Launch of the I3 Support Facility to strengthen Interregional Innovation Investments Ecosystems

This initiative aims to empower regional and national innovation stakeholders to build robust interregional innovation ecosystems, reinforcing the objectives of the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument.  

The I3 Support Facility will act as a cornerstone in fostering innovative projects within smart specialisation areas. By promoting cohesion, capacity-building, and integration into broader European value chains, it seeks to particularly benefit less-developed regions across the EU. 

The heart of the I3 Support Facility: The Capacity Building Hub 

At the core of the I3 Support Facility is the Capacity Building Hub, designed to accelerate the adoption of the I3 Instrument and maximise the benefits of this EU funding programme. This Hub will: 

• Facilitate collaboration, consortia building, knowledge sharing, and capacity building among stakeholders. 
• Grasp (policy) feedback from running I3 Instrument projects.
•  Align with EU and regional priorities and support public sector capacity building related to interregional investments. 
   

Tools and services for stakeholders 

The Facility offers an array of tools to support innovation stakeholders, including: 

• Technical, regulatory, and investment advice to strengthen I3 Instrument project applications. 
• A matchmaking platform to connect stakeholders and foster collaboration. 
• Workshops, training seminars, and a comprehensive handbook to share best practices and build robust business cases. 

Tracking and disseminating project outcomes 

To ensure transparency and data-driven insights, the Facility will feature the I3 Observatory, a dedicated dashboard for monitoring project progress, key trends, and outcomes. This tool will assist in evaluating and disseminating the results of I3-funded projects. The lessons learned will contribute to the ongoing evolution of regional, national, and European innovation ecosystems. 

Policy Lab: supporting regional stakeholders 

The I3 Support Facility will also host a Policy Lab designed for regional policymakers, including public authorities, ERDF managing bodies, and intermediaries. This collaborative space aims to: 

• Address challenges faced by less-developed and outermost regions. 
• Enhance institutional capacities to work closely with regional actors. 
• Develop effective policy solutions to support interregional innovation. 
• Help regions retain talent and attract investments. 

Events to build networks and drive engagement 

A series of online and physical events will promote networking and collaboration, including: 

• Monthly webinars and regional stakeholders’ workshops. 
• The Annual I3 Forum, a flagship event where beneficiaries and public authorities will share experiences and strengthen local capacities for additional I3 Instrument projects. 

This comprehensive approach reflects the EU’s dedication to fostering sustainable and inclusive innovation across all regions.