This document summarizes three projects: 1) ICT & ART Connect, which created a map of ICT and arts institutions in Europe and made recommendations to engage artists in innovation; 2) CODEC, a project testing an open innovation framework through six cultural heritage institution pilots; 3) SPECIFI and the Creative Ring, which combined future internet infrastructures and creative industries to establish a European Creative Ring of Smart Cities and Regions through demonstrators. The presenter discusses tangible impacts of these projects including new programs, policies, communities and applications.