We're just starting the second session of the EU-sponsored project 'Leather is my Job' here in Igualada, about an hour outside Barcelona.

This is a very symbolic place to hold this final conference, presented by Cotance and industriAll-European Trade Union, as leather is in the DNA of this region, being one of the most important cluster industries in Europe.

We heard from AITEX's Jose Manuel Ramos who spoke of a new initiative called the Worth Project, which will aim to establish 150 partnerships, mostly with SMEs, starting in September with the first phase. The project is a continuation of an initiative brought forward from the EC last year and focuses on leather as well as textiles and other industries.

Look for more updates on Leathermag.com as we conclude the session later this afternoon with a panel discussion moderated by Cotance's Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano.