On Friday, March 1, 2024, an event took place at the Biotechnical Faculty in Ljubljana, organized by the European initiative Next Generation BiOactiVe NAnocoatings – NOVA and the Slovenian Innovation Hub – SIS EGIZ. The purpose of the event was to foster connections, exchange ideas, explore potential collaborations, and co-create the future in the fields of health and innovation.

Dr. Alenka Rožaj Brvar, the Director of SIS EGIZ, presented the areas of activity of SIS EGIZ and the SRIP Health – Medicine, outlining examples of successful cooperation within international networks supporting the transfer of innovations to the market. She also introduced two European projects actively involving SIS EGIZ: Senior Eco-Nect and HealthChain (I3).

Following the presentation by SIS EGIZ, the project leader of NOVA, Dr. Sara Espinoza, introduced the project itself, focusing on the next generation of bioactive coatings based on nanoparticles. This project involves 14 partners from 9 countries, collaborating to develop new antimicrobial coatings for the future, actively preventing the transmission of infectious diseases in everyday life and hospital environments. The project is funded by the European Commission, the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation, and the Research and Development Fund of the United Kingdom.

A multidisciplinary team of scientists and industry representatives is diligently developing new antibacterial nano-coatings, striving to create effective, environmentally friendly, safe, and stable coatings for various surfaces such as textiles, paints, or electronics. They are focusing on surfaces frequently touched by people, which can serve as sources of infection, such as airports and hospitals. The presentation of individual project partners, from institutes to innovative companies, was particularly engaging. Given the comprehensive nature of the project concept, we anticipate excellent results.

After the official presentations, networking followed, aiming to create as many potential international collaborations in the field of health and innovation as possible.

We extend our gratitude to all participants, speakers, and co-organizers for their contributions.

Here you can DOWNLOAD  the PPT presentation.