This was Innovation Day Ljubljana 2024!

On 13 November 2024, Innovation Day Ljubljana brought together pioneers in advanced manufacturing, robotics, and health technologies to explore their potential in shaping smarter cities and healthier communities. Hosted by SRIP Factories of the Future and the Jožef Stefan Institute, and supported by EIT Manufacturing, EIT Health, and key partners, the event showcased groundbreaking ideas at the intersection of industry and innovation.

Hannes Hunschofsky, Managing Director, EIT Manufacturing East welcoming attendees

The Manufacturing Panel, moderated by Hannes Hunschofsky, Managing Director of EIT Manufacturing East, highlighted how cutting-edge manufacturing technologies are enabling sustainable urban development. Nina Kostevšek from the Jožef Stefan Institute emphasized the pivotal role of materials in cancer therapy, presenting advancements in nanomaterials for targeted drug delivery and treatment. Fernando Alba Elías from the University of La Rioja showcased the diverse applications of green plasma technology, a sustainable solution for everything from environmental remediation to medical material enhancement. Jure Thaler from LOTRIČ Metrology introduced the EXACTUM smart control system, an innovative approach to real-time monitoring of air quality, ensuring healthier environments in schools, offices, and public spaces. Gordon Cheng from the Technical University of Munich shared cutting-edge developments in humanoid robotics and exoskeletons, including their life-changing applications in healthcare, such as enabling paraplegic patients to walk again.

In addition to the manufacturing discussions, the event placed significant emphasis on the role of technology in healthcare and urban design. Speakers from EIT Health, including Astrid Kaltenböck and Ferenc Pongracz, explored how innovations in manufacturing and medical research can support healthier communities. The Smart Cities and Communities Panel, moderated by Theresa Neuhauser, Communication Manager at EIT Manufacturing East, addressed the integration of these technologies into urban planning, focusing on practical approaches to improving environmental monitoring and infrastructure design.

Theresa Neuhauser, Communication Manager, EIT Manufacturing East

Throughout the day, speakers and attendees highlighted the importance of collaboration between researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers. Discussions often returned to the challenges of scaling research from the lab to widespread implementation, as well as the need for thoughtful integration of technology into daily life. The event concluded with a roundtable discussion that brought together perspectives from manufacturing, health, and urban innovation, reinforcing the idea that meaningful progress requires input from all sectors.

Manufacturing Panel

Innovation Day Ljubljana 2024 reaffirmed the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in driving impactful change. Sustainability and health emerged as core themes, with manufacturing innovations driving progress in both environmental sustainability and healthcare. The event underscored the importance of strong partnerships between academia, industry, and government in turning technological advancements into real-world solutions. Advanced monitoring systems, robotics, and green technologies are reshaping urban environments, paving the way for smarter and healthier cities.

EIT Manufacturing is proud to have played a key role in this impactful event, which demonstrated the potential of advanced manufacturing to build healthier, more sustainable cities.