From July 1 to 3, 2025, Thessaloniki hosted the third exchange of experiences among project partners within the international project CCSI4CCSI. The event was organized by KEPA (Business and Cultural Development Centre), and during three dynamic days, participants exchanged ideas, best practices, and future visions for the cultural and creative industries.

The aim of the meeting was to explore how to strengthen support and networking among professionals in the creative sector across Europe.

On the first day, the event opened at the Hellenic Design Centre, where participants were welcomed by representatives of the Region of Central Macedonia, the project’s lead partner.

This was followed by inspiring presentations from the partner organizations:

• Greece presented the Culture for Change network, which connects culture with social change.
• Croatia showcased FUNK, an independent cultural space for artists and performers.
• Poland demonstrated collaboration between science and art through glass-related projects.
• Denmark spoke about design as a form of social innovation through projects that connect art and educational institutions.
• Belgium’s Hangar K impressed as a creative hub combining art, startups, gaming, and the large-scale WONDER festival.

Bojan Koštić, an independent artist and representative of FUNK (Forum of Independent Culture Associations), delivered a compelling presentation titled “Get the FUNK out! Independent culture” – a project that illustrates how the independent scene in a small town can spark youth engagement in non-institutional cultural activities and influence the development of local strategies.

In addition to the presentations, the partners also participated in study visits, including to the Museum of Cinematography, Beetroot Design Studio, and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOMus).

Day 3 was dedicated to the project’s steering committee meeting, during which a review of the third semester’s actions took place. Preparations and submission of the third progress report were discussed, and the next steps were planned.