On 12 March 2026, experts and policymakers came together for the event “TBM Working Group Experts Share Insights: Boosting Talent Through Innovation, Skills and Quality of Life”, organised under the Talent Booster Mechanism (TBM) by the European Commission Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO). The session marked the conclusion of two and a half years of collaborative work across 88 experts from 22 European countries, representing regional authorities, research organisations, industry, and policy bodies.
The TBM initiative explored ways to address regional demographic challenges and strengthen talent ecosystems, focusing on innovation, skills development, and quality of life as essential components for retaining and attracting talent.
Digital skills and innovation: preparing regions for the future
A core theme of the event was how innovation and digitalisation can drive regional talent development. Participants presented a self-assessment tool developed by the Digital and Research & Innovation Working Groups, enabling regions to evaluate their readiness to attract, retain, and develop talent. The tool helps identify gaps in innovation, governance, skills supply, and essential services, offering regions a clear picture of their strengths and areas for improvement.
Challenges such as digital skills shortages, connectivity gaps, and infrastructure limitations—especially in rural areas—were discussed, alongside practical solutions to build regional digital skills ecosystems linking public authorities, training providers, and employers.
Another key output was a practical guide for SMEs, providing strategies to adopt digital solutions, enhance innovation capacity, and strengthen regional competitiveness—critical steps to improve talent retention and regional resilience.
Linking research, skills, and local impact
The Toolkit on Knowledge Valorisation at Regional Level, developed with contributions from EARLALL and presented by ART-ER, offers guidance on transforming research into economic and societal value. By highlighting governance models, collaboration mechanisms, and skills for innovation, the toolkit helps regions connect research, business, and public policy, strengthening regional innovation ecosystems.
Policy recommendations from the TBM also emphasised inclusive, place-based skills strategies, promoting STEAM education, talent retention, recognition of non-formal learning, and governance approaches that address regional disparities.
LCAMP-relevant examples were highlighted, including the Jobs & Skills Observatory, which demonstrates how strategic partnerships, lifelong learning initiatives, and regional monitoring can help anticipate skills needs and support talent development in Europe’s regions.
Quality of life: retaining talent through inclusion and wellbeing
Participants stressed that quality of life and access to essential services are key to attracting and retaining talent. Inclusive societies, healthcare, education, and social infrastructure are essential components of regions where people can thrive, aligning closely with LCAMP’s focus on lifelong learning and workforce development.
Continuing the conversation
Although the TBM working groups have officially concluded, the exchange of ideas and collaboration will continue. As François Gallaga, Team Leader at DG REGIO, noted, dialogue between regions, policymakers, and experts remains critical. A final in-person event on 28 May will reflect on outcomes and next steps for regional talent development initiatives.