GBC Connect Forum is a three-day Business-to-Government event intended to create a structured setting for dialogue between industry and public authorities on Croatia’s green transition. Organised by the Croatian Green Building Council (GBC Croatia) in partnership with the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Assets, it took place from 21 to 23 April 2026 at Amadria Park in Šibenik.3
The forum’s purpose was to bring industry representatives, specialists and public-sector decision-makers together to exchange knowledge and coordinate responses to challenges in sustainable construction, energy, urban planning and the green transition. Its programme included presentations, panels, practical workshops, round tables and networking.3 The meeting coincided with work on Croatia’s National Building Renovation Plan, and included the Ministry’s ninth Open Dialogue of Partners, a format it has run since 2018.3
Topics included implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), building renovation, decarbonisation, energy-efficiency financing, digitalisation of renovation and green skills.3 The intended audience encompassed government ministries and agencies, local and regional authorities, construction and energy companies, material and equipment manufacturers, designers, investors, developers, financial institutions, academia and professional organisations. The event page anticipated around 150 participants from Croatia and the wider region.3
GBC Croatia was founded in 2009. Its activities include promoting sustainable construction through education, networking and projects in areas such as energy efficiency, e-mobility and the circular economy; it is part of the World Green Building Council and the European network of green building councils.2