Implementing co-funded action plans for connected regional innovation valleys

Overview

Funding for consortia of regional innovation ecosystems to implement joint action plans that strengthen cross-border collaboration in circular economy and digital transition. Targets regions designated as "Innovation Valleys" under the EU’s Regional Innovation Valleys initiative.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of at least three legal entities from three different EU Member States or Horizon Europe-associated countries, including:

• Regional or local public authorities
• Innovation agencies
• Research and technology organizations
• Higher education institutions
• SMEs and industry associations
• Non-profit organizations

At least one partner must be from a region formally recognized as an EU "Innovation Valley."

Funding Details

• Total budget: EUR 50 million
• Grant amount per project: EUR 2–5 million
• Funding rate: Up to 70% of eligible costs for public bodies and non-profit organizations; up to 50% for private for-profit entities
• Co-funding: Mandatory; remaining costs must be covered by applicants or other sources

What Is Funded

Projects must align with one or more of the following focus areas:

• Circular economy and resource efficiency (e.g., waste reduction, recycling, sustainable materials)
• Digital transition (e.g., smart manufacturing, AI for sustainability, data-driven innovation)
• Cross-regional collaboration to scale innovative solutions
• Capacity-building for regional innovation ecosystems

Supported activities include pilot demonstrations, knowledge transfer, policy experimentation, and joint investment planning.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Projects must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5–8 at the time of application.
• Proposals should include a clear pathway for scaling solutions beyond the project duration.

Key Dates

• Call opens: 2025-12-21
• Application deadline: 2026-03-15

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Proposals must include a detailed joint action plan, budget, and letters of commitment from all partners.

Post-Award Obligations

• Regular progress reporting (annual and final reports).
• Dissemination of project results, including public events and policy recommendations.
• Participation in EU-wide networking activities for Innovation Valleys.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States and Horizon Europe-associated countries.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must demonstrate measurable impact on regional innovation capacity and cross-border collaboration.
• Preference given to proposals that include regions with lower innovation performance.
• Overhead costs are limited to 25% of direct eligible costs.