Ilona Vanaga, Ph.D., is a Project Manager at Baltic Photonics (Latvia) with over 12 years of experience in international R&D project management. Working at the intersection of photonics, semiconductors, and defence technologies, she focuses on the advanced hardware capabilities that enable immersive technologies and spatial computing to scale across high-stakes industries. Ilona is an expert in bridging complex disciplines and fostering pan-European partnerships. She has extensive experience building cross-border consortia and managing projects funded through the European Defence Fund, Horizon Europe, EUREKA, and national programmes. For this panel, she brings a critical perspective on how integrating European hardware and software pillars drives sustainable growth, proves ROI, and accelerates the adoption of XR solutions in the global market.