The three-day event provided a valuable opportunity for participants to strengthen their knowledge and skills around the transfer of good practices, while exchanging experiences with cities and organisations involved in URBACT networks across Europe.
Focusing on stakeholder engagement
A central theme throughout the programme was the role of stakeholders in making knowledge transfer effective and sustainable.
The three thematic days explored:
- Expanding your stakeholder map for effective transfer
- Engaging stakeholders in the transfer process
- Designing opportunities for stakeholder involvement
The topics provided useful perspectives for the SPARK partners as they continue working on the transfer and adaptation of Kavala's Good Practice on sustainable and socially responsible public procurement to their respective local contexts.
Effective stakeholder engagement is particularly important for SPARK, as the successful transfer of a Good Practice requires not only the adaptation of tools and approaches, but also the active involvement of the people and organisations who will contribute to and benefit from their implementation at local level.
Learning beyond the sessions
The URBACT University was also an opportunity for participants to learn from one another beyond the formal programme.
With representatives from Transfer Networks bringing different local experiences, challenges and perspectives, the event created an environment for peer learning, networking and informal exchange. Conversations between sessions and the personal connections developed throughout the event are an important part of building trust and supporting long-term transnational cooperation.
Study visits and activities in Cork complemented the thematic programme, allowing participants to explore the city together and gain insights into its local context and experiences.
For the SPARK partners, the University therefore offered a combination of knowledge, inspiration and meaningful connections, strengthening the network as it moves towards the next stages of the transfer process.
Looking ahead
The experience and exchanges in Cork will feed into the ongoing work of the SPARK partners as they continue developing their local approaches to the transfer of the Good Practice.
With new ideas, perspectives and connections, the network now looks ahead to its upcoming activities and the next Transnational Meeting, continuing its work towards more sustainable, socially responsible and locally impactful public procurement.
Learning together. Connecting across Europe. Turning knowledge into action.