Empowering the Next Generation of Textile Innovators with Smart Textiles Education

About SmartINNO

The SmartINNO project, formally known as Advancing Knowledge & Innovation in European Smart Textiles Education, has officially launched to address the educational gaps in the fast-growing field of smart textiles. 

Officially launched in Autumn 2024 to address the educational gaps in the fast-growing field of smart textiles, SmartInno aims to identify the specific skills needed in smart textiles, bridge the knowledge gaps in educational programs, and create innovative, practical learning materials for students and teachers alike

This 12-month project, funded with a €60,000 grant under the Erasmus+ Small-scale Partnerships in Vocational Education and Training (KA210-VET), aims to revolutionise textile education by fostering knowledge transfer between industry professionals and educational institutions. 

The project, led by a consortium of top European organisations including Textile ETP , TITERA (Slovenia) and Smart-Tex Netzwerk (Germany), will create a digital platform that will provide a range of educational content from basic to advanced levels. This platform will be a valuable resource for students studying textile design, technology and manufacturing, providing them with the skills needed to succeed in smart textiles. 

SmartINNO online and in-person events

Discover SmartINNO’s programme of events designed to foster collaboration between
industry and education in the field of smart textiles.

SmartINNO Fundamentals

Lesson 1 for Beginners

This introductory lesson is made for beginners interested in the exciting world of smart textiles that they will:

  • Learn what smart textiles are and how they differ from traditional materials

  • Explore real-life applications in sectors like mobility, health, and wearables

  • Understand the basics in smart textiles

Lesson 2 for Beginners

This lesson is designed for beginners who are curious about the exciting world of smart textiles. In particular, it will focus on various subjects, including:

  • Sustainable Smart Textiles

  • Sensor & IoT Integration

  • AI-Driven Innovation

SmartINNO DeepDive

Lesson 1 for Advanced

In this advanced lesson, we explore how to successfully bring a smart textile product to market. Covering everything from early-stage design to launch strategies, this lesson offers a practical roadmap for innovators ready to take their ideas to the next level. In this lesson, you will learn:

  • How user-centred design shapes smart textile innovation

  • The essentials of certification and standardisation

  • Steps to strategically position your product on the market

Lesson 2 for Advanced

In the final lesson, we explore business and market strategies specifically designed for the smart textiles sector. As part of the SmartINNO series, this session provides valuable insights into how innovators and companies can successfully bring their products to market. In particular, it will focus on various subjects, including:

  • Market trends and needs in the smart textiles sector

  • Strategies for market entry, including B2B and B2C approaches

  • Business models tailored for smart textile innovations

  • Case studies of successful smart textile companies in the EU

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. Project Number: 2024-1-DE02-KA210-VET-000253979 KA210-VET - Small-scale partnerships in vocational education and training (KA210-VET)