Profile of the month September: Michal Hladký

From architecture to creative ecosystem leadership

After studying architecture, Michal Hladký became involved in the European Capital of Culture initiative just before graduating. He contributed to the initial phase of preparing Košice’s successful bid for European Capital of Culture 2013, shaping the core concept of the bid book.

Since then, Michal Hladký has held a range of roles, from managing investment projects and organizing architecture competitions to overseeing CCI development programmes and international networking activities. He later became director of the organisation responsible for the ECoC legacy, now known as Creative Industry Košice.

“My expertise lies in leading and implementing strategic projects, particularly in CCI development, cross-sector collaboration, education, and business modelling,” he explains.
He also represents Košice in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and serves as interim director for an emerging co-location centre within EIT Culture & Creativity.

Košice as a dynamic cultural and technological hub

Since being named European Capital of Culture in 2013, Košice has evolved into a dynamic centre for culture, creativity, and technology. The revitalisation of key infrastructures such as Kasárne/Kulturpark has energised the local arts scene and attracted international artists, designers, and entrepreneurs.

“At the same time, Košice has established itself as a significant IT hub, with initiatives like IT Valley Košice supporting a strong tech ecosystem and attracting global companies and startups,” Michal Hladký explains.

Košice’s membership in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Media Arts has further strengthened its international profile and enabled new collaborations.

“Today, Košice stands as a model for how cultural initiatives can drive sustainable urban development, economic growth, and improved quality of life.”

Art & technology as drivers of innovation

One of the city’s flagship events highlighting the fusion of creativity and technology is the annual Art & Tech Days festival, held every November.

“A key highlight is the top-level conference on November 21st, where thought leaders in art, architecture, technology, and media discuss future directions under the theme Periphery,” says Michal Hladký.

Boosting regional futures through EIT Culture & Creativity

EIT Culture & Creativity is the ninth Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC) launched by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). Its regional hub CLC East in Košice focuses on strengthening cultural, creative, and innovation ecosystems in Central and Eastern Europe.

“This community integrates stakeholders from education, research, innovation, business, and culture across more than 30 countries and all 15 CCSI sectors, creating new opportunities and connections,” Michal Hladký explains.

He emphasises the collective power of collaboration:

“EIT Culture & Creativity empowers ecosystems to turn innovation into societal impact achieving what no single actor can do alone.”

Unlocking regional potential through collaboration

The aim of the Co-Location Centres is to nurture regional potential by enabling collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and borders, while leveraging European networks and markets.

“CLC East is dedicated to enhancing wellbeing through innovative approaches in architecture and design, with a strong focus on sustainable and resilient urban development,” says Michal Hladký.

Through tailored support, training, access to markets, and opportunities for funding, these centres help creators, organisations, and cities scale their impact locally and internationally.