REF21 Boosts Economic Networking in Côte-d'Or Amid National Strategy Controversies

The REF21 event held in Côte-d'Or recently emerged as a pivotal moment for economic networking and collaboration in the region, drawing over 300 participants including local business leaders and entrepreneurs. Organized by MEDEF, this gathering featured 13 workshops and round tables with 35 speakers and was supported by six working commissions composed of volunteers dedicated to addressing major economic, social, and societal challenges. A standout plenary session focused on geopolitical balances, fostering insightful discussions on economic transformations and innovative future pathways. Dijon Bourgogne Invest lauded the event for fostering reflection and cooperation within the local economic ecosystem.

In contrast to this regional success, the national scene experienced unexpected disruption when the press conference scheduled for July 9 to unveil the first national strategy for the social and solidarity economy (SNESS), led by Serge Papin, was canceled abruptly the evening before. This strategy, the product of over a year of collaborative work, left many participants and observers surprised by the cancellation, raising concerns among social and solidarity economy actors.

REF21 played a crucial role in energizing the local economic network by encouraging new exchanges and interactions, while the silence on the national strategy has prompted calls for clarity and funding commitments. These developments highlight ongoing efforts and challenges in France’s economic development and collaboration initiatives in 2026.