Understanding the Central Denmark EU Office (CDEU)
Central Denmark EU Office (CDEU) is the entire Midtjylland office in the EU, owned by Region Midtjylland, the 19 municipalities in the region, Aarhus University, and VIA University College. This office works every day to ensure that its partners gain as much value as possible from European cooperation. Often, the complexities of the EU system can seem heavy and difficult to approach… yet CDEU cuts through the red tape by focusing on the specific elements of European policies that matter most to its stakeholders. It takes the intricate EU framework and makes it relevant and engaging, ensuring that every detail counts.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
The overall benefits of the CDEU approach are best captured in a few critical points. Key figures include:
- 16 permanent employees dedicated to EU activities
- 13 employees stationed in Brussels, where much of the EU policy work takes place
- 3 employees based right in Midtjylland to keep the local connection strong
- A strong network backed by significant regional and educational institutions
- An emphasis on translating complicated EU systems into clear, tangible value for partners
Our Operations and Workflow
At CDEU the focus is on smooth navigations through the EU’s sometimes labyrinthine structures. The office takes the specific elements that are particularly relevant to its stakeholders and communicates them in a way that makes the value absolutely clear. There is a dynamic interplay between careful analysis and a straightforward explanation of European policies – a mix that offers clarity and confidence even when dealing with complex subjects. This approach may seem simple at first glance, but it is the result of continuous dedication and deep understanding of both local needs and European ambitions.
Latest News & Project Cases
Recent examples of CDEU’s work include several impressive cases which underscore its broad range of activities and strategic impacts. Notably, Lemvig Municipality will combat loneliness among the elderly, having received 480,000 DKK in EU support to learn from a Dutch partner on a new collaboration project. There is also a short video series titled “What is CDEU?” that provides insights into the operations at the office. Other project examples cover:
- Health: Emphasizing better solutions that benefit society as a whole
- Culture: Showcasing Midtjylland culture in an international perspective
- Research and Education: Pushing increased internationalization to the forefront
- Green Transition and Bioeconomy: Creating sustainable solutions through collaborative projects
- IFACILITATOR: Offering business courses tailored for Midtjylland companies
Diverse Sectors at Play
The CDEU does not limit its work to one sector. Instead, it covers a vast array of areas that include health, culture, research, education, green technology, and business development. Each of these sectors is driven by initiatives designed to both support current needs and anticipate future challenges. For instance, in the case of circular economy practices like the “Circular Economy Beyond Waste” project, the focus is on supporting a transition that benefits the entire country. With projects such as DIGI-LINGO and BANG (Bridging All Next Generations), the emphasis is on creating opportunities that empower individuals—be they young people ready to tackle social, political, and environmental challenges, or entrepreneurs learning how to inspire others in Brussels.
Collaboration in a Changing Landscape
Collaboration is at the heart of the CDEU strategy. The office continuously builds bridges between local stakeholders and the broader EU policy agenda. A prime example can be seen in the Coast 2 Coast Climate Challenge – a daring climate project that not only highlights the ambition of Midtjylland but also unites efforts across borders. Equally noteworthy is the Everywhere International SMEs project, which steps up to assist European SMEs in overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in a competitive environment. Through these varied initiatives, CDEU demonstrates how practical cooperation can yield meaningful results in a rapidly changing landscape.
Project Impact and SDG Alignment
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – evident in the health sector projects
- SDG 4: Quality Education – promoted through internationalization and educational collaboration
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – supported by innovative projects like IFACILITATOR and breakthrough business collaborations
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – reinforced by local projects aiming to improve quality of life
- SDG 13: Climate Action – clear in initiatives such as the Coast 2 Coast Climate Challenge
Future Directions and Collaboration
The ongoing work at Central Denmark EU Office offers a glimpse into a future where European cooperation is not an abstract concept but a practical, everyday tool. By aligning efforts in health, culture, education, and sustainable innovation, the office proves that diverse sectors can work together seamlessly. Casual yet purposeful, the narrative coming out of CDEU is one of continuous evolution, open dialogue, and a commitment to serving regional needs with a European perspective. Through dynamic projects and collaborative strategies, the office not only navigates current challenges but also sets the stage for a more integrated and forward-thinking future. This fresh approach enables local leaders to engage with international policies in a way that feels both accessible and profoundly impactful…
