Cooperation between HCCI and HAA
In addition to the launch of a new cross-border economic cooperation initiative, the introduction of a patronage program was announced at a press conference in Sopron on 27 August. On behalf of the Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HCCI) at the organization's 175th anniversary event Elek Nagy, President of HCCI signed a cooperation agreement with Attila Turi, President of HAA. According to this a national patronage program would be launched, the aim of which is to strengthen social responsibility, connect the entrepreneurial sphere and cultural life, strengthen the creative industry, and support young artists and creators. János Kiss, Vice-President HAA also participated in the event.
"After 175 years a new chapter begins in the life of chambers of commerce" he said at the ceremonial event, which was stylishly hosted by the new pride of Sopron, the beautifully renovated Lenck Villa. Those present were greeted by Chamber President Elek Nagy, who recalled that in historical Hungary the first chamber of commerce and industry was founded in Sopron in 1850, followed immediately by Bratislava and Pest-Buda, and then the chamber system was launched throughout the country. After 175 years the goal is still the same: to strengthen the economy, help businesses, and respond to the challenges of the future.
Elek Nagy highlighted that the year 2025 would bring renewal, and also emphasized "during the Renaissance, people took centre stage, and the entrepreneurial person is at the center of the chamber's renewal. The chamber's renaissance program is not just an institutional transformation, but a change in perspective. Our goal is for Hungarian entrepreneurs to feel that the chamber is there for them, helping and supporting their opportunities. This is our vision, and this guides our every step."
Regarding the intertwining of culture and economy, Elek Nagy said: There are nearly forty-nine thousand enterprises operating in the creative and cultural industries in Hungary, which not only create jobs, but also strengthen identity and community. "Culture is not a luxury, but an economic resource. If art and creative industries cooperate with the entrepreneurial sphere, new opportunities will open up that serve both growth and social development. That is why it is important to work together with the Hungarian Academy of Arts to strengthen cultural and economic partnerships," he said.
Attila Turi, President of HAA underlined that the meeting of the economic sphere and art always creates special value in society. Through partnership artists can reach a wider audience, work with a more secure financial background and an inspiring professional environment. Cooperation is not only the meeting of two worlds, but also the building of bridges: the flow of values, thoughts and experiences between economy and culture. In his view art needs the dynamism and community life that economic life embodies.
"In 2022 we signed a cooperation agreement with the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and this spring with the Hungarian Corvin Chain Board. You could say that these are natural things, because these institutions are guided by similar thinking, we are connected by the world of art and science. But trying to help and receive help in cooperation with the economic and commercial life is not so natural. I am infinitely grateful that we were able to conclude this cooperation," said Attila Turi.
Elek Nagy highlighted that the year 2025 would bring renewal, and also emphasized "during the Renaissance, people took centre stage, and the entrepreneurial person is at the center of the chamber's renewal. The chamber's renaissance program is not just an institutional transformation, but a change in perspective. Our goal is for Hungarian entrepreneurs to feel that the chamber is there for them, helping and supporting their opportunities. This is our vision, and this guides our every step."
Regarding the intertwining of culture and economy, Elek Nagy said: There are nearly forty-nine thousand enterprises operating in the creative and cultural industries in Hungary, which not only create jobs, but also strengthen identity and community. "Culture is not a luxury, but an economic resource. If art and creative industries cooperate with the entrepreneurial sphere, new opportunities will open up that serve both growth and social development. That is why it is important to work together with the Hungarian Academy of Arts to strengthen cultural and economic partnerships," he said.
Attila Turi, President of HAA underlined that the meeting of the economic sphere and art always creates special value in society. Through partnership artists can reach a wider audience, work with a more secure financial background and an inspiring professional environment. Cooperation is not only the meeting of two worlds, but also the building of bridges: the flow of values, thoughts and experiences between economy and culture. In his view art needs the dynamism and community life that economic life embodies.
"In 2022 we signed a cooperation agreement with the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and this spring with the Hungarian Corvin Chain Board. You could say that these are natural things, because these institutions are guided by similar thinking, we are connected by the world of art and science. But trying to help and receive help in cooperation with the economic and commercial life is not so natural. I am infinitely grateful that we were able to conclude this cooperation," said Attila Turi.
August 29, 2025
