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The 2nd Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU Project

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By Project FBI4EU
A group of individuals standing in a conference room in front of a projector screen displaying a slide for the "2nd International Partnership Meeting" of the FBI4EU project. The background slide shows the Interreg Europe logo and an illustration of a forest.

Setting the Stage: Reviewing the First Semester

The 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project convened in Rzeszów, Poland, in November 2024. Hosted by the Rzeszów Regional Development Agency (RRDA), the event brought together partners from across Europe to reflect on progress and chart the way forward. The meeting opened with a review of the first semester’s activities, focusing on management, financial updates, and communication strategies. These discussions provided an opportunity to celebrate successes and address challenges as the project moved into its second semester.

A meeting room with a presenter standing next to a projector screen displaying the title "PR1 Status: Financial report & Activity summary." A group of participants is seated at a long table, engaging in discussion and taking notes.
A session during the 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project, focusing on the PR1 status, financial reports, and activity summary. The interactive discussion highlights collaboration and progress among partners.

Refining Methodologies: Good Practice Selection

A key session during the meeting was dedicated to refining the methodologies for identifying good practices within the forest-based industry. Led by LRCAF, partners discussed survey and interview techniques designed to ensure a thorough and inclusive selection process. The collaborative nature of this session allowed participants to share insights and contribute to a robust methodology.

A presenter standing near a screen displaying a slide titled "Sampling and participant selection." The slide outlines criteria such as sector, relevance, experience, and diversity for selecting companies in forest-based industries, along with survey and interview goals.
LRCAF's presentation during the 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project, focusing on good practices surveys and interviews. The session highlighted the criteria for participant selection, aiming to identify innovative and sustainable practices in forest-based industries.

Strategic Analysis: SWOT Discussions

Partners also engaged in an in-depth analysis of the SWOT results gathered during the project. Moderated by LRCAF, this session delved into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the sector. The insights generated during this discussion laid the groundwork for strategies to address regional and interregional challenges.

A presenter standing near a screen displaying a slide with the title "Weaknesses," part of a SWOT analysis. The slide lists challenges faced by forest-based industries, such as lack of cohesion, low added value, and data availability issues. A flipchart is visible nearby. Title: Presentation of SWOT Analysis by Filière Bois Wallonie
Filière Bois Wallonie's presentation during the 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project. The session provided an in-depth SWOT analysis, with a focus on the weaknesses of forest-based industries, addressing critical challenges such as market fragmentation, lack of innovation, and limited access to hardwood resources.

Looking Ahead: Developing a Comprehensive Report

Another significant component of the meeting was planning the report on the current state of the forest-based industry. Redea led the discussions, outlining a framework for this vital document. Partners agreed on key topics and approaches to ensure the report captures the sector's challenges, opportunities, and best practices.

Two presenters stand near a screen displaying a slide with the title "Discussion" and an image of a forest and a group of people at a table. The presentation appears to engage the audience, some of whom are seated and taking notes.
A presentation during the 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project, outlining the methodology for preparing a joint report on the current state of the forest-based industry. The session encouraged active participation and discussion among attendees.

The highlight of the meeting was a workshop focused on leveraging policy instruments to enhance the competitiveness of forest-based industry SMEs. Facilitated by RRDA, the session explored financial and legal incentives, factors influencing public and private investments, and strategies for fostering public-private partnerships. Group discussions encouraged participants to share experiences and develop actionable strategies for supporting SMEs in the sector.

A group of participants actively engaged in a workshop discussion, with some seated and reviewing documents while others stand nearby observing or contributing to the conversation. The setting is a conference room.
Participants of the 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project collaborate during a workshop session. The interactive activity focused on reviewing materials and exchanging ideas to advance the project's objectives.

Industry Innovations: Expert Presentations

The second day of the meeting featured two expert presentations. Zbigniew Karaszewski, CEO of Onliwood, introduced an innovative timber sales portal, highlighting its potential to revolutionize market access and resource management. Stefan Traczyk, CEO of the Association of Foresters and Forest Owners, presented the concept of Forest Chambers, a legislative initiative designed to strengthen industry representation and collaboration among stakeholders.

A group of individuals in warm clothing stand outdoors during a site visit, with piles of wood and a green warehouse visible in the background. The participants appear engaged in conversation or listening to a guide.
Participants of the 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project during a study visit to Drew BIK. The visit provided insights into wood processing operations and highlighted innovative practices in the forest-based industry.

Participants concluded the meeting with study visits to REMET and DREW-BIK, two companies exemplifying innovation in the forest-based industry. REMET demonstrated advancements in sustainable wood processing, while DREW-BIK showcased cutting-edge technologies in furniture manufacturing. These visits offered valuable insights into practical applications of the project’s goals.

Strengthening Collaboration for the Future

The 2nd International Partnership Meeting of the FBI4EU project successfully advanced its objectives, fostering collaboration and innovation among partners. Through strategic discussions, practical workshops, and firsthand industry insights, the meeting reinforced the project’s commitment to supporting the growth and sustainability of forest-based industry SMEs across Europe. With a clear roadmap and strengthened partnerships, the project is poised to continue driving progress in the sector.

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