INTERREG-SUDOE Ceramic+ Project: Creating open innovation ecosystems for the traditional artisans of the future

Decorative ceramic techniques are disappearing due to a lack of support in Europe and the loss of the necessary knowledge. However, there is a clear public interest in crafts and traditions. This is reflected in current interior design trends and the use of some revived artisanal techniques in contemporary design. CERAMIC+ aims to:

• Develop and improve the innovation capabilities of SMEs in the traditional ceramics sector and of artisans.
• To seek and assimilate technological solutions to common challenges.
• Strengthening the traditional ceramics sector, as a sector of excellence in the SUDOE area.

The mission of CERAMIC+ is to strategically integrate traditional ceramic craftsmanship with cutting-edge technologies, promoting the revitalization and internationalization of the artisan sector, through cooperation and pooling of resources in the 4 priority regions of the SUDOE challenge, these territories being the most representative of the ceramic sector: Valencian Community-Spain, New Aquitaine and Occitanie-France, and Central-Portugal, for the development of a common strategy, action plans and the validation of technologies that promote the modernization, revitalization and internationalization of the craft and SMEs of the ceramic sector.

The strategy will combine the preservation of ceramic cultural heritage, advanced sustainable manufacturing technologies, and knowledge transfer to artisans and SMEs through ceramic schools, technology centers, and associations. Implementations include pilot activities that will validate technological solutions, adding value to ceramic craftsmanship, increasing the efficiency of SMEs and artisans, and conserving and updating cultural heritage. CERAMIC+ transforms local culture into economic and social development, turning the region into a laboratory of creativity and knowledge. Innovation lies in preserving traditional assets and crafts, adding value in the form of new products through technological upgrades and comprehensive transnational support strategies for artisans and SMEs in the sector.