top of page
PUBLICATIONS

The Competitive Edge
A Blog by the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils


A Step-by-Step Guide to Place-making Innovation
Around the world, cities and regions are striving to find ways to differentiate themselves and innovate to transform local and regional economies. The GFCC, in partnership with Prof. Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Aston University, advocates for a holistic and structured model that places universities at the center of local and regional socio-economic transformation, an approach called place-making innovation. GFCC member Aston University has been a key actor driving
6 days ago3 min read


A Step-by-Step Guide to Place-making Innovation
Around the world, cities and regions are striving to find ways to differentiate themselves and innovate to transform local and regional economies. The GFCC, in partnership with Prof. Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Aston University, advocates for a holistic and structured model that places universities at the center of local and regional socio-economic transformation, an approach called place-making innovation. GFCC member Aston University has been a key actor driving
6 days ago3 min read


When Universities Collaborate to Expand Their Impact
Discover a GFCC-Catalysed Partnership Model that is Driving Real Impact
Jan 223 min read


Tax Incentives and New Industries Drive Economic Growth in Bulgaria
The city of Plovdiv has attracted tourists after Bulgaria entered the EU. Credit: Unsplash Bulgaria's competitiveness landscape has undergone a significant transformation recently. A member of NATO since 2004 and part of the European Union since 2007, for the past two decades the country has enjoyed a stable economy, participation in international markets, and a boom in Foreign Direct Investments. Next year, the GFCC will hold its Global Innovation Summit in Sofia, Bulgaria,
Dec 3, 20253 min read


How AI is Reshaping Economies and Societies Across Sectors: 3 Key Takeaways from "Forging the Future”
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming global economies, driving innovation across industries and redefining how societies work, connect, and deliver healthcare. According to recent data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), around 60% of jobs in advanced economies are exposed to the effects of AI , a trend that will most likely affect high-skilled professionals and reshape the labor market. In healthcare, the rise of generative AI is accelerating drug
Nov 14, 20253 min read


Making Natural Resources More Productive and Sustainable: Key Ideas from the Webinar
Natural resources are the backbone of everyday life and a vital supply for industries worldwide. From energy and manufacturing to technology and agriculture, these critical assets shape global competitiveness strategies and policies.
Sep 4, 20253 min read


Pittsburgh’s Transformation Into a Hub of Health Innovation
The city of Pittsburgh, once known for its steel mills and infrastructure manufacturing sites, has now emerged as a global hub for health innovation. Located in the Middle Atlantic region of the United States, Pittsburgh has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades.
Sep 1, 20253 min read


How Critical Minerals are Powering the Next Frontier of the Global Economy
Critical minerals, such as copper, cobalt, lithium and other rare earth elements, have come to play a central role in competitiveness strategies as the global push for clean energy and decarbonization drives societies to new economic models.
Jul 21, 20252 min read


The Reason Why Every Innovator is Going to Lisbon
In recent years, Lisbon has emerged as a leading example of urban transformation powered by innovation, collaboration, and forward-thinking governance.
May 28, 20255 min read


Engineering Resilience: How Smart Infrastructure Tackles Extreme Weather
Changes in the Earth's climate are pushing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events to a new high. This unprecedented scenario is already testing the resilience of existing physical infrastructure and driving organizations, governments, and businesses to look for technologies and solutions that reduce the effects of extreme weather events and facilitate recovery when floods, heatwaves, heavy rains, cyclones, droughts, and wildfires occur.
Apr 15, 20254 min read


Building Cyber Resilience Through a Business-Centric Approach
Cyberinfrastructure is reshaping daily life as societies transition to digitized economies that merge the cyber and physical domains.
Mar 26, 20254 min read


'Bridging the green technology gap is the most important step we can take', argues Dr. Hippolyte Fofack
In an interview with the GFCC, Dr. Fofack stresses the urgent need for sustainable economic models and bridging the green technology gap.
Mar 26, 20255 min read


New Institute at Aston University Develops Solutions to Societal Challenges Building on Strategic Partnerships
Not too long ago, universities were called ivory towers. An expression used to refer to the pursuit of research detached from everyday life that ended up buried in academic publications read only by a select few. Nowadays, universities must demonstrate their value by translating academic endeavors into real-world applications.
Mar 3, 20252 min read
bottom of page



