On 22 January 2026, SMARCO organised its first engagement event with the Pact for Skills community, in collaboration with the Digital Large-Scale Partnership (Digital LSP). The event, titled “Digital LSP Matchmaking Event – Insights from the Alliance for Sectoral Cooperation on Skills”, combined an informative policy-focused session with a structured matchmaking activity aimed at fostering collaboration across the digital skills ecosystem, particularly in view of upcoming Erasmus+ calls.
Insights from the Alliances for Sectoral Cooperation on Skills
The first part of the event provided participants with valuable insights from the Alliance for Sectoral Cooperation on Skills, outlining key trends, challenges and emerging opportunities in digital skills development across Europe. The discussion highlighted the growing need for coordinated, sector-specific approaches to upskilling and reskilling, especially in fast-evolving domains linked to smart and sustainable communities.
Within this context, SMARCO was introduced to the audience, presenting its objectives, methodological framework and expected impact. The project’s approach to identifying skills gaps, developing targeted training programmes and strengthening cooperation between education providers, public authorities and industry stakeholders was met with strong interest from participants.
A central focus of the session was the presentation of SMARCO’s short-term courses and the associated piloting opportunities. These learning offers are designed to address emerging skills needs in smart communities, while supporting flexible upskilling and reskilling pathways aligned with the priorities of the Pact for Skills.
Matchmaking for future Erasmus+ collaboration
The second part of the event shifted towards structured matchmaking around potential joint initiatives, particularly in view of upcoming Erasmus+ calls. This interactive format encouraged participants to identify synergies, share project ideas and initiate partnerships that can further strengthen Europe’s digital skills landscape.
Laying the groundwork for the Smart Communities Skills Partnership
This first engagement event marked the initial activation of the Smart Communities Skills Partnership within the Pact for Skills framework. The partnership, to be formally established during Year 2 of the project, aims to ensure sustained collaboration and long-term stakeholder involvement beyond the lifetime of SMARCO.
By bringing together key actors from the European digital skills ecosystem, the event represented an important milestone in building a strong and committed community around skills for smart communities.
