Department of EU Studies is the education hub in European Studies in the Aegean Region which consists of 14 universities. It is the only one offering graduate studies including PhD, Jean Monnet Chair in European economic integration, the hosting of European Documentation Centre, and the coordination of two JM Modules. The proposed project will develop already accumulated capacity and offer specialized approach by focusing on the EU economic studies, in line with the Chair. This approach is significant regarding the strong agricultural and industrial base of the region. The project is expected to promote not only an academic network between the universities in the region but also a network between them and civil society, specifically business NGOs, women entrepreneurs, and labour unions through joint workshops. The excellence in teaching, research and reflection will be stimulated through weekend schools, graduate seminars, lecture series and trainings. The events will take place in different cities, in colloboration with different universities, providing learning opportunities to the students and civil society who has less access to such platforms.