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MAKE SCIENCE MATTER

October 15, 2026
RESIDENCE PALACE, Brussels

About the EULiST interactive conference

MAKE SCIENCE MATTER

In an era of rapid technological change and complex global challenges, scientific innovation with societal impact requires active engagement and trust, not just information sharing. To drive real progress and keep serving society at its best, science must be accessible, understood, and – most importantly – it must always MATTER.

To bridge this gap, EULiST—true to its core mission of linking society and technology - presents the MAKE SCIENCE MATTER interactive conference. This event brings together three forces that can drive this change: Policymakers, Academia, and Cities and Regions. By bringing these worlds together, we move science out of isolated labs and straight into the heart of our communities.

Because real impact requires action and a direct, multi-way dialogue, you won’t just be an observer in the audience - you will be a vital contributor. This co-creation begins the moment you register. Through our Interactive Area - a dedicated digital portal, you can immediately bring your energy and insights to the table by sharing challenges and contributing best practices, questions, and suggestions upfront or during the event. Your input will directly feed into our live discussions and presentations on stage and actively shape the final EULiST Brussels Statement - a community-driven manifesto for Europe's future.

Don’t just take a seat. Take part.

TOGETHER, WE MAKE SCIENCE MATTER.

THREE FORCES, ONE GOAL: BRIDGING THE GAPS

To effectively link society and technology, knowledge cannot exist in silos. The MAKE SCIENCE MATTER conference is about the synergy of three interconnected pillars, driving real-world impact from different angles:

The European Commission

Providing the strategic vision with high-level policy and extensive funding needed to catalyze new knowledge and drive continental growth.

European Universities

Conducting generative and rigorous research, driving technology transfer and transforming regional challenges into "living labs" to cultivate the skilled talent Europe needs.

European Cities & Regions

Acting not just as testing grounds, but as vital driving forces for local implementation, cohesion and resilience — bridging the gap between grand institutions and a people-centered Europe.

The Ultimate Goal of THE CONFERENCE

To demonstrate the tangible societal benefits that collaborative innovation delivers when these three forces work in alignment.

By engaging both online and on-site participants through the Interactive Area, your collective expertise will directly shape the EULiST Brussels Statement: a community-driven manifesto aimed at focusing future investment exactly where Europe needs it most.

Program

8:30: Coffee and Registration

9:00: Opening and Keynote speeches

10:00: Coffee break

10:30: Round Table 1: Science Matters. now more than ever?

12:00: Lunch break

13:00: Round Table 2: Can innovation come from cities and regions?

14:30: Coffee break

15:00: Round Table 3: What´s next for European Universities?

16:30: Wrap up - EULiST Brussels Statement

17:00: Closing

WHY JOIN THE DIALOGUE?

Whether you join us live in Brussels or connect remotely, your experience matters. In-person attendees will enjoy invaluable face-to-face networking, cross-sector debates, and direct connections within the vibrant community. Online participants will gain full live-stream access and a direct seat at the digital table.

BECOME A CO-CREATOR TODAY

Once you register, your journey begins immediately. Well before the event, we will deliver exclusive early access to the Interactive Area directly to your inbox. You will be able to submit your regional challenges and vote on key priorities and much more before the first keynote even starts

Activities

The Make Science Matters offers a range of sessions that provide participants the opportunity to interact and learn from each other.
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KEYNOTES

Get Inspired! Listen to leading voices at the intersection of science and society. Our keynote speakers will set the stage for the day, sparking profound insights on how tobridge the gap between research and real-world impact.
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ROUND TABLES

Engage in Debates! Deep dive into our three core themes through dynamic,moderated discussions. This is your dedicated space to challenge ideas, share practical solutions, and drive the conversation forward during our Q&A segments.
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NETWORKING

Connect & Collaborate! Your expertise matters. Move beyond small talk to build meaningful, cross-sector connections. Based on participant profiles, we identify key shared topics to host dedicated discussion hubs during breaks.
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INTERACTIVE AREA

Your voice matters! Launching before the event, this interactive space allows for sharing regional challenges, posting innovative proposals, and submitting real- time insights.
Your contributions will actively feed into live on-stage discussions and shape the final Brussels Statement
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Venue

Residence Palace, Rue de la Loi 155, 1040 Bruxelles, Belgium