3 April, 2025  

XS-ABILITY at the European Robotics Forum 2025

From March 25 to 27, XS-ABILITY had the privilege of being represented at the European Robotics Forum 2025 (ERF2025) in Stuttgart, Germany, through our partner IFE. This annual event, a cornerstone for Europe’s robotics and AI community, brought together over 1,500 researchers, engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders under the theme:
“Boosting the Synergies between Robotics and AI for a Stronger Europe.”

Why ERF2025 mattered for XS-ABILITY

As an initiative dedicated to harnessing AI and robotics for accessibility, our participation in ERF2025 was an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge advancements that align with our mission. The event featured:

  • More than 50 workshops and keynotes, highlighting the latest breakthroughs in AI-powered robotics.
  • The KIRO (AI-based Robotics 2025) conference, supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs (BMWK) and the Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), highlighting AI’s transformative role in robotics.
  • An extensive exhibition, displaying innovative robotic solutions designed to address real world challenges.
  • Site visits to top research centers, offering first-hand insights into pioneering developments in AI-driven robotics.
  • B2B matchmaking & networking, fostering collaboration with leading institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes, Cyber Valley, and the University of Stuttgart.

AI & Robotics for a more inclusive society

At XS-ABILITY, we believe that the fusion of robotics and AI holds immense potential for improving accessibility and inclusion. Engaging with experts at ERF2025 reinforced our commitment to leveraging technology to break barriers and ensure that people of all abilities can benefit from AI-driven solutions.

Beyond the technical advancements, ERF2025 provided a unique space to discuss the social impact of robotics, emphasizing ethical AI and human-centered design to create more inclusive and equitable technologies.

Looking Ahead

We’re excited about the partnerships, insights, and inspiration gained at ERF2025 and look forward to integrating these advancements into XS-ABILITY’s future developments. Events like ERF2025 serve as crucial platforms for driving innovation, collaboration, and progress, ensuring that AI and robotics continue to evolve for the benefit of all.

14 March, 2025  

Europe makes progress in nuclear safety: experts meet in Marcoule to innovate in decommissioning

Today, specialists from all over Europe are meeting in Marcoule, invited by CEA Marcoule, to work on the project XS-ABILITY, funded by the Horizon Europe EURATOM program. This project seeks to develop new ways to make the decommissioning of nuclear facilities safer, more efficient and more sustainable.

They are currently developing robots designed to assist in the testing phase of the project. These robots can make the work of dismantling nuclear facilities safer for people and more efficient. The demonstration in Marcoule will allow them to be tested before being used in real situations.

The XS-ABILITY project brings together entities from France, Spain, Norway, Finland, Belgium, Italy and Switzerland, reflecting an international approach to tackling this challenge.

Spain has a key role in this project thanks to the DEVELOPIA FOUNDATION, which not only participates in its development, but is also responsible for communicating its progress and achievements. Its work is essential for the solutions developed to reach experts, policy makers and society in general. Developia’s participation demonstrates Spain’s commitment to research and development of new technologies for nuclear decommissioning.

Today’s visit and the discussions in Marcoule represent a major step towards safer and smarter nuclear decommissioning, contributing to a more sustainable future.

For more information on XS-ABILITY, visit: www.xs-ability.eu

24 February, 2025  

Breaking the Cycle: a legacy of youth inclusion and empowerment

Early school leaving is one of the main barriers to the future of young people, especially those in vulnerable situations. The lack of opportunities and adequate support can perpetuate cycles of exclusion, limiting the personal and professional development of thousands of young people across Europe. Aware of this reality, at Developia we have promoted Breaking the Cycle, an innovative project that has demonstrated how education, support and creativity can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

As the Breaking the Cycle project draws to a close, we reflect on the impact of this transformative initiative, designed to foster youth participation, European citizenship and the inclusion of those at risk of exclusion. With an innovative learner-centered approach, this project has provided key skills and confidence to participants, empowering them to take charge of their future.

Following our inspiring youth exchange in Malmö, Breaking the Cycle activities were replicated in each partner country, expanding their impact and promoting local debates on education, inclusion and youth empowerment. One of these key meetings took place on December 14, 2024, at the Asociación Cultural Grío in Córdoba, where young people from low-income backgrounds, at risk of dropping out of school prematurely, discovered the educational resources and mentoring opportunities available on our platform.

The event in Córdoba combined dynamic and educational activities that encouraged collaboration, creativity and personal development. Among them, participants took on an original construction challenge using spaghetti, tape and marshmallows, promoting teamwork and problem solving. They also had the opportunity to hear the inspiring story of Arturo, a breakdancer and activist, who shared how passion and perseverance can help overcome difficulties. They also created a gratitude tree, fostering a positive mindset, and recorded a podcast on emotional intelligence and youth aspirations.

One of the most exciting moments of the event was the practice of the flash mob choreography created in Malmö, later recreated in Zaragoza by the project’s educators. Through movement and self-expression, the young people spread the message of Breaking the Cycle, ensuring that their energy and spirit would inspire many more people.

Alongside these face-to-face events, the Breaking the Cycle online training platform has made a significant impact, with 1,825 young people registered, 26 courses completed and 60 final tests successfully passed. This resource has been key in providing participants with social and technical skills in areas such as financial education, entrepreneurship and sustainability.

The project came to a close at the University of Zaragoza, where we met with students from the Faculty of Education to discuss the crucial role of initiatives such as Breaking the Cycle in the fight against educational exclusion. As future teachers, these students will play an essential role in guaranteeing access to education and youth empowerment, demonstrating that breaking the cycles of disadvantage begins with knowledge, support and opportunities.

Although Breaking the Cycle is coming to an end, its legacy will live on in each young person who has participated, in each educator who has been inspired and in each community that has been impacted. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey towards a more inclusive and hopeful future!

2 December, 2024  

Training day for the promotion and management of rural houses and tourist accommodation.

On May 21, a training session was organized for rural tourism sector managers in the Comarca de Calatayud, focusing on providing key strategies for the effective promotion and management of rural houses and tourist accommodations.

During the training, various topics were addressed, emphasizing the application of marketing strategies through the creation of personalized experiences. Among the digital strategies discussed were the use of booking platforms and social media to create valuable content through attractive images, enabling businesses to improve their positioning and strengthen connections with their guests. Additionally, the importance of reviews and online presence was highlighted as key elements to increase bookings and enhance the reputation of accommodations.

Another topic covered was the fundamental role of customer service throughout all stages of the tourist experience, from the first contact to follow-up after the stay. Details such as “welcome packs” and welcome letters were presented as tools to build customer loyalty and exceed expectations.

The session also underscored the importance of implementing sustainable actions, such as resource conservation, the use of renewable energies, and the adoption of other eco-friendly measures. These not only enhance the positioning of accommodations in the eyes of a more conscious tourism market but also increase the profitability of the businesses.

The event was notable for the interaction between participants and speakers, who shared experiences and concerns with their peers in the industry. This enriching exchange fostered networking in an atmosphere of collaborative learning, strengthening relationships and cohesion within the rural tourism community.

This initiative highlights the sector’s commitment to the economic development of the Comarca de Calatayud, promoting a model of sustainable, high-quality tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.

#TourismTraining #SustainableRuralTourism #CharmingRuralHouses #MarketingStrategies #Networking

14 November, 2024  

Breaking the Cycle: Empowering young people to overcome early school leaving

Early school leaving is a multifaceted problem with significant and long-lasting consequences. It deprives young people of their potential, restricts their future opportunities and impedes societal progress. Students who leave school early face greater challenges, such as unemployment, poverty and the risk of criminal activity. This phenomenon impacts not only the individuals involved, but also society as a whole, increasing pressure on public resources and reducing economic productivity.

The Breaking the Cycle project is a comprehensive initiative designed to address the root causes of early school leaving, such as poverty, family instability and academic difficulties. The goal is to create a supportive learning environment that empowers young people to stay in school and reach their full potential through strategies such as early intervention, mentoring and academic support. The project provides the resources necessary for students to succeed. Breaking the cycle of dropping out of school is an investment in the future of our youth and in a stronger, more equitable society.

As part of this mission, the Breaking the Cycle project offers young people digital skills and fosters cultural exchange. In a recent initiative in Malmö, Sweden, young people from Spain, Greece and Sweden learned tools such as Canva and podcasting techniques, enabling them to express themselves creatively and effectively. Inspired by the story of a young Colombian dancer who overcame poverty and violence, participants reflected on the importance of a second chance and reinforced their interest in completing their studies. The experience culminated in the creation of a flash mob which they performed in Copenhagen.

By immersing themselves in a new culture and engaging with local communities, participants developed a global perspective and intercultural communication skills. This holistic approach empowers young people to become active and engaged citizens in the 21st century.

13 May, 2024  

SCALE UP – THE FINAL EVENT IN MILAN

SCALE UP is a project whose goal is to help young students and graduates develop useful skills to improve their employability. During the 18 months of the project, the partners investigated the most sought-after skills and created online training activities and handbooks to share with their target group. The partners identified four skills: critical thinking, emotional intelligence, leadership, and digital skills.

On April 29, 2024, the partners organized an in-person training event with 28 young people. The goal of the event was to organize activities and games that could help the participants develop one of the four skills. After an initial ice-breaking activity and a presentation by Vicente Ferrero, the participants were divided into four groups, each one focused on one of the skills. One member from each partner led the activity corresponding to the module they had previously drafted.

The activities ranged from games developed to increase critical thinking skills to debates. For example, the activity developed by Developia concerned emotional intelligence, defined as “the ability to perceive, interpret, demonstrate, control, evaluate, and use emotions to communicate with and relate to others effectively and constructively” (Cherry, 2023). Naomi Nervo, the project manager responsible for SCALE UP, organized two activities to train emotional intelligence: first, the participants took part in a debate about greenwashing; then, they played a game where each person had to address the others depending on a label that only the others could see.

The common goal was to present the participants with interactive and fun ways to improve their interpersonal skills. The four skills — critical thinking, emotional intelligence, leadership, and digital skills — are not only useful for their professional lives, but also in their personal lives.

After the event, the partners took part in a meeting to discuss the future steps of the project and decide what needed to be done to end the project on time and achieve the established goals. The meeting was an occasion to create a strategy for the next two months to achieve the established goals of the project before its conclusion.

Overall, the final event and the following partners meeting signaled the final moments of a project that worked towards the enhanced of employability opportunities for young people. 

13 May, 2024  

Community and sustainability in the rural world: Craft workshop

During the last few weeks, we have given creativity workshops with the inhabitants of three rural villages in the Comarca of Calatayud (Jaraba, Ibdes and Munégreba).

In collaboration with the local community, puppets have been created with flowerpots, fusing traditional craftsmanship with environmental innovation. These works are not only an expression of art, but also a statement of commitment to sustainability.

These dolls will now adorn the homes of neighbours, which as well as beautifying the village, are symbols of togetherness and belonging, reminding us of the importance of building a strong and united community.

We are deeply grateful for the great participation and success of these workshops and together, we are sowing seeds of change and cultivating a brighter and more sustainable future for our beloved rural areas.

10 April, 2024  

New collaboration for the XS-Ability project

The Developia Foundation is thrilled to announce the new collaboration for the XS-Ability project. The project will be led by COMMISSARIAT A L’ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ÉNERGIES. This innovative initiative is set to revolutionize the field of Dismantling & Decommissioning (D&D) with its cutting-edge robotic solutions, integrating a diverse range of sensors to address key challenges in the industry.

The XS-Ability project is poised to redefine the landscape of nuclear decommissioning focusing on precision, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Bringing together a consortium of 8 partners spanning 7 EU countries, the project boasts a unique blend of expertise in nuclear instrumentation, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Anticipated to achieve eight Key Exploitable Results (KERs) at Technology Readiness Level 7 by 2027, the XS-Ability project is set to deliver a series of groundbreaking advancements. These include the development of an all-encompassing system equipped with state-of-the-art 3D radiological mapping, the implementation of data-driven management systems for robot fleets, and the creation of indoor unmanned vehicles featuring pinpoint localization, autonomous navigation, and advanced vision capabilities.

Moreover, the project aims to design resilient radiological measurement sensors, deploy AI-driven real-time decision-making algorithms tailored for D&D scenarios, enhance our understanding of robotic behavior in indoor environments, and establish comprehensive guidelines for data collection protocols and best practices.

With its ambitious goals and transformative potential, the XS-Ability project is poised to set a new standard for excellence in the field of nuclear decommissioning.

Stay tuned for more updates as this groundbreaking initiative unfolds!

29 February, 2024  

Attention to all those interested in Sustainable Tourism and Entrepreneurship!

On Thursday 8 February DEVELOPIA FOUNDATION organised a dynamic panel discussion on the European project YOU SMILE (KA220 – Youth) with the aim of promoting entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism. The event brought together diverse participants committed to driving change in the tourism landscape.

The event began with an overview of the general objectives of the project and the plan for group discussions. The session was interactive and designed to help individuals, educators and organisations seeking to create micro and small enterprises in rural tourism services.

A highlight of the initiative is the development of an e-course, which incorporates instructional videos, TikTok content and informative podcasts. This comprehensive resource covers essential topics such as sustainable tourism practices, effective financial management and the principles of green entrepreneurship in rural areas.

The meeting was attended by experts representing the public and private sectors of the tourism industry, together with students interested in sustainable tourism. All actively participated in discussions, shared ideas and knowledge, fostering a spirit of collaboration for innovation and progress.

In addition, the YOU SMILE project focuses on educating about sustainable practices, finance and entrepreneurship, especially in the rural tourism sectors. By equipping young people with employability skills and entrepreneurial opportunities, the initiative aims to combat youth unemployment rates and cultivate a new generation of socially responsible entrepreneurs.

As the project progresses, the next phase will involve the development of a training plan based on identified needs and designed to meet specific requirements, bringing the initiative closer to its overall objectives of fostering entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism and driving positive socio-economic change.

On Thursday 8 February DEVELOPIA FOUNDATION organised a dynamic panel discussion on the European project YOU SMILE (KA220 – Youth) with the aim of promoting entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism. The event brought together diverse participants committed to driving change in the tourism landscape.

The event began with an overview of the general objectives of the project and the plan for group discussions. The session was interactive and designed to help individuals, educators and organisations seeking to create micro and small enterprises in rural tourism services.

A highlight of the initiative is the development of an e-course, which incorporates instructional videos, TikTok content and informative podcasts. This comprehensive resource covers essential topics such as sustainable tourism practices, effective financial management and the principles of green entrepreneurship in rural areas.

The meeting was attended by experts representing the public and private sectors of the tourism industry, together with students interested in sustainable tourism. All actively participated in discussions, shared ideas and knowledge, fostering a spirit of collaboration for innovation and progress.

In addition, the YOU SMILE project focuses on educating about sustainable practices, finance and entrepreneurship, especially in the rural tourism sectors. By equipping young people with employability skills and entrepreneurial opportunities, the initiative aims to combat youth unemployment rates and cultivate a new generation of socially responsible entrepreneurs.

As the project progresses, the next phase will involve the development of a training plan based on identified needs and designed to meet specific requirements, bringing the initiative closer to its overall objectives of fostering entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism and driving positive socio-economic change.

12 January, 2024  

New Venture focused on Wine Tourism

We are happy to introduce you to the EST project!

The EST project aims to connect different places for wine tourism and culture across borders, showing how it is done for EU countries. Its goal is to help local businesses, especially small ones, and bring new tech ideas to tourism and culture.

There will be four museums in Spain and France that work together through QR codes, using cool ideas like a special route to show the interesting history of wine. Doing activities, teaming up with others, and getting help from tech companies will help build the things the project has planned.

In pursuing these goals, it is expected that by the end of the project, results include creating museums to show project results and cultural ties, setting up a cross-border network for local economies and digital innovation, involving communities in events and activities, and completing planned infrastructure work with help from digital companies. These achievements aim to support sustainable tourism, boost local economies, and celebrate the rich cultural history of wine in the project regions.

In summary, the EST Project aims to connect wine regions across borders, setting an example for EU countries. It strives to support local businesses, especially small ones, and introduce tech innovations to tourism and culture. Four museums in Spain and France will collaborate through QR codes, using creative ideas like a special route to showcase the fascinating history of wine. Through activities, partnerships, and support from tech companies, the project aims to bring its plans to life, promoting sustainable tourism, boosting local economies, and celebrating the cultural heritage of wine in the regions.

More information on this new project will be published very soon!