© SAMS
With a fund of €5.7 million, the call for proposals seeks to support regional flagship projects developing the sustainable blue economy in EU sea basins, particularly for projects focussing on regenerative farming and innovations in algae cultivation and processing.
Whilst still in the early stages of development, the EU blue economy is poised for growth over the coming years, driven by the transition to a sustainable and circular economy, the ambitious net-zero climate targets and a focus on innovation and research.
The funding call covers two key project topics:
1. Maritime regional cooperation fostering Smart Specialisation and Innovation in the Sustainable Blue Economy
Projects under this brief will carry out activities to set up and strengthen strategic interregional partnerships that develop and implement highly innovative solutions addressing priorities in the EU sustainable blue economy.
Suitable projects could focus on fisheries, aquaculture, marine renewable energy, blue biotechnology, or coastal and maritime tourism.
2. Demonstrating feasibility and environmental benefits of regenerative ocean farming and boosting algae innovation
This topic aims to prove the feasibility and viability of setting up and operating ocean farms across various EU marine regions. Projects should measure and quantify environmental benefits of regenerative farming of either local seaweed species or seaweed in combination with shellfish and spur algae innovation by supporting its development and bringing to market new algae-based products and services.
The fund is open for applications until 18 February 2025.
