VULCA SEMINAR

8th Edition | 1-6 November 2025
JRC Collab & Makerspace, Ispra, Italy

Annual gathering of makers, makerspaces, and associated networks. 

5 days to strengthen the European Maker Movement.

WE INVITE OUR MEMBERS

to participate in this unique opportunity

to meet and exchange experiences, know-how and best practices with researchers, practitioners, and makers

at the heart of EU research

The European Maker Movement has been recognised for its transformative potential to shape education, drive innovation, and redefine manufacturing.

Characterised by its emphasis on collaborative, experimental and transdisciplinary problem-solving approaches, the Maker Movement can play a key role in shaping a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for Europe.

By harnessing the collective creativity, expertise, and passion of makers, researchers, and innovators, Europe can unlock new opportunities for growth, entrepreneurship, and social progress.

COME AND JOIN THE DYNAMIC OF

MAKERSPACES in European Programmes

Over the past decade, the maker movement have actively contributed to various European funding programmes, yet many still struggle to navigate these opportunities.

This VULCA Seminar provides an insightful overview of FabLabs’ participation in EU Programmes.

Attendees will leave with a better understanding of funding trends, the role of FabLabs in European policies, and practical insights into how they can take part in future opportunities.

VULCA ft JRC

WHICH FUTURE TOGETHER?

What are the key areas where VULCA's expertise and capabilities align with the Joint Research Centre's priorities? What opportunities exist for VULCA to contribute or support the Joint Research Centre's mission and activities?

The JRC conducts research on innovation, digital fabrication, and societal trends. VULCA’s network and on-the-ground experience could provide valuable data and insights for JRC’s studies. Together, we could collaborate on studies assessing the economic, social, and environmental impact of the maker movement in Europe.

Apply to propose content

The JRC provides scientific evidence to support EU policy-making. VULCA’s knowledge of the maker ecosystem could inform policies related to digital skills, innovation, and regional development. We could collaborate on developing guidelines and best practices for supporting maker spaces and fostering maker-driven innovation.

Apply to propose content

The JRC is interested in the role of maker spaces in education and training. VULCA’s network could facilitate the exchange of educational resources and best practices. Joint initiatives could focus on developing educational programs and training materials for maker spaces, promoting digital literacy, and fostering creativity.

Apply to propose content

Both the JRC and VULCA are involved in promoting open innovation and citizen science. We could collaborate on projects that leverage the maker movement to address societal challenges. We already supported each other through the Residency programme of the JRC where several VULCA members took part. https://cop-demos.jrc.ec.europa.eu/jrc-makers-in-residence

Apply to propose content

The JRC could work with VULCA to help standardize safety and best practices within makerspaces across the EU. Creating guidelines for equipment use, material safety, and accessibility.

Apply to propose content

VULCA SEMINAR

PROTO-PROGRAMME

DAY 0

SATURDAY 01.11.25

Arrival and get used to the hotel.

Evening networking between members
MEMBERS

DAY 1

SUNDAY 02.11.25

Formal/Informal days for members to get to know each other. Take times in small group for a hike in Mountain or a tour of the Lake.

We'll propose you, if you want to visit a local makerspace nearby.

Evening networking between members
MEMBERS

Day 2

MONDAY 03.11.25

Registration at the JRC
Opening conference
VULCA General assembly
VULCA Workshops
ALL

DAY 3

TUESDAY 04.11.25

MORNING: Inspiration & Framework
09:30 - 10:00 : Welcome & Ice-breaking
10:00 - 10:45 : Introduction to European Programs (Focus on KA2)
10:45 - 11:15 : Coffee Break & Networking
11:15 - 12:30: Talks: "Share Your EU Experience"

12:30 - 14:00 : LUNCH BREAK

AFTERNOON: Co-writing & Community Sharing
14:00 - 16:00 : Workshop 1: Building the Project's Vision and Narrative
16:00 - 16:30 : Coffee Break & Transition
16:30 - 18:00 : Community Workshops
18:00 - 19:00 : Aperitivo (Snacks and drinks)
ALL

DAY 4

WEDNESDAY 05.11.25

MORNING: Building the Action Plan (Workshop 2)
09:30 - 10:00 : Welcome Coffee & Recap of Day 1
10:00 - 12:30 : Workshop 2: Building the Action Plan and Resources

12:30 - 14:00 : LUNCH BREAK

AFTERNOON: Finalizing the Project & Pitching
14:00 - 15:30 : Workshop 3: Defining the Project's Legacy & The "Crash Test"
15:30 - 16:00 : Coffee Break
16:00 - 18:00 : Workshop 4: Final Pitch & Perspectives
18:00 - 19:00 : Aperitivo (Snacks and drinks)

EVENING
19:30 : JRC Club House evening party
ALL

Day 5

THURSDAY 06.11.25
Visit of Fablab in Milan
and departure over evening
ALL

Tickets – ALL INFO

ONLY 60 TICKETS AVAILABLE

MEMBERS TICKET

5 DAYS ACCESS for members

1-6 November 2025

Choose your own price between 0€ and 300€

INCLUDES
1 meals by day included

NON-MEMBERS TICKET

3 DAYS ACCESS for non members

3-6 November 2025

Fixed price : 150€/pers

INCLUDES
1 meals by day included

The JRC Collab & Makerspace,

The first of its kind in an EU institution, is located at the Joint Research Centre’s Ispra site.
Vulca was honoured to be invited to participate in the inaugural event in 2019.

ALBUM FROM 2019

Back to 2024

MEMORIES FROM VULCA SEMINAR
IN ZAM ERLANGEN, GERMANY

VULCA's network and practical experience make a powerful synergy to support the growth and development of the maker movement in Europe.

THANKS TO OUR

OUR PARTNERS 2025

Without you it wouldn't be possible