Community Hub

Plug in for inspiration. Unplug for conversation.

This year we offer two session types, as well as the comeback of the Opportunity Corner!

The Call for Proposals for the Community Hub is now open until 10 March. Review the guidelines to get your idea ready.

Plugged-in sessions
Step into the world of screens and live demonstrations. Plugged-in sessions spotlight tools, projects and innovations shaping research and education networks, backed by engaging presentations. It’s where ideas come to life - watch, learn and be inspired.

Unplugged sessions

Step away from screens and into conversation. Unplugged sessions rely on direct engagement, storytelling or collaborative exercises instead of presentation slides.
They can take the form of regional meet-ups, group discussions, or idea exchanges aimed at sparking creativity and conversation.

Read about the recommended formats below.

Opportunity corner
A bulletin board to leave a project brochure, a flyer, or a post-it with an idea or a question. You’ll just need one copy as we encourage participants to take photos instead.

Unplugged Sessions Recommended Formats

1.
Meet & Connect corners

Where communities find each other.
A welcoming space for meet-ups, newcomer introductions, or topic-based conversations. Whether you want to highlight a regional initiative, bring visibility to a project, or host a thematic meet-up (AI, cybersecurity, sustainability, etc.), this is the place to gather and meet with the community.

2.
Collaborative Creation Circles

Building the future together.
Interactive, hands-on sessions where participants co-create: future timelines, shared maps of challenges and opportunities, design exercises, or other creative group activities that rely on physical materials rather than screens.

3.
Ask an Expert Exchanges

Personal conversations, tailored insights.
Short, focused exchanges where participants connect with experts, developers, or practitioners for one-on-one or small-group discussions. Perfect for Q&A, matchmaking, practical advice, or “Meet the Developers” conversations.

4.
Storytelling & Campfire Gatherings

Share a story. Spark a conversation.
A relaxed, screen-free storytelling environment where community members share personal experiences, project journeys, behind-the-scenes insights, or “how we did it” stories – followed by group reflection and discussion.

Important to know

The Community Hub has its own dedicated space in TNC26’s main venue, Helsinki Music Hall. The sessions will take place in the Lower Foyer, on the 1st floor of the venue. It can be accessed through the main lobby on the 3rd floor via the lift or stairs.

The space is informal, dynamic and open to all, therefore background noise is to be expected.

Basic AV equipment (screen and projector, microphone, but no VC equipment) will be provided.

Remote sessions will not be accepted. Presenters will have to be physically present at the TNC26 venue.

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