15 years of K4I Forum in the European Parliament, special edition, Jan 2024

SHAPING THE FUTURE

K4I Forum takes green road for future generations

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Humanity is edging along a tightrope that is in danger of becoming the noose that strangles it out of existence. Right now, at least 20 wars or conflicts are ending lives and destroying countless futures worldwide. Up to 780 million people around the planet are going hungry, according to UN figures released in 2023. Weather extremes are becoming weather norms. And in the midst of it all, the world is facing its biggest ever election year, with 50%+ of the global population heading to the polls in 2023... Happy New Year!

What in some parts of the world is called shit life syndrome, when poverty and abuse destroy all semblance of hope in people, threatens to morph into shit world syndrome, a collective loss of hope in the idea that a better world is possible. It feels like a spectrum of pain - and yet most people still believe that better is possible. All the ingredients are there, and if we stop chucking them all over the floor, turn them into what’s good for all of us, we can perhaps renew some genuine hope in the future.

By investing in areas this magazine has long advocated for: purpose-driven innovation, scalable solutions that can deliver a just transition, and policies that are good for people and the planet, we can make the segway.

And there are signs that these investments are being made, way too slowly, but momentum is everything. Organisations like the K4I Forum in the European Parliament, and the newly launched global alliance: Allied4Future (AF4) are driving the momentum. Inside this edition, we look at the impact these two organisations are making and reveal their vision for a better future. Operating at the heart of Europe’s innovation ecosystem, the K4I Forum’s influence in creating milestones moments of progress, like the adoption of the New European Innovation Agenda and the advancement of the European Green Deal, is clear. What it, and A4F, plan to do next promises to produce even bigger payoffs, not just for Europe but the world.

Two landmark global events held in December also offer hope. The European Innovation Area Summit, which took place in the European Parliament and was led by the K4I Forum; and COP28 in Dubai, which was covered extensively by AF4, in partnership with OnePoint5Media. These types of events are often dismissed by the public as talking shops, junkets likely to achieve nothing. But the pledges and commitments to take real action indicate that the world might be wisening up and looking to step down from the tightrope and onto a more verdant footing.

Iain Robertson EDITOR

Propelling Europe forward

Maria da Graça Carvalho MEP Chair, Knowledge4Innovation Forum

in the European Parliament

In the dynamic tapestry of global challenges, the imperative pursuit of groundbreaking ideas has evolved from a choice to a necessity. Within the pages of this magazine, we unveil a testament to the transformative force of Science, Research & Innovation (R&I), technology, and the digital transition.

Marking 15 years of the Knowledge4Innovation Forum in the European Parliament, we celebrate a legacy of collaboration uniting academics, researchers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. This forum serves as a guiding beacon, directing us towards innovative solutions and sustainable progress.

As you delve into these pages, the reflections of key figures echo through the corridors of time. From European Commission President José Manuel Barroso to the current President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, different European Commissioners, the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, and numerous Members of the European Parliament. Their unwavering support has moulded the trajectory of Knowledge4Innovation, providing a

compass for our collective journey.

These pages emphasise the past and future endeavours dedicated to supporting science, research, and innovation, weaving the narrative of technological advancement as a cornerstone for the green and digital transitions. Our commitment is rooted in propelling Europe to global competitiveness and achieving a sustainable economy.

This journey is a manifestation of collaborative efforts, streamlined pathways, and strategic financial backing, propelling Europe forward, where innovative ideas turn into tangible solutions, securing our competitiveness on the global stage.

As the Chair of the Forum, it gives me immense pride to see such groundbreaking initiatives brought to the forefront by an organization that has been a pioneer in Europe’s innovation landscape since 2009.

The impact of the K4I Forum is something that Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Innovation, acknowledged in her keynote speech at the European Innovation Area Summit in June 2022, at the time of the launch of the New European Innovation

Agenda. She emphasized, “The Knowledge4Innovation platform has served the objective of providing the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the stakeholders group with the forum for discussing innovation.”

Similarly, women innovators and female-led startups, another focus area of the activity of Knowledge4Innovation Forum in the European Parliament, are contributing some of the most vital solutions. Commissioner Gabriel, passionate about this space, noted that women innovators are “responsible for some of the most groundbreaking innovations contributing to a more sustainable future.”

Thank you for embarking on this journey of exploration, reflection, and inspiration. May these pages serve not just as a record of accomplishments but as a catalyst for your contributions to a future where innovation shapes the future for coming generations.

Creating a sustainable future

Marceline du Prie President, Knowledge4Innovation Forum Director, European Affairs, TU Delft

As President of Knowledge for Innovation (K4I) and on behalf of TU Delft, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to this very special edition of the Innovators Magazine looking at 15 years Knowledge4Innovation Forum in the European Parliament. In the ever-evolving landscape of innovation, our commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering groundbreaking initiatives continues to be a driving force behind our endeavours.

At TU Delft, we stand at the forefront of cutting-edge research and technological advancements, with a relentless pursuit of excellence in various domains. Our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation is reflected in the remarkable initiatives that have emerged from our institution. In this edition of the Innovators Magazine of Knowledge4Innovation, we are thrilled to showcase some of the cutting-edge initiatives that symbolise TU Delft’s dedication to shaping the future.

One of the most exciting frontiers we are exploring is the realm of quantum technologies. TU Delft is at the vanguard of quantum research, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the quantum

world. Our initiatives in quantum computing, communication, and sensing are not only advancing scientific understanding but also paving the way for revolutionary applications that will redefine the technological landscape.

Synthetic cell research is another fascinating avenue where TU Delft is making significant strides. By delving into the intricate realm of synthetic biology, our researchers are unlocking the secrets of life at the molecular level. The implications of this research are profound, with the potential to revolutionize medicine, biotechnology, and our understanding of the fundamental building blocks of life.

Climate engineering stands out as a critical focus area where TU Delft is actively contributing to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Our interdisciplinary approach brings together experts from various fields to develop innovative solutions that can mitigate the impact of climate change. Through pioneering research and collaborative initiatives, we are committed to creating a sustainable future for generations to come.

I am also delighted to highlight the “Allied4Future” (A4F) initiative, a

collaborative effort that brings together diverse stakeholders dedicated to shaping a sustainable and innovative future. This alliance exemplifies the power of collective action and the importance of forging partnerships to tackle global challenges.

I am looking forward to the upcoming World Future Forum in Lisbon this September, organized by Allied4Future. This event promises to be a unique global platform for thought leaders, innovators, and visionaries to come together, exchange ideas, and chart the course for a more sustainable and innovative future. I encourage all of you to participate in this transformative event.

In closing, I extend my gratitude to the contributors, researchers, and partners who continue to make TU Delft a hub of innovation and knowledge creation. The stories and initiatives shared in this magazine are a testament to our collective commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Thank you for joining us on this journey of discovery and innovation.

15 years of Knowledge4Innovation Forum in the European Parliament

Dr Roland Strauss Co-Founder, Knowledge4Innovation

For 15 years, Knowledge for Innovation has been our guiding principle, emphasising the significance of knowledge creation and scientific discovery. For the EU, this will be ever more important for maintaining global competitiveness, yet true progress depends on transforming our robust knowledge into tangible innovations — digital, green, and deep technologies. To accelerate the green and digital transition, our future focus is on empowering ‘green pioneers’ the drivers behind a future green economy through advocacy, impact investing and access to world class knowledge.

If I were to rename K4I today, it would be ‘Knowledge for Innovation with Purpose.’ It encourages us to consider the sense behind our actions and to clarify our fundamental goals in life. When asked by family and friends about my work, I used to explain that it is at the crossroads of policy and technology emphasizing the importance of the financial sector. While these are the main drivers of any industrial revolution or economic model, there is a fourth element that we used to overlook and that is central to the green industrial revolution and our very future: Nature.

If humanity wants to survive, the need to account for the exploitation of natural resources and the damages caused by pollution in our economic and human activities is non-negotiable. Nature and its resources form the foundation of our existence. We cannot win a battle with nature.

Thankfully, this challenge is a collective one, offering a chance for unity and collaboration rather than conflict and war.

Let’s shape the future for coming generations together, now.

The K4I Forum in the European Parliament has “been in the driving seat from the very beginning of this journey” is how former European Commissioner for Innovation, Mariya Gabriel summed up K4I Forum’s role in creating the New European Innovation Agenda adopted in 2022.

And in every decade of the 21st century the K4I Forum can be seen in this role of lead architect in the advancement of European innovation.

2009

The Knowledge4innovation Forum in the European Parliament begins shaping the future of innovation in Europe. From the start, the Forum advocates for innovation to be a top priority in European policy making, which is encouraged by then Commission President José Manuel Barroso at the 1st European Innovation Summit.

“Innovation will be the key to Europe’s recovery and to building a more sustainable economy and society after the crisis. Innovation is not just about product development: it is about how our society changes and improves. Innovation is about the way we do business, the way we work, the options we choose as consumers and citizens.”

José Manuel Barroso, Former European Commission President

The Brussels chapters: 2009 – 2024 and beyond...

K4I Forum’s annual events held In the European Parliament, Brussels, give the continent’s diverse innovation ecosystem a platform to drive transformative change. In the 2010s the K4I Forum, alongside the European Parliament and Commission, is instrumental in orchestrating milestone moments in Europe’s innovation journey: as Horizon Europe dedicates its third pillar to Innovative Europe, the European Innovation Council invests in green growth, and more than 10 bn euro of funding is mobilised for Europe’s startups.

Roland Strauss, Paul Rübig, José Manuel Barroso, Lambert van Nistelrooij at the 1st European Innovation Summit

Carlos Moedas with Lambert van Nistelrooij, K4I Forum Chair (2009 - 2019)

“The 7th European Innovation Summit is an important moment for discussion on how European innovation can contribute to our continent’s competitiveness and to solving global challenges. I would like to see Europe go further and faster towards open innovation.”

Carlos Moedas, Former European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation

K4I showcases start-ups in the European Parliament

In 2017 the K4I Forum organises the first ever, and to date only, startup pitching competition in a parliamentary plenary hall, the Hemicycle of the European Parliament. From 300 preselected startups it invites the ‘EUTOP50’ to pitch innovations to a panel of policymakers and industry leaders.

Together for impact

Collaborating with the European Institute for Innovation and Technology (EIT) - and in particular EIT RawMaterials - the K4I Forum helps create a playing field where European innovators can thrive. It is K4I Forum chair, Maria da Graça Carvalho who is the Rapporteur for the review of the EIT Regulation

“Let me first of all congratulate you for having been selected to be one of the EU Top 50 start-ups. All of you have shown the potential to disrupt a billion-dollar marketplace and make an impact on society, which is impressive. You can certainly be proud to be here today.”

Günther Oettinger, Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society

Inaugural AI & big data for Innovation Summit

In 2019 the K4I Forum launches the first AI & big data for Innovation Summit. And AI is now one of the focal points of its events programme, supported through its close cooperation with the appliedAI Institute for Europe initiative.

Collaborative action

During and after the Covid shut down, the Forum works closely with then Commissioner Mariya Gabriel to develop the European Innovation Area initiative and the New European Innovation Agenda which develops in parallel.

EUTOP50 Startup Pitching Competition, Hemicycle, European Parliament, 2017

EIT leadership discussing “How the EIT KICs will shape the future of innovation in Europe” at 11th EIS.

“That’s the atmosphere that K4I is always creating, it’s really to feel like we are a family. During the past one and a half years, you accompanied me, you inspired us to make decisions. And finally, we have the new European Innovation Agenda and you were in the driving seat from the very beginning of this journey. Thank you very much, we count on you to continue with us.”

Mariya Gabriel, Former European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education & Youth

Mariya Gabriel receiving special edition of Innovators magazine from Maria da Graça Carvalho

6 EIS - A Mandate for Innovation in Europe, front row from left to right: Jerzy Buzek , Corina Cretu, Lambert van Nistelrooij, Carlos Moedas, Christoph Keese, Phil Hogan, Friedhelm Schmider.

Jerzy Buzek , Ivana Maletić & Lambert van Nistelrooij at the 10 year anniversary of European Innovation Summit

Innovation for Purpose

Starting in 2020 the K4I Forum turns its focus towards Innovation for Purpose in support of the Green Deal objectives which are put at the centre of K4I New. The 2023 European Innovation summit agenda is entirely dedicated to the green and digital transition featuring events on renewable energy, the quantum internet and a workshop with Green Pioneers, the drivers of the clean economy.

The Knowledge4Innovation Forum in the European Parliament: The Place for Debate on a Sustainable Future; Innovation for PurposeInnovations for Good

After 15 years during which the K4I Forum was mainly looking at innovation from an EU perspective advocating for innovation to become the top priority in EU policy making, now is the time to focus on solutions for a Sustainable Future.

Our new thematic focus areas relate to the green and digital transition and address Green Deal objectives and UN Sustainable Development Goals. This is fully in line with the new orientation of the K4I Forum on “Innovation for Purpose – Innovations for Good”.

Our key topics are in the areas of climate change, clean energy and circular economy and the underlying deep tech and digital solutions that drive the green transformation. Support will not only come from technological innovations but also for concrete projects that help businesses to decarbonize or the environment to stop biodiversity loss.

Together with European Partnerships, EIT, EIC, Technical Universities, incubators and accelerators, entrepreneurship centres and impact investors as well as leading clean energy businesses, we gather Europe’s driving forces behind the green and digital transition in discussion with policy makers from EU institutions, member states and regions.

We are convinced we can help future, green economy leaders by providing access to scientific and research knowledge, access to finance, public and private and be the voice representing sustainable technology leaders from startups to industry champions.

I have been following in my different capacities in the European Commission and in the European Parliament Knowledge4Innovation activities since the 1st EIS when I was accompanying President Barroso.

Knowledge4Innovation is a network that brings together academics, researchers, industry, entrepreneurs, and policy makers. It is a very interesting platform where you can talk about and promote R&I.

My two wishes for the future are much less bureaucracy and to double the budget for Horizon and we are just starting this campaign.

It is a real wish to have a much bigger budget for R&I and work to make it more flexible and easier to use and more inclusive to all regions and countries.

(K4I ‘New’ Reception 2023)

Maria da Graça Carvalho EPP, Portugal K4I Forum Chair

Global Quantum Internet - Made in Europe

The European Innovation Summit

The program of the 15th European Innovation Summit, perfectly reflected the new focus of K4I supporting research, digital, green and deep tech development and innovative businesses that drive the emerging green economy. Discussions on evolving renewable energy solutions, quantum technology and a workshop with ‘Green Pioneers’ from Technical Universities, Entrepreneurship centres, incubators as well as impact investors showed ways towards a sustainable future.

Europe’s Green Deal and the continent’s ambitions to become the world’s first climate neutral continent by 2050 was at the heart of the European Innovation Area Summit in December 2023.

Summit sessions

In a packed summit programme, sessions on topics such as the quantum internet, alternative renewables, and green pioneers inspired ideas for what can divert capital flow in these directions. The workshop on green pioneers attracted leaders from the EIC, EIT KICs, technical universities, entrepreneurship centres, incubators and accelerators, as well as impact investors.

“We applaud the work of the K4I Forumand the workshop on green pioneers in the European Parliament highlighting the need to prioritise EU funds to technologies that will help achieve the EU Green Deal targets,” said Anna-Maria Spyriouni, Head of Europe at Climate Bonds Initiative.

Accelerating green transition

“For the green and digital transition, we need research and innovation, we need to continue investing in research and innovation, demonstrations, and pilots,” said Maria da Graça Carvalho MEP and K4I Forum Chair. And Anna Panagopoulou, Director of ‘ERA & Innovation’ at the Research and Innovation Directorate General of the European Commission, told the summit that this is very much the direction of travel. “Europe’s journey towards a sustainable and

innovative future is driven by our commitment to transforming groundbreaking research into impactful innovations contributing to the European Green Deal objectives,” Anna said. “Through initiatives like the European Innovation Council (EIC), we are empowering startups and businesses to lead the global transition towards a green economy, ensuring Europe remains a beacon of creativity, collaboration, and excellence.”

“As we navigate through the fast-paced currents of the digital age, the quantum internet emerges as the technology of the future, offering unprecedented opportunities and transforming the landscape of communication, computation, and security,” said Ivar Ijabs, MEP, ITRE Committee, Renew Europe, Latvia.

Bernd Schäfer, CEO EIT RawMaterials

Increasing investment in women-led VCs and startups

Reflections from key figures

…whose unwavering support provided the compass for our journey

The promotion of sustainable urban transport systems is an integral part of the EU regional policy. The Structural Funds have a critical role and already provide substantial investments in innovation, including smart technological and organisational solutions to reduce air pollution, CO2 emission, and noise – to make our cities more livable for everyone! (2nd EIS 2010)

Johannes Hahn

European Commissioner for Regional Policy (2010-2014), European Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations (20142019), European Commissioner for Budget and Administration (2019-present)

We predict that jobs are going to become more complex and need higher and more diversified qualifications. They will be more interesting too! You will spend less time following orders, and more time following your own initiative or working in teams to solve problems. Good science and maths teaching help students develop the skills for complex jobs – teamwork, analytical skills, creativity, risk-taking. This gives you the power to influence and shape the future. (2nd EIS 2010)

Androulla Vassiliou

European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Multilingualism and Youth (2010-2014), European Commissioner for Health

The European Commission is eager to work with the Knowledge4Innovation Forum on strategic areas, where research and innovation acts as a powerful catalyst of Europe’s recovery.

Ursula von der Leyen President of the European Commission

It is very important to pass a message that this is a moment to select and design the investments that will be in place for changing our lives in the next seven years. (7th EIS 2015)

Corina Crețu Commissioner for Regional Policy (2014-2019)

It is not just about research funding, it is not just about technology development, but it is about an integrated policy from basic research to market uptake that needs to be developed. (5th EIS 2013)

Günther H. Oettinger European Commissioner for Energy (2010-2014), European Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society (2014-2017), European Commissioner for Budget and Human Resources (2017-2019)

I have full confidence that the great effort of Knowledge4innovation to encourage innovation and creative thinking will ultimately bring benefits to EU citizens. (1st EIAS, 2022)

Roberta Metsola President of the European Parliament

Granted the Patronage of the European Parliament to the 1st EIAS

I think that education is the precondition for making Europe a better place for entrepreneurship, because if we can teach entrepreneurial skills in school for instance, or if we can create a culture of entrepreneurship in schools and in non-formal education, that could be the best way for the future place of entrepreneurship in Europe. (7th EIS 2015)

Tibor Navracsics Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (20142019)

We have set out a vision of where we should be in the long term and we clearly identify the instruments that need to be in place for our stated objective: “living well, within the limits of our planet”. (5th EIS 2013)

Janez Potočnik European Commissioner for Environment (2010-2014)

Over the next two days the European Parliament will transform into an arena of innovation. I would like to thank, therefore, the Knowledge4Innovation Platform for a fantastic idea, and most importantly for bringing it to life!

(1st EIS, 2009)

Jerzy Buzek EPP, Poland

President of the European Parliament at the time of the 1st European Innovation Summit, former K4I chair

Our goal is to protect the public interest and to generate trust among EU citizens. At the same time we want to create a framework that gives the benefit to our companies in the internal market to gain competitive advantage and develop the technology furthermore.

(AI & Big Data Innovation Summit 2023)

Tsvetelina Penkova S&D, Bulgaria

EU institutions should act together to overcome the barriers to innovation including recognizing the value of new treatments and making access to the easier boosting results.

(12th EIS, 2020)

Seán Kelly EPP, Ireland

Honoured MEP of the year 2020 for Research & Innovation

The EU is known for a wide spectrum of grant instruments supporting the way to a clean economy. However, first of all, private funding for first-of-a-kind systems of capital intensive clean technologies needs to be de-risked in order to reduce costs of financing for these systems and enable adoption. (EIAS 2023)

Ivars Ijabs Renew, Latvia

All oil-based resources should be transformed to sustainable biobased resources. All biobased resources are not by definition sustainable. Their sustainability depends on how they are produced. This realisation requires criteria based on life-cycle analysis, including indirect land use, and the implementation of the principle of cascading use of resources. Biobased resources are not infinite, especially because there is growing pressure on their use, and serious prioritisation, cascading principle, of their use is needed. There is room for bioenergy but only from waste and residue that cannot be used otherwise.

(9th EIS, 2017)

Sirpa Pietikäinen EPP, Finland

Europe was waking up very late. If we are looking at the decarbonization process in the other sectors we can see that we have been very successful, we have been cutting emissions in all the sectors, but not in transport. Transport is the only sector where the emissions have been increasing and we know that the challenge is huge. We must find smart and new solutions to have, in the same time, an active mobility and transport sector, but very low emissions.

(10th EIS, 2018)

Henna Virkkunen EPP, Finland

In the debates of K4I we discussed very clearly that we have especially to connect the local level, and its potential of innovation to the European funding. We need institutions, governments, to support and propose and push for as much dialogue as possible between stakeholders, businesses, and the academia. (7th EIS, 2015)

Brando Benifei

S&D,

Italy

Institutions and policies shape the future and we need to work together to make Europe a leader in the technological and digital transition.

(11th EIS, 2020)

Lina Gálvez Muñoz S&D, Spain

We need to ensure a coherent approach with the other already existing pieces of legislation, especially on data protection. We need to invest a lot of resources in order to foster responsible AI innovation especially for SMEs but also for research and the public sector.

(AI & Big Data Innovation Summit 2023)

Stelios Kympouropoulos EPP, Greece

I think that the relationship between public and private sector in financing is indispensable in order to really develop the future of the internet. We must improve and promote a strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.

(3rd EIS, 2011)

Pilar del Castillo Vera EPP, Spain

Horizon 2020 is supposed to strengthen particularly collaborative research by increasing the participation of industry in order to bring research based innovations to the market. Hereby, the importance of disruptive research models has to be acknowledged. The European institutions and Member States strongly committed themselves to defending EU research policy when negotiating Horizon 2020. 7th EIS, 2015

Christian Ehler EPP, Germany

In order for young people to become entrepreneurs, they need Europe to give them the support necessary to have the courage to engage with what they are actually doing, to give them the courage to develop their businesses and their own projects. (7th EIS, 2015)

Victor Negrescu S&D, Romania

From our position, we have to do everything in our power to change the way young girls envision science... Technology has to work for us, and not the other way around. It should be used as a tool to make us more than humans and to reduce biases.

(12th EIS, 2020)

Susana Solís Pérez Renew, Spain

The crossroads at which Europe currently finds itself provide an opportunity for reinventing innovation policy. We are now smart enough to know what elements of state activism are bad for the economy. We also know what kind of interventions can in fact boost innovative potential.

(4th EIS, 2012)

Danuta Hübner EPP, Poland

As we wrote in the report on SMRs, it is very important that we develop this new generations of nuclear technologies. We ask in the report support from the European Commission and it is very promising what we heard from Commissioner Kadri Simson at the nuclear forum in Bratislava, that the Commission will support also these initiatives. (EIAS 2023)

Franc Bogovič EPP, Slovenia

We need to bring together students and entrepreneurs so that they can develop their ideas in an ecosystem and not let them alone. (12th EIS)

Tim van der Hagen Rector Magnificus & President Delft University of Technology

The European Green Deal has put tremendous spotlight and pressure on the raw material sector. Raw and advanced materials are the nucleus for European industrial ecosystems, and for a successful green and digital transition. (New Year Reception 2023)

Bernd Schäfer

CEO EIT RawMaterials

Everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. Sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations. (AI & Big Data for Innovation Summit 2023)

Eunika Mercier-Laurent

Chair TC12 (AI) at IFIP, K4I Board Member

If we want to have a sustainable future, equal, respectful and resilient, women have to play a leading role in the green and digital transition. (1st EIAS, 2022)

Jara Pascual

CEO & Founder Collabwith, K4I Board Member

Cities are clearly key in driving innovation bringing the change needed in the urban environment. It is important to include the citizens into the local innovation ecosystem. (8th EIS, 2016)

Markku Markkula Former Committee of the Regions President

From Brussels to Lisbonwith a stopover in Dubai

A just transition

At around two weeks, the annual COP events are more of a marathon than a sprint but covering it every step of the way in Dubai were OnePoint5Media and Allied4Future (A4F). Allied4Future is an organisation transforming the financial landscape by directing capital towards the green economy and businesses leading in decarbonisation.

Through a series of exclusive interviews, A4F and OnePoint5Media partnered at COP28 in Dubai to showcase the innovators woking for a just transition: in areas including finance, regenerative agriculture, climate technologies, ecosystem restoration, health and education. Marc Buckley, a member of the World Economic Forum Expert Network, awardwinning global food reformist

and host of OnePoint5Media’s Inside Ideas podcast, featured dozens of changemakers and decision makers, including former American Vice President Al Gore, H.R.H Princess Abze Djima and Zach Bush, renowned physician and global expert on the microbiome.

Everyone Marc interviewed was asked for their #COPHalfFull positive view of the future. And while a few positive words won’t avert planetary crisis - vision can drive action - and direct momentum - towards its North Star.

Arvea Marieni, technical director of the Regenerative Society Foundation, the leading alliance for a regenerative economy, told Marc she was optimistic about the future hailing Allied4Future for its plans to redirect the flow of capital

Our coverage of COP 28, Dubai, was produced in partnership with

towards “tackling the extremely important gap in finance” to ensure the green and digital transitions are properly funded.

While Nicoletta Centofanti, CEO, Luxembourg Sustainable Finance Initiative (LSFI), said it is the financial sector that will be the “key enabler of the just transition” with LSFI catalysing actors within the sector to support the transition.

Leading the change

With world leaders in Dubai inspired by Europe’s ambitions to accelerate green growth, Arvea and Nicoletta were important voices. Because in delivering the European Green Deal, announcing its vision to become the world’s first climate-neutral continent by 2050 and advancing a New European Innovation Agenda

(l)Nicoletta Centofanti, CEO, Luxembourg Sustainable Finance Initiative (LSFI) and Maria Eugenia Tapia Rojo (r), the not-for-profit’s communication manager, sharing their vision of how sustainable finance systems can deliver transformational societal change.

Arvea Marieni, technical director of the Regenerative Society Foundation, the leading alliance for a regenerative economy, explaining how a just transition can be achieved.

Marc Buckley with Al Gore at the Climate Reality Leadership reception held on the edges of COP28. Marc is an alumni of Gore’s inaugural Climate Reality Leadership training programme.

H.R.H Princess Abze Djima, the Mossi Princess and Traditional Leader from Burkina Faso took time out from the negotiating rooms at COP28 to reveal that she is “convening the African royal houses for the UN Sustainable Development Goals” in a bid to “support a just transition”.

“COP28 being in the biggest oil region in the world is a #CopHalfFull because this is where the resources are, this is where the wealth is, this is where the biggest transition has to happen.”

Manjula

Lee – founder and CEO, World Wide Generation, and the G17Eco platform

action plan to accelerate its twin digital and green transitions, Europe is seen as the tralblazer for the types of transformations now being backed by governments and industry leaders at events such as COP28.

And it is organisations like Allied4Future, the Knowledge4Innovation Forum in the European Parliament, LSFI and the Regenerative Society Foundation, that are making good on Europe’s promises and inspiring the world to turn rhetoric into action.

Access all the exclusive A4F and OnePoint5Media COP28 coverage here:

Shaping the future for coming generations

Allied4Future (A4F) is bridging the climate finance gap by mobilising green capital investments for businesses driving decarbonisation.

Through innovative initiatives like the Green Growth Finance Platform, which connects investors with sustainable projects, A4F is supporting a speedy transition to a thriving global green economy by giving organisations developing sustainable, circular, and inclusive innovations, the financial means they need to succeed.

The

Sustainable Finance and Climate Deals Coalition

Allied4Future is a pioneering forum dedicated to generating positive impact for a sustainable, circular, and inclusive world.

We are a global coalition committed to restoring the Planetary Ecosystem through targeted advocacy, cutting-edge innovation, and sustainable finance. Our multifaceted approach includes bridging the climate finance gap, developing and deploying innovative clean technologies

and solutions, along with advocating for climate-friendly policies, supporting Green Pioneers.

Sustainable, circular, inclusive!

Our mission is to foster a financially viable and environmentally responsible climate economy in which our investments today lay the foundation for a healthy and sustainable world for future generations.

We want to empower people and businesses that care about a healthy planet and become role models of a circular society and leaders of the green economy.

Cultivating the green economy

Policy

Allied4Future will act as a future lobby giving a voice to the future leaders of a green economy

The basis to drive economic development and guide consumer behaviour lies in a reliable legislative framework that incentivizes green investment and rewards sustainable practices. However, policies in general and energy policy in particular have been heavily influenced by incumbent industries for too long. To accelerate the green and digital transition, it’s crucial for policymakers to engage with and incorporate perspectives from new businesses, the frontrunners in clean technology, the future leaders of a green economy.

Technology

Clean tech pioneers, drivers of the green and digital transition

There is no doubt about the crucial role of new technologies and innovations in driving the shift towards a clean, circular and climate neutral economy. A new push for sustainable technologies has been sparked by massive investment programs from governments around the world. Technology now more than ever can accelerate the transformation in climate, energy and industrial sectors.

Most impressive advancements in the recent past occur in Artificial Intelligence. AI technologies can be applied in numerous fields to help address various aspects of climate change from the discovery of new materials to the analysis of biological processes and the structure of proteins to name just a few.

Digital, green and deep tech are core in A4F activities and will occupy an important space in the agenda of the World Future Forum.

Sustainable Finance

Let’s get serious about rethinking global climate finance! Achieving climate neutrality and restoring the planetary ecosystem, adapting to climate change, and preserving natural resources require huge amounts of capital. To close the financing gap, we need to withdraw investments from sectors, companies, or projects that are considered environmentally unsustainable or harmful. The divested capital can then be shifted and reallocated for rapidly building the green economy. In close cooperation with impact investors and impact accelerators we nurture ‘green pioneers’ and finance a growing sustainable economy.

Sustainable Finance Goals

The A4F Sustainable Finance Goals provide a framework and guidance for divesting, shifting, allocating and mobilizing capital towards green ventures.

The Sustainable Finance Goals (SFGs) are geared towards directing funding and capital into climate deals, ensuring compliance with global ISSB (International Sustainability Standards Board) standards and other relevant guidelines.

SFGs promote understanding and adoption of sustainable finance and impact investing targets among corporate, institutional and individual investors.

SFGs are about leveraging capital and investment mechanisms, not just as tools for financial returns but as powerful drivers of the transition to a climate-neutral and sustainable economy.

Climate Deals

A4F Climate Deals result in impactful actions for climate mitigation and adaptation and help restoring and preserving the planetary ecosystem. At the same time, they are the building blocks for a future green economy.

Climate Deals encompass a range of activities, including the development and implementation of clean technologies, execution of sustainable projects, and support of green businesses that typically disrupt unsustainable activities.

GreenGrowth Finance Platform

The Green Growth Finance Platform is facilitating the flow of capital towards ecoconscious ventures. The software platform is powered by latest digital technologies and provides continuous information on the financial performance and environmental impact of the Climate Deals.

Climate Deals can also be established in form of contracts between investors and green project implementers.

Next stop, Lisbon

Eduardo Baptista Correia, CEO, Taguspark

In September, Allied4Future (A4F) is bringing the World Future Forum to Taguspark, the Portuguese Knowledge city, home of the largest science and technology park in Portugal, as well as the supplier of support services necessary for its activity. It occupies a total of 360 hectares, 150 of which are occupied by about 160 companies and 16,000 professionals who work and visit the park daily.

Taguspark, the Portuguese Knowledge city, is the home of the largest science and technology park in Portugal, as well as the supplier of support services necessary for its activity. It occupies a total of 360 hectares, 150 of which are occupied by about 160 companies and 16,000 professionals who work and visit the park daily.

Located in Oeiras, the most vibrant Municipality of the Lisbon metropolitan area, has a unique ecosystem in Portugal, bringing together companies, research centers, an incubator and the university. The quality of the interface allows Taguspark, organizations, entrepreneurs and startups to develop marketable solutions with export and internationalization capacity.

In 2018, Taguspark advanced a route of regeneration of its building site bringing it to the 21st century highest standards. We do create and manage exceptional working conditions for companies and businesses.

2018 was also marked by the beginning of the cultural transformation of Taguspark and the adoption of a strategy of community involvement, which resulted in the “Towards the Most Civic Park in Europe” project, which aims to involve and promote good environmental practices.

In 2020, with the acknowledgment of the importance of the arts and culture in the workplace, Taguspark created MAU – Urban Art Museum which now has more than 40 art installations and has already hosted more than 20 art exhibitions.

In 2021, Taguspark took on a new position, City of Knowledge, which embodies the new reality that is lived here, a multicultural work city, with a strong civic and artistic identity.

Finally, in 2022, the brand Fora d’Horas was created with the aim for Taguspark to become a place opened 24/7. Taguspark is now home of a theatre company that has sessions almost every

day, restaurants with different and exceptional menus and concerts at lunch.

Taguspark was created by government initiative in 1992, with the involvement of the Municipality of Oeiras, constituting a centerpiece of a municipal development strategy (now embodied in the Oeiras Valley concept) for attracting technological companies with the aim of transforming Oeiras into a unique development territory in Portugal.

Taguspark - Knowledge City is the leading science and technology park in the Iberian Peninsula standing for its continuous commitment to European growth.

Indeed, a beautiful, vibrant place for bright people!

World Future Forum, 4-6 November, Taguspark, Lisbon

AWESOME WORKPL ACES

Taguspark, the Knowledge City, where working and living brings outstanding well-being, happiness and quality of life.

TERRITORY

Oeiras Valley – located in the great Lisbon area, has positioned itself as the most vibrant and competitive municipality in Portugal, focused in science, innovation and technology. Good accessibility.

ECOSYSTEM

Towards the Most Civic Park in Europe: zero litter on the floor, zero waste of water and energy, zero badly parked cars. Cleaner energy sources and quality green spaces. Advanced solutions in recycling and minimum wage 50% above national minimum wage.

ARCHITECTURE

Innovative building architecture and modern infrastructure adapted to each company’s culture. Interconnection with complementary services, such as restaurants, exhibitions, pharmacies, etc...

KNOWLEDGE

Unique ecosystem with scientific and technological networking that promotes links between companies, research centers, start-ups’ incubator, university and other partners.

HAPPINESS

Urban Art Museum: stimulating creativity and personal development trough art. Well-kept spaces and an inspiring environment that promotes work dignity.

World Future Forum

4-6 November 2024

26-27 September 2024

Taguspark, Lisbon

To find out more or reserve your place, please check our website or contact the team at Allied4Future.