As Europe faces mounting challenges in water sustainability, marine ecosystems, and climate resilience, a major international initiative is taking shape. The INNFLOW consortium, a leading network of researchers, industry experts, and policymakers, convened in Berlin on March 25-26 to drive forward a strategic vision for Europe’s water, marine, and maritime sectors. Hosted by the Einstein Center Digital Future (ECDF) and Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin), this pivotal meeting played a key role in preparing a groundbreaking proposal for the upcoming European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC) Water call.
Laying the groundwork for European leadership in water innovation
The INNFLOW initiative unites world-class institutions and businesses to develop transformative solutions that address critical water challenges while enhancing Europe's global leadership in the field. This Berlin meeting was part of a larger series of strategic discussions across Europe, shaping an ambitious proposal for the EIT Water KIC program. With a strong emphasis on education, innovation, and market-driven solutions, INNFLOW is committed to delivering cutting-edge technologies and policy frameworks that will boost economic impact, job creation, and sustainable business growth.
The INNFLOW initiative unites world-class institutions and businesses to develop transformative solutions that address critical water challenges while enhancing Europe's global leadership in the field
Professor Manuel Pulido, director of IIAMA (Spain) and INNFLOW coordinator, emphasized the initiative’s significance: “The collaborative framework provided by INNFLOW is crucial. It enables the sharing of knowledge and technologies that are essential for strengthening water resilience throughout Europe.”
Innovation at the heart of water sustainability
The Berlin discussions addressed key technological advancements, including predictive systems for drought and flood management, digital solutions for decision-making, and enhanced public engagement strategies. These innovations align closely with European strategic priorities such as the new European Water Resilience Strategy, ensuring that Europe remains at the forefront of sustainable water management.
“INNFLOW will be essential to accelerating the development and commercialization of innovative solutions that directly align with the European Union’s priorities in the Water, Marine, and Maritime sectors. It will act as a powerful catalyst for sustainable and transformative change”, added an industry leader from INNFLOW.
Andrea Cominola, head of the Smart Water Networks Lab at ECDF – TU Berlin, emphasized Berlin’s role in shaping Europe’s water innovation agenda: “The ideas and opportunities cultivated during these intensive meetings will significantly advance the EU’s long-term strategies for water resilience.”
Shaping the future of water innovation in Europe
INNFLOW is actively forging strategic collaborations to expand its impact beyond Europe, reinforcing its position as a leader in global water sustainability. As the proposal for the EIT Water KIC takes shape, the consortium is committed to ensuring that the initiative drives real-world impact, with a focus on swift market adoption and sustainable economic growth.
Professor Blanca Antizar, Director of Consulting at Isle Utilities Ltd, emphasized the interlink between education, innovation and business creation: “INNFLOW directly links educational advances, novel solutions, and the creation of viable business for a water-resilient Europe. This interconnected approach, amplified by wider ecosystem collaboration, is key to accelerating strategic advancements in water security.”
The Berlin meeting marked a decisive step in this journey, reinforcing Europe’s role as a global leader in water innovation and sustainable development. With a united vision and cutting-edge solutions, INNFLOW is poised to transform the way water resources are managed, ensuring a resilient and prosperous future for all.
