exchangeEU ready to take off in 2022

Since its launch on November 15, exchangeEU has been setting the stage for coal regions all over Europe to share experiences on how to achieve their just transition goals. The successful pre-matchmaking session for interested regions (see below) has been an important milestone leading up to the first round of exchanges. Interested regions are welcome to apply for this round until January 31, noon at the latest (see below). For further information on exchangeEU, consult the exchangeEU FAQ on the project website. In addition, you can find the project’s promotional video as well as further material and resources, free to use for promotional activities.

If you are planning to apply for exchangeEU you are encouraged to fill in the programme’s (individual or joint) application form, soon to be published on EUSurvey, linked on the project website. Meanwhile, to prepare your final application, you may download both application forms as PDF templates under “Documents” the project website to inform you about the structure and information needed to apply. Please be aware that these are only templates and applications will only be conducted via the EUSurvey individual or joint application forms.

Inspiring pre-matchmaking session on 10th December

On December 10th, delegates from 11 coal regions in Europe participated in exchangeEU’s first pre-matchmaking session leading up to their applications for the exchange programme. The participating regions came from all over the European Union, spanning from Ireland, Greece, Germany, Romania and Spain. In pitches and breakout sessions the participants networked and learned about each other's motives to participate in exchangeEU. Thus, the virtual meeting successfully managed to inform interested regions about exchangeEU. It further presented them with a unique opportunity to identify other potential regions to pair up with for the first application round of exchangeEU. While it is not required to apply jointly, the regions are encouraged to combine forces beforehand. This would not only provide them with a greater and more tailored learning experience during the exchange itself, but also give them the opportunity to customize their exchanges right from the start based on their individual needs. At this point, it is important to emphasize that those regions which were not present at the pre-matchmaking session are nevertheless and expressly welcome to apply, either individually or jointly. We invite interested stakeholders to reach out to our helpdesk as questions on the application process or potential topics, formats or matches arise. We stand ready to support you in the application process so feel free to reach out to us under exchangeeu@coalregions.eu

Deadline extension

Recognizing that 2021 has been a challenging year for everyone, exchangeEU has decided to extend its application deadline. Previously set on January 14, applications will now be open until Monday, January 31, 12:00 am CET. This will hopefully allow applicants to complete their applications after the winter break and spend some much-needed time with their families over the holidays.

Holiday Greetings

Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your interest in exchangeEU and to wish you a joyous holiday season and cheer in the New Year! We are looking forward to your applications and to continue the exchange programme with you.