The aim of this conference is to gather experts, academics and members of the Committee of the Regions (CoR) and the European Parliament (EP) to jointly discuss the future of universities in Europe and their involvement in bringing about the "Stairway to Excellence" at local and regional level. Participants from the Committee of the Regions' SEDEC commission, the European institutions, together with renowned academics (Jean Monet Chairs and leaders of university/ research associations), will be take part in the discussion.Apart from fostering a much needed debate about the role of European universities in closing the 'innovation divide' at both national and regional level, this event would also like to showcase some good practices and provide an opportunity to network between key players and stakeholders. This conference will equally serve as a follow-up to a recent Latvian Presidency event, Week of Innovative Regions in Europe (WIRE), in which the CoR has been involved.