The FITT-NESS project is making progress in Milan on digitalisation and sustainability in the housing sector

The main objective of the European FITT-NESS project (Fostering Innovation & the Twin Transition for iNclusive EnvironmentS and Smart homes) is to improve the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises in the furniture and home furnishings sector. Through the so-called ‘twin transition’ (digital and green), the project seeks to drive the development of innovative solutions for creating smart homes and inclusive environments that improve citizens’ quality of life, particularly for older people or those with specific accessibility needs.

As part of this initiative, the consortium partners, including CETEM, travelled to Milan to hold the third Transnational Project Meeting. This meeting proved crucial for assessing the progress of the various work packages and planning the technical validation phases for the results obtained to date.

The first working session took place at the FederlegnoArredo (FLA) premises, where members reviewed the project’s progress in terms of quality and risk management. Among the highlights of the agenda were the presentation of the current results of the sector’s needs assessment and the progress of the S3 roadmaps. The meeting also addressed upcoming training initiatives aimed at professional development and the status of business advisory services. The day concluded with an institutional visit to the Museum of Italian Design at the Triennale di Milano.

The second day of the meeting focused on the practical aspects of the project, with a working session at OpenDot, a foundation dedicated to open research and innovation.

As part of this interregional cooperation initiative, the consortium’s next meeting will be held in Yecla at the end of May 2026. This event will coincide with the Yecla Furniture Fair, where a new Twinning Action will take place. This event will enable participating companies from Spain, Portugal and Italy to exchange experiences, generate synergies and gain first-hand insight into the potential of the furniture cluster in the Region of Murcia.

Find out more about the initiative on theCETEM website or on the project website.