The European Cluster of Ceramics is a beneficiary of an Interreg Sudoe project, co-financed by the ERDF, for a duration of 36 months (01/06/2025 – 31/05/2028), to revitalize and internationalize the artisanal ceramics sector. This project promotes cooperation between four Sudoe regions, representatives of the sector: Valencian Community (Spain), Centre (Portugal), Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and Occitanie (France). It represents a consortium of 10 beneficiaries and 13 associated partners, with the mission to implement sustainable solutions, to develop the innovation capabilities of SMEs and artisans. Indeed, three working groups have been developed:
Preservation of cultural heritage through a digitized inventory of techniques, products, and know-how. In this context, the Cluster’s mission is to collect three testimonies of porcelain and earthenware makers to preserve their know-how. The expected result is the creation of an open access virtual library, operated by ENSAD Limoges.
Development and adoption of advanced technologies through pilot activities validating technological solutions to be integrated into the artisanal sector to increase the competitiveness of SMEs and artisans. The Cluster is responsible for developing a Marketplace, whose purpose is to present products resulting from the hybridization of artisanal know-how with technologies. Sustainable over time, it is a tool, free in charge, for valorizing the actors of the sector: each interested actor, from the Sudoe Region, will be able to complete their activity sheet with the content they wish, develop their network through contact forms, showcase their activity and increase their visibility.
Implementation of strategies and action plans, under the responsibility of the Cluster. A Committee of Experts has been set up with representatives of the beneficiaries and associated partners. External experts may join the committee during the project. The work includes a comparative study of European innovation capacities, which will lead to the development of a common strategy for supporting innovation and four regional action plans.
Finally, the Cluster is responsible for the communication and dissemination plan. In this context, it manages the communication strategy and participates in exhibitions / conventions, such as Ceramitec to promote CERAMIC+.