Success graces the EuroNanoForum 2003 Hosted on the cusp of EU enlargement in 2004, the EuroNanoForum in late 2003 was instrumental in fostering an economy that embraces nanotechnology across the enlarged EU. Digital Economy © Thinkstock The EU has strived to show its pioneering spirit in the field of nanosciences and nanotechnology on a global scale through a series of events in recent years. One of the earliest and most pioneering events was the EuroNanoForum 2003 (ENF 2003). The forum was held in December 2003 in Trieste, Italy and promoted vigorously by the EU in partnership with stakeholders from Japan and the United States. The event brought together around 1,250 delegates hailing from 47 countries, represented through 210 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), 25 international networks and 21 corporations. It assessed the current situation at the time in developing nanosciences and nanotechnologies in Europe in an international context, forging links with Japan, Russia and the United States. Challenges tackled by the project include overcoming barriers to nanotechnology, disseminating cutting-edge data on the topic and enhancing networking with the European Research Area (ERA). ENF 2003 also opened collaboration possibilities for researchers, government players and SMEs, raising awareness about the impact and importance of nanotechnologies. Moreover, special emphasis was put on involving EU states that joined the bloc in 2004, accelerating regional development across borders and providing technical assistance to Central and Eastern European nations. The project overall supported the shift from traditional industries towards an increasingly knowledge-based economy, bringing progress in the application and adoption of nanotech products and services. These are important contributions to increasing sustainable development in the EU's newest countries and advancing the ERA.
