Membership
The Vanguard Initiative brings together leading European regions committed to accelerating innovation through collaboration.
The actual members are regional governments inclusive of their respective regional development and/or innovation agencies, who have the access to the respective regional innovation ecosystems.
With 33 regions across Europe, the Vanguard Initiative offers a strategic gateway to connect clusters, research institutes, universities, and businesses into a united European innovation community that drives resilience and leadership.
Why Membership Matters
Being part of the Vanguard Initiative means taking an active role in shaping Europe’s innovation leadership. Membership gives regions the opportunity to:
Connect ecosystems
across borders, linking local strengths to European priorities.
Join innovation pilots
that accelerate new technologies from concept to demonstration.
Shape European policy
ensuring regional perspectives are heard in Brussels.
Access collaboration platforms
that strengthen local industries and innovation capacity.
How We Work With Our Members
The Vanguard Initiative ensures that every member region has a voice and a role in shaping Europe’s innovation leadership.
General Assembly & Board
The General Assembly is the main decision-making body, where all members meet to set priorities.
An elected Board provides strategic direction and leadership.
General Assembly & Board
Innovation Pilot set-up, support & monitoring
Vinnovate interregional funding instrument
Policy Intelligence
Communication strategy
Regular Meetings
Members meet several times a year, both online and in person, through the various governance formats (Network Regional Meetings & General Assembly, Board and Annual Political meeting) as well as the Steering Committees for the implementation instruments. These sessions allow members to exchange updates, align priorities, and reinforce Europe-wide collaboration.
Pilot Participation
Regions actively take part in Innovation Pilots, contributing infrastructure, test facilities, or research capacities. This hands-on participation is the foundation of the Vanguard Initiative’s mission: turning regional innovation into European resilience.
Join the Vanguard Initiative
Is your region ready to connect its innovation ecosystem with others across Europe?
Becoming a member gives your region a seat at the table where Europe’s industrial future is shaped.