Introduction

The stimulation of creative industries is one of the main pillars of the project Kosice INTERFACE 2013. For the successful implementation of the project it is crucial that the widest possible range of experts and partners in the city and the region become familiar with the topic of creative industries. Their involvement in the process will help create conditions for the functioning of the so-called creative economy and creative industries as a potential source of economic growth.

The non-profit organisation Kosice 2013, responsible for the implementation of the European Capital of Culture project, is preparing a series of events to highlight the examples of European cities which used culture and creativity as a basis for their development. It will also create a space for discussion and cooperation among the participating partners to serve as a basis for the development of new projects.

The key aims of Kosice 2013 organisation in the field of creative industries are:

• the mapping of the environment and the linking of local players in the areas of creativity and innovations, the linking of universities, the big players (like T-systems, Ness, AT&T, ...) and small and medium enterprises
• the coordination of the processes to create suitable conditions for their establishment in the market, the creation of ashared platform, the organisation of information and education events in the relevant fields
• the creation of ajoint strategy for the city and the region for the further development, and the interlinking with related areas such astourism, services...
• the support for international cooperation and experience exchange
• the support of SMEs (the establishment of an incubator)