On 10 March 2025, stakeholders from across Europe gathered online for an inaugural informative session entitled “Early Peek into the EU Textiles Ecosystem Platform.” This event marked the first dedicated opportunity for interested parties to learn about the upcoming Stakeholder Support Platform designed for the textiles ecosystem.

With a clear agenda aimed at presenting the platform's objectives and functionalities, the session attracted significant attention, evidenced by the turnout of 177 participants from various countries in the EU and beyond.

The event's agenda was thoughtfully structured to maximise engagement and information sharing. It began with a welcome address by Cecilia Nilsson-Bottka from the European Commission (DG GROW), followed by presentations from key speakers, including Gesine Köppe from the ITA Academy and the EY team. Attendees were introduced to the platform's vision and scope, explored its functionalities, and participated in a lively Q&A session. The event concluded with a presentation of the “Ambassadors programme” for the EU Textiles Ecosystem Platform, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that the platform aims to cultivate among stakeholders.

Feedback from participants highlighted a strong interest in the platform's features and functionalities. The insights gathered through polls revealed that stakeholders are particularly excited about networking opportunities, accessing a centralised source of information, and the ability to publish their own content. This feedback will be instrumental in shaping the platform to meet the diverse needs of its users, ensuring that it serves as a valuable resource for all involved in the textiles ecosystem.

The session underscored the importance of inclusivity and collaboration within the textiles community. Stakeholders see the platform as a tool for matchmaking and capacity building, facilitating connections among diverse actors and fostering collaboration. As the development of the EU Textiles Ecosystem Platform progresses, the lessons learned from this event will guide its evolution, ensuring it remains responsive to the needs and expectations of its growing community.