On February 4, 2025, Pécs, Hungary, hosted the highly successful opening event for the DRWO 4.0 Project Pilot Environments! Organized by the Cultural Innovation Competence Centre Association and the University of Pécs, the event brought together over 70 participants—including project partners, industry experts, and institutions from 11 European countries in the Danube region.

Focused on three key Pilot Environments – PE West (AT, DE, SI, CZ), PE South (HU, HR, BA, RS), and PE East (RO, BG, MD and UA) – the event offered a unique platform for enabling an exchange of ideas and joining collaborative efforts across the wood industry in the region. These Pilot Environments stand as hubs for innovation, driving smart and sustainable production and exploring new opportunities in digitalization, sectoral collaboration, and sustainable growth. 

Attendees, including the project ASP – Ukrainian National Forestry University and Lviv Furniture Cluster, explored the planned activities for DRWO 4.0, which will feature a dynamic line-up of events, training sessions, study visits, and knowledge exchange opportunities focused on the circular economy, digitalization, and innovative materials & technologies in the wood and furniture industry.

The day wrapped up with an inspiring visit to the Pécs Organ Manufactory, an exciting example of how centuries-old craftsmanship successfully integrates with cutting-edge technology. Participants witnessed first-hand how tradition and innovation can work hand-in-hand to fuel growth and transformation within the sector.

On February 5, project partners came together for a planning meeting, setting the course for an impactful year ahead.

Supported by EU funds, DRWO4.0 opens the door to a wider exchange of innovations and cooperation in the wood industry of the Danube region.
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