expand into foreign markets?
New conference center room 2
Europe’s digital future
The most important challenge for the European economy in the next decade is the digital revolution and universal robotization. Europe should be associated in the world as a leader of new processes and not aim at reindustrialisation and creation of new jobs in old-type factories. It should think how to save the entrepreneurship and innovation of Europeans, because they are the key to the success of the Old Continent in the new times. Adequate education can play a major role in this process.1330-1500 Digital acceleration: the common Internet - debate on the future of digitization
Technological race. Unfortunately, Europe is not a leader in it. The development of the latest technologies is currently mainly the USA and Asian countries. China, with its potential and projects China 2025 and China 2050, are becoming a technology leader. The European Union undertakes a number of actions aimed not so much at catching up with world leaders, as at not widening the distance. Does the EU have a chance in this technology race? Is it right to adopt the assumption that human rights are primarily protected at the expense of the development of algorithms and AI? Is the regulation of algorithms, as well as their control by national and EU institutions, the right way?
A global view of the development of the Internet and access to information – is it possible? (reference and discussion in terms of the UN IGF). Digital Exclusion. Lack of Internet access in poorer countries (global view, not our regional view and invitation to the IGF).
Compared to other EU countries, Poland has a lot of catching up to do. Blockchain as a basic goverment tool is an exceptionally serious challenge for Poland. Are we ready for the digital identity (European ID) proposed in eIDAS2, qualified attributes, no document circulation and in its place entry in blocks and value tokenization?
Is 700 thousand qualified electronic signatures issued as a success or failure in the field of paperless. How to change mentality and move away from paper. Data sharing – Pandora’s box, or is it the right solution for today’s times?
Digital transformation of the broadly understood justice system (including law corporations) – an urgent business need. Law implementation in algorithmic codes – it is already happening. Smart contract – a wasted opportunity for Poland.
Ecological transformation is digital transformation. How to stimulate, among others Silesian agglomeration for changes in terms of eco smart cities?
The problem of the lack of specialists, low and very low digital competences of the society. New professions? Will AI replace human? Will guaranteed income soon become a necessity? How to educate young people?
1515-1645 Responsible economic transformation based on knowledge and innovation
The development of knowledge has taken place throughout human history. However, recently, a significant increase in the phenomena of economic development associated with the wide application of knowledge has been noticed. These phenomena aroused the interest of international organizations such as the United Nations, OECD and the World Bank. In the knowledge-based economy, transnational corporations and ordinary enterprises look for further development opportunities.
The contemporary concept of economic growth – long-term growth is a model whose success is not determined by savings, but largely depends on broadly understood investments in human capital, inventions and innovations. Activities in this area bring positive externalities related to the dissemination of knowledge, technological progress and innovation.
KBE is based on four basic pillars: education and training, IT infrastructure, economic incentives and institutional conditions, innovation systems.
Theses for the panel: joint acceleration – debate about the future
Technological race. Unfortunately, Europe is not a leader in it. The development of the latest technologies is currently mainly the USA and Asian countries. China, with its potential and projects China 2025 and China 2050, are becoming a technology leader. The European Union undertakes a number of actions aimed not so much at catching up with world leaders, but rather at not widening the distance. Does the EU have a chance in this technology race? Is it right to adopt the assumption that human rights are primarily protected at the expense of the development of algorithms and AI? Is the regulation of algorithms, as well as their control by national and EU institutions, the right way?
A global view of the development of the Internet and access to information – is it possible? (reference and discussion in terms of the IGF ONZ). Digital Exclusion. Lack of Internet access in poorer countries (global view, not our regional view and invitation to the IGF).
Compared to other EU countries, Poland has a lot of catching up to do. Blockchain as a basic goverment tool is an exceptionally serious challenge for Poland. Are we ready for the digital identity (European ID) proposed in eIDAS2, qualified attributes, no document circulation and in its place entry in blocks and value tokenization?
Is 700 thousand the issued qualified electronic signatures should be considered a success or failure in the field of paperless. How to change mentality and move away from paper? Data sharing – Pandora’s box, or is it the right solution for today’s times?
Digital transformation of the broadly understood justice system (including law corporations) – an urgent business need. Law implementation in algorithmic codes – it is already happening. Smart contract – a wasted opportunity for Poland.
Ecological transformation is digital transformation. How to stimulate, among others Silesian agglomeration for changes in terms of eco smart cities?
The problem of the lack of specialists, low and very low digital competences of the society. New professions? Will AI replace human? Will guaranteed income soon become a necessity? How to educate young people?
Panel name: Round table
Round table about the development of the software house industry in the Silesian Voivodeship
New conference center room 3
Regional Innovation Strategy
1100-1330 RIS 2030 ``Regional Innovation Strategy of the Silesian Voivodeship 2030`` - INTELLIGENT TRANSFORMATION
The new European Bauhaus (NEB) is an initiative based on sustainability, accessibility and aesthetics, aimed at improving the quality of our daily life and co-creating a sustainable future that takes into account both converging needs and goals as well as complex social problems. NEB is a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, thanks to which you can develop innovative solutions, support experiments in communication between the world of science and technology and the world of culture and art, and meet the challenges of green and digital transformation.
The meeting will be devoted to promoting the principle of good design as a tool for implementing innovations adapted to recipients of products and services. It will be a debate on the future of one of the Smart Specializations of the Silesian Voivodeship and the summary of the long-term Design4Innovation project, funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Interreg Europa program.
1330-1600 Final conference: 'Designing new growth - supporting SMEs to use Design for Innovation'
Designing new growth – helping businesses on transition to more sustainable, more collaborative, more humane economy
New conference center room 4
The direction of electromobility
1330-1500 Challenges for the development of electromobility as a new economic sector in Poland
The electromobility sector in Poland is accelerating. As a country, are we prepared to take advantage of the opportunities related to this? What are the challenges facing companies that already operate in a new industry or want to use the trend for the development of their own enterprises? Is it possible to build a coherent electromobility ecosystem in Poland based on local solutions? How to educate staff for the needs of a new industry? Challenges for companies and regions. Electric car value chain.
1515-1645 Hydrogen as the fuel of the future
The energy market in Europe is undergoing a technological transformation. Its main pillars are just transition, building a parallel, zero-emission energy system and good air quality. What about hydrogen?
Theses for internationalization:
- Internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises as the next stage of regional economic development
- Internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises – directions of enterprise expansion
- From supporting foreign investors to supporting the expansion of companies outside
- Internationalization of enterprises – influence on the economic development of the region and the labor market
- Goals of foreign expansion of companies – why do companies decide to invest abroad and how to support them?
- Entrepreneurs’ needs and expectations regarding internationalization support
- Free or paid support
- Internationalization support tools from the national level
- Tools to support internationalization in the Silesian Voivodeship
- Good practices to support internationalization
- Barriers and challenges that constitute obstacles to the internationalization of SMEs
- Entrepreneurs’ expectations regarding various forms of support from public administration
Conference room 5
1330-1500 Is the meat industry declining? Report announcement: “Pork. New Perspective``
In the public space, there are more and more voices talking about the harmfulness of breeding and meat production. The sector presents itself as having a negative impact on the environment, health and society. The latest report prepared by the Polish Meat Union in cooperation with leading Polish scientists contradicts this thesis. It presents the state of knowledge on the impact of pork on various areas of life. It presents ways to reduce negative impact and shows the chances of facing challenges. But most of all, it brings new arguments to the discussion on the pork sector and provokes discussion.
1515-1645 Agriculture without CO2 - up to 30 TWh of clean electricity and greater energy security
The agricultural energy sector, based on agri-food waste, is still at an early stage of development in Poland. Despite many attempts, it still faces administrative and social barriers. The latest findings by prof. Alina Jusko-Kowalczyk, show that, in addition to the previously known benefits, the development of biogas plants and biomethane plants can almost offset greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, thanks to the production of clean electricity. With the maximum use of Polish biogas potential, even 26 million tons of CO2 less would be produced, i.e. 80% of today’s emissions from agriculture. With additional measures, based e.g. on the use of heat, Polish agriculture would become zero-emission and Poland would gain a stable source of energy based on Polish raw materials.
Conference room 7
1330-1500 Should business be socially responsible? What would such a responsibility consist of?
VIP Rooms
Europe & The World. Vision of young people
1000-1115 Oxford debates
Thesis: In schools, students should be able to choose esports instead of traditional physical education.
- I LO im. Walerian Łukasiński in Dąbrowa Górnicza versus III LO im. Adam Mickiewicz in Katowice.
- I LO im. Mikołaj Kopernik in Katowice versus Technical College TEB Edukacja in Tychy.
- ZS No. 1 for them. Adam Mickiewicz in Lubliniec versus IV High School for them. Stanisław Staszica in Sosnowiec.
1130-1245 Oxford debates
Thesis: European Union countries should introduce a 32-hour working week.
- I LO im. Walerian Łukasiński in Dąbrowa Górnicza versus I LO im. Leon Kruczkowski in Tychy.
- I LO im. Nicolaus Copernicus in Katowice versus IV LO im. Gen. Stanisław Maczek in Katowice.
- ZS No. 1 for them. Adam Mickiewicz in Lubliniec versus ZS No. 1 im. Gustaw Morcinek in Tychy.
1300-1415 Oxford debates
Thesis: The European Union should strive to include the countries of the former Yugoslavia as soon as possible, even at the cost of lowering the accession requirements.
- III LO im. Adam Mickiewicz in Katowice versus I LO im. Leon Kruczkowski in Tychy.
- Technikum TEB Edukacja in Tychy versus IV LO im. Gen. Stanisław Maczek in Katowice.
- IV LO im. Stanisław Staszic in Sosnowiec versus ZS No. 1im. Gustaw Morcinek in Tychy.
Gala of the European Future Forum
1900-2000 Awards ceremony
2000-2100 Music concert
- Day II
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Conference space at the stadium
1000-1130 Plenary session. Regional dimension of entrepreneurship: Cooperation on international markets
Building a modern and competitive regional economy requires the ability to create and transform knowledge into new products, technologies or services. These skills today determine the market success of both individual economic entities and entire regions. The construction of sustainable development of the region is determined by knowledge and innovation resources, human and social capital, the density of network relations and the tendency to cooperate.
1145-1315 The internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises as the next stage of regional economic development
1330-1500 A breath for the city
Annual air quality assessments in the Śląskie Voivodeship carried out by the Provincial Inspectorate for Environmental Protection in Katowice indicate a very poor condition of air quality in the voivodeship. The results from the air quality measuring stations of the State Environmental Monitoring show significantly higher pollutant concentrations in the period from October to March, compared to the rest of the year.
What can we do about it? Sit, breathe and complain about whether we, as inhabitants of Silesia, can take real action to improve the air we all breathe. The heating season begins, during which we will look at our loved ones – as every year, they have breathing problems, of course there is smog from car exhaust fumes, and we have such well-developed public transport. It is also worth noting that research shows that cigarette smoke, which we seemingly do not notice, has a powerful impact on air quality. We invite you to the panel entitled “Breathing for the city”, during which we want to jointly plan real actions from NOW, aimed at improving air quality in our voivodeship.
New conference center
1000-1130 Inaugural session. The future of Special Economic Zones
The natural question becomes – what’s next with SEZ? What new development directions can they take? For over two decades, special economic zones have contributed to the rebuilding of industry in many regions of Poland. In regions where SEZ manages it, it has often meant a complete socio-economic transformation of a given area. It has managed not only to reduce unemployment, but above all to create development prospects for the coming years. Today, the goal is to continue this mission and continue to create positive prospects – for industry, for employees and also for investors. In the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, conditions are not easy, but a quarter of a century of SEZ operation has proven that the zones were created precisely to function in difficult conditions.
1145-1300 Implementation of the European Green Deal policy - opportunities for the Silesian economy.
Green investments, green finances, Green Deal as a long-term development strategy, 2021 as the time of the economy’s transition to “green positions”. During the discussion, we want to raise important issues regarding changes in the world economy in the context of climate challenges and the future of the economy in the Silesian Voivodeship, listening to the voices of numerous experts and specialists from business, scientific and political circles.
1145-1300 Industry of the future - digital transformation at your fingertips
Silesia Smart Systems – a digital innovation center coordinated by the Katowice Special Economic Zone, Presentations of modern solutions in three areas of specialization – automation and robotics, cybersecurity and 3D printing (Tekniska, 5sAutomate, Technopark)
1315-1430 Polish Investment Zone - legal aspects and benefits for the SME sector
After more than 20 years of operation of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in Poland, the time has come for changes and a new idea in terms of incentives for investors. The slogan “the whole of Poland as a Special Economic Zone” was largely implemented in 2018, when a new support program – the so-called “Polish Investment Zone” (Polska Strefa Inwestycji – PSI), which is an extension of the existing SEZs, and is ultimately intended to replace them.
1315-1430 Cooperation between business and education as a path to success
During the panel, we will try to answer to the questions: necessity or choice – how important is the cooperation between the spheres of business and education nowadays? What does the success of this cooperation depend on? Does it increase the chances for development and better work? What effects can be achieved thanks to this cooperation? What is ahead – what are the challenges facing employers, economic zones and local governments in adapting the educational offer to the needs of the labor market?
1445-1600 Building a center of creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship - KSSENON business accelerator
The challenge for our region is the development of the innovation ecosystem. Our task is to signal important issues to be solved, problem areas that relate to the development of business environment institutions in the Silesian Voivodeship that create cooperation to increase the innovativeness of companies. Modern infrastructure, knowledge transfer, consulting, personnel adapted to the needs of modern economy are these sufficient factors of success?
1445-1600 Building international economic relations of the KSEZ as the motor of automotive - cooperation within the SA&AM Cluster in response to the challenges of the automotive sector
The ability to build international relations is considered one of the basic competences in business. It is a difficult art even in the home country, and even more so in relations with business partners from different countries. Special economic zones + chambers of commerce + investors + banks. Is this a good recipe for attracting FDI and, as a result, building international economic relations?
1630-1830 KSEZ is the motor of automotive - cooperation within the SA&AM Cluster in response to the challenges of the automotive sector
The automotive industry, the most important industrial sector in Silesia, faces many challenges: continuous reduction of transport emissions, new low and zero-emission drives, the 4th industrial revolution, lack of raw materials and problems on the labor market.
We will talk with representatives of the following companies: Stellantis (OPEL Gliwice / FCA Tychy), Electromobility Poland, ZF, Nexteer, Marco, Aiut, eq system, and the Institute of Innovative Technologies Bosmal and the AWSB university, we will talk about the role and importance of cooperation within the Silesia Automotive & Advanced Cluster Manufacturing to face the industry’s challenges:
Preparation of the production of new vehicle models in Silesia, construction of new supply chains and the role of the SA&AM Cluster in initiating cooperation with local suppliers,
Product development and use of the region’s research potential,
New competences for new projects in the automotive industry – the role of cooperation with universities and schools within the SA&AM Cluster,
Industrial transformation of the sector – cooperation of the automotive industry with suppliers of new Industry 4.0 technologies associated in the SA&AM Cluster.
1900-0000 The jubilee gala of the KSEZ and the accompanying cultural event ``KSEZ - Patron of Culture and Art``
Conference room 5
Saxon-Silesian simul + workshop:
“Regional value chains in the era of digitization”-
Digitization: Software / Hardware / Connectivity / 5G & 6G
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Smart Production
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Smart Region / Smart City
1000-1010 Welcoming and opening
1010-1020 Introduction: Saxony and Poland
1020-1100 The potential of Polish-German cooperation in the area of Smart IoT solutions and software development
1100-1115 Effective implementation of Industry 4.0 solutions: From customer requirements through the ``digital twin`` to the real object
1135-1200 Saxony and Silesia: Intelligent Automotive Solutions
1200-1215 5G campus networks and intelligent telecommunications solutions
1215-1235 Smart Region: Development of an attractive region through digitization
1235-1300 Intelligent use of data in the network, summary of the workshop and a common perspective
1330-1600 Polish-German exchange of business and research contacts
Conference room 6
1000-1130 Polish model of forest management and the European Biodiversity Strategy
In May 2020, the European Commission announced the adoption of the 2030 Biodiversity Strategy, the consequence of which is the presentation of a new strategy for the protection and restoration of forests in the European Union called the Forest 2030 Strategy. During the panel, the speakers will present their positions in relation to the Strategy’s assumptions. They will present and discuss the possible consequences of meeting the obligations contained in its provisions. How will the Strategy affect forest management and will it prove effective in protecting forest ecosystems and mitigating the effects of climate change?
1145-1315 Regional Development Funds as institutional innovation in the regions
A few years ago in Poland, there was a discussion about establishing regional development banks, following the example of German solutions. Today, no one is talking about it anymore, but already 13 voivodeships have established their Regional Development Funds (RFR). This is one of the most interesting institutional innovations in recent years. The exhaustion of non-returnable aid from the EU and the growing tendency to replace it with financial instruments mean that there is a growing need to accumulate own resources in order to finance regional development policies. The accumulation of funds for repayable instruments managed by voivodeship self-governments through the RFR increases the independence of planning and implementation of the regional development policy from external sources of financing – including, for example, funds from the central budget or the EU. Accumulation of such resources secures the sustainability of Polish development policy, in connection with the depletion of non-returnable financial aid. The value of accumulated funds allocated to offering repayable instruments in Polish regions currently amounts to about four billion zlotys, but by 2027 it may already reach about 20 billion zlotys. Currently in Poland there is a two-tier system of financial institutions supporting regional development, present at the national and regional level. These institutions both cooperate and compete with each other. At the regional level, the Implementation Act and the Act on the voivodeship self-government made it possible for the voivodeship self-government to create the RFR, appointed to carry out tasks related to creating conditions for economic development. Moreover, the funds started to self-organize their activities in the form of exchange of experiences through the economic self-government within the Polish Association of Regional Development Funds.
- How to finance the regional development when the model of financing EU development policy changes?
- Can repayable financing replace grants, and if so, where?
- Do Regional Development Funds create an opportunity to increase the effectiveness of development financing? If so, how to use it?
- Where to get funds for the development of the RFR?
- What are the organizational and functional models of RFR operating in the regions?
- What are the challenges facing the regions that have not created the Regional Development Fund?
- What role should Regional Development Funds play in the future?
1330-1500 The future of interstate conflicts - the role of the citizen
Currently, the security situation in our part of Europe indicates that a significant threat will be the growing role of asymmetric and destabilizing conflicts, which may indirectly affect the economic situation of the endangered region.
The system of general state defense should become the main method of counteracting the above-mentioned threats. The cornerstones of such a system are: citizens aware of their obligations, access to firearms, popularization of shooting sport. The system of universal defense is not a solution to all problems, the modernization and increasing the number of the Armed Forces still has to be progressed, but it can and should ensure a quick profit for the State in the form of deterrence. It is the duty of the state to use the available civic resources (hunters, sport shooters) in order to improve the security of the state. During the panel, we will also discuss the impact of the development of shooting on the improvement of entrepreneurship and state security.
Conference room 7
1000-1130 Round table on the development of the software house industry in the Silesian Voivodeship
- Shortage of programmers and cooperation between business and administration in this area
- Tax incentives for the IT sector
- Competitiveness of the Polish industry on the global arena
1145-1315 Challenges and opportunities of the Silesian startup ecosystem - 6 pillars necessary to build effective communication
1330-1500 Your success on the internet with the use of effective internet marketing tools
During the panel, the speakers will present business development opportunities based on effective Internet marketing tools in the enterprise:
- The most current trends in digital marketing, to which every company should adjust its promotion and communication strategies,
- Discussing the possibility of implementing ready-made solutions in your company or organization in the field of e-business solutions,
- Inspiration for you, i.e. interesting examples of specific implementations and success stories,
- Presentation of recommendations for implementation for 2022 in your company to stay ahead of the competition on the Internet in the fight for an increasingly demanding customer.
1515-1745 PLUG AND PLAY InSilesia Investment SFR startup competition - Final
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- Day III
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Conference space at the stadium
1000-1130 Construction investments: regulatory challenges of the future
Market tendencies overtaking legal regulations. Digitization of construction law. First conclusions after the reform. The role of public administration in the investment process. Effective law: the perspective of a developer, designer, clerk and lawyer.
1145-1315 Is omnichannel the future of commerce?
- Omnichannel as a multi-channel sales approach that combines online and offline sales.
- Its origin, essence and application in the era of pandemic and progressing technological development.
- Barriers and challenges of its adaptation in order to achieve sales success not only on European markets, but also on many times larger Asian markets.
- The main tools and strategies that enable a holistic approach to brand development and its importance in a given market sector.
1330-1500 Medicine in the times of COVID
New conference center room 1
1000-1130 Global challenges in road transport
1145-1315 Promotion of Poland - what makes us different?
The issue of promoting Poland is still a still actual topic. Polish export is developing dynamically, unfortunately it suffers from the structural problem of low margins. One of the ways to increase it is technological advancement, as well as having your own distribution network and brand recognition. The brand is a margin. In the discussion, we will consider how to constantly strengthen the brand of Poland as a country and build brand recognition of Polish companies. The topic has been raised for years, but still it is very relevant. Perhaps great strategies are not needed, but painstaking work on building the strength of Polish enterprises.
1330-1500 The future of the labor market in the context of technological and social changes
The labor market is extremely susceptible to any changes, which means that it is subject to constant observation and analysis. Currently, the burden of discussion in its context focuses on two areas: social – related to the entry into the labor market of new generations characterized by different motivators and attitudes to work, and the reduction of resources related to the demographic situation and aging of society, technological – related to automation, displacement of workers by machines and the wider context of this phenomenon, such as the separation of work from the geographical location, employee specialization or lifelong learning. The discussion will be aimed at analyzing selected global directions of the labor market evolution and their impact on the market itself and the supply of jobs in our country.
New conference center room 2
Conference: European Rail Transport 2050
1000-1040 Inaugural speech
1100-1300 Rail transport as a key element of the European Green Deal 2050. Diversifying energy sources and ensuring more efficient rail mobility as an opportunity for the environment and the energy sector
1330-1430 Rail transport as a key element of the European Green Deal 2050. Diversification of energy sources and ensuring more efficient mobility of railways as an opportunity for the environment and the energy sector
1500-1630 How is technology fueling the future of railways? Innovations that could shape the future of rail travel
New conference center room 3
1200-1330 Tourism in the postcovid era - #StayHomeToday to #TravelTomorrow
Tourism is one of the industries, along with gastronomy, that were hardest hit during the pandemic. During the panel, however, we will want to consider whether and what positive changes, periodic or permanent, have recently taken place in this industry. The speakers will answer the questions about the image of Polish tourism after over a year of struggle with the pandemic, and how has the image of the Polish hotel market/travel agency / tourist attractions/tourist events market changed, including business tourism?
Are there any new trends in the behavior of guests/tourists, are some of them dominant, will some of them remain permanent? What is the future of this industry and will new products/services be created or modified?
We definitely want to show some positive conclusions that the industry has drawn from the last period.
1400-1530 Wind energy as an opportunity for the development of the Polish economy
The panel will discuss the opportunities that wind energy provides to Polish companies for development. Supply chains and the possibility of Polish companies joining in will be shown. Additionally, the concept of building a Training Center in Silesia for the purposes of retraining employees for renewable energy will be presented.
New Conference Center
The event accompanying day III – Conference of the Silesian Aviation Cluster. Aviation, drone and space industries as economic sectors enabling the development of the region
900-950 Two years of aviation with COVID19. Opportunities and directions for the development of the industry after the pandemic
Almost two years have passed since the COVID19 pandemic began. Aviation is one of the economic sectors most affected by losses caused by traffic restrictions. How big are the losses in the industry? How much has passenger transport decreased compared to 2019? How different is the situation from the point of view of PPL (the largest airport operator in Poland), Katowice Airport (the largest regional airport) and Kaniów Airport – an airport focused on general aviation? Our panellists will try to answer these questions during the interview. In addition, the subject of the new functioning of the corporation will be discussed, with limited travel opportunities caused by the Covid 19 pandemic. The performers will also present to us what they believe are the opportunities and directions for the development of the aviation industry after the pandemic.
1000-1055 Drones in urbanized space. The importance of the sector for cities, metropolises and regions
Drone traffic management system. National and European regulations. Research projects and new solutions in the field of the use of drones in urban space.
1110-1200 Test areas for drones in Poland and Europe
The concept of Central – European Drone Demonstrator compared to other European solutions.
1220-1400 Drones as a new branch of the aviation industry. Overview of the development of the sector in Poland and Europe. New projects, technologies, examples of international and intersectoral cooperation (especially with the defense and space industry)
1440-1525 Building the technological potential of Polish enterprises in the space industry
1530-1615 European cooperation within the drone sector and the aviation industry
Cooperation of European aviation and drone clusters (EACP, EDC)
1615-1630 End of the conference
Stadium pitch
1055-1110 Drone show, part 1
1210-1220 Drone show, part 2
1400-1440 Drone show with drone races
Conference
room 51445-1615 The future of Silesian waste management versus the European Green Deal and climate neutrality
The panel will discuss issues related to:
- the shape and condition of the Silesian waste management
- Silesia’s problems in the field of waste management after the decision about the impossibility of building ITPO by metropolises, etc.
- closing the waste management system in Silesia without an incineration plant
- obtaining political and social consensus for environmentally difficult implementation
- the concept of waste management in Poland and its adaptation to modern standards in the field of waste management
- The European Green Deal and its impact on waste management
- EU climate taxonomy and waste management
Conference
room 7The accompanying event for day III – the e-sport tournament for the Cup Winners’ Cup
900-1600 Polish Qualifying Tournament for the IESF World Championship
in Israel. The tournament will be attended by the best Polish teams from the best domestic gaming leagues: CS, GO, Tekken, PES
Event partner: ESA E-sport AssociationVIP Rooms
Oxford debates
1000-1400 Final of the Oksford Debates
Final theses
- Climate movements should prioritize positive messages over negative messages.
- The growing popularity of Nihilism in popular culture has a negative impact on society.
- As soon as possible, the extinction of hard coal mines in the Silesian Voivodeship will do more harm than good.
* The above program is valid as of October 6, 2021