Review: SYMCRAFT Project Meeting in Zagreb: Consolidating Results and Preparing for Transfer

On June 25 and 26, 2026, the SYMCRAFT project partners met in Zagreb for the transnational project meeting and the Steering Committee meeting. The focus was on the results of the three pilot actions, an evaluation of the project work to date, and the joint steps to be taken for the final project phase.

Focus on Three Pilot Initiatives

The first day of the meeting was devoted in detail to the project’s three pilot initiatives. The partners presented and discussed the results to date regarding the reuse of industrial waste materials for new products, the development of sustainable eco-business models, and models of cooperation between industry, the skilled trades, and the creative industries.

The focus was not only on the approaches that had been developed, but above all on the lessons learned from their practical implementation: Which methods have proven effective? Where do challenges still exist? And how can the insights gained be put to use by other companies, industries, and regions?

The ongoing communication efforts and the planned communication materials for the developed SYMCRAFT solutions were also coordinated.

From the Pilot Phase to Implementation

Another key focus was the transition to the third work package. Together, the project partners worked on evaluating the pilot actions and validating their results across national borders. Building on this, the SYMCRAFT action plan is intended to identify concrete opportunities for continuing and utilizing the project results.

The discussion also focused on networking and knowledge-transfer activities designed to disseminate the tools and cooperation models developed beyond the organizations directly involved. The goal is to strengthen long-term ties between industry, skilled trades, the creative industries, and supporting institutions.

Haslach: Rethinking Textile Waste

On the second day, Joana from the Haslach Textile Center presented the summer program under the theme “WASTE – Rethinking Textile Waste” and invited the project partners to participate.

From July 20 to 31, visitors to Haslach were treated to a diverse program of workshops, lectures, exhibitions, and the international weavers’ market. The focus was on how textile scraps can be transformed into valuable products through artisanal expertise, creative experimentation, and new collaborations.

SYMCRAFT serves as the driving force behind the wide range of initiatives in Haslach: The project brings stakeholders together, fosters collaboration across different sectors, and helps transform textile scraps into new products and creative ideas.

A Joint Look at the Project's Completion

At the conclusion of the meeting, the agenda focused on project and financial management, as well as the organization of the final event in Italy in September. The meeting in Zagreb made it clear that the final phase of the project is not merely about completing ongoing work. Rather, the goal is to consolidate the proven solutions, share experiences, and establish sustainable partnerships that will endure beyond the end of the project.

SYMCRAFT is thus continuing on its path: from the joint development and testing of concrete solutions to their sustainable implementation in companies, the skilled trades, and regional networks.