The FITT-NESS project consortium met on 24–25 March in Milan, hosted by FederlegnoArredo. The meeting provided an opportunity to advance ongoing activities, review progress, and plan the next steps of the project.
From SHINE 2Europe, Inês Saavedra and Paola Bello represented the organisation. Discussions focused on updates and future steps for the Train-the-Trainer Programme and the development of policy recommendations. These activities will involve contributions from stakeholders connected to the furniture sector, as well as areas including green buildings, smart homes, design-for-all, and age-friendly environments.
During the visit, the consortium explored the Museo del Design Italiano, which offered valuable insights related to the furniture sector. The following day included visits to Dotdotdot and OpenDot, where participants observed how co-creation is applied in multiple projects and how solutions are prototyped with end-users, demonstrating innovative approaches to user-centred design and how different stakeholders can be effectively connected. This aspect is particularly relevant to the scope of the FITT-NESS project.
The FITT-NESS project connects four regional innovation ecosystems in the furniture sector, including Lombardy in Italy, Murcia in Spain, Northern Portugal, and Sicily in Italy. The project promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation, with a focus on smart homes and inclusive environments. It strengthens inter-regional partnerships and creates new business opportunities. More information is available at FITT-NESS.