Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory 2026

International Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory (IKL) | 23–27 November, Valmiera

The Vidzeme Open Innovation Centre will once again host the International Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory (IKL) in November 2026, this time focusing on collaboration between technology and the creative industries for regional development.

IKL will traditionally take place during the last week of November: the online opening session will be held on 5 November, and the in‑person working week in Valmiera will take place on 23–27 November.

Registration for researchers until 29.09.2026: Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory 2026 (researchers) – Fill out form

Below is an extended description of the Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory.

Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory: synergy between technology and the creative industries for regional development

The Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory (IKL) is an interdisciplinary collaboration platform where emerging technologies and the creative industries join forces to develop innovative solutions for Vidzeme’s economic sectors — defence, wood processing, food production, education, tourism, healthcare and more.

IKL is built on the conviction that sustainable and competitive solutions emerge precisely at the intersection of technological thinking and creative approaches. Artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, data analytics, digital twins or sociotechnical system modelling provide an analytical and structured foundation, while design, storytelling, user experience development and creative problem‑solving help make these technologies practical, understandable and economically meaningful.

In the laboratory, researchers, students and entrepreneurs work together on real development challenges faced by companies and organisations. Collaboration between technology and the creative industries enables solutions such as:

• Wood processing — digital twins of production facilities combined with design thinking and visualisation to improve production flows, reduce resource losses and develop higher‑value products. • Food production — combining data analytics with creative packaging or product concept development, including smart solutions for traceability, sustainability and consumer trust. • Educational technologies — interactive learning platforms where AI adapts content to user needs, while creative industry expertise ensures high usability, motivating design and compelling storytelling.

The IKL format allows entrepreneurs to experiment, test ideas and develop initial prototypes in a safe and structured environment without the need for large upfront investments. For students and researchers, it is an opportunity to apply knowledge in practice, connecting theory with market needs.

The Innovation Co‑Creation Laboratory in Vidzeme serves as a bridge between technology, creativity and the regional economy, fostering new products, services and collaboration models. It strengthens regional competitiveness, builds a resilient innovation ecosystem and demonstrates that cross‑sector co‑creation is one of the key drivers of regional development.