Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A Italy-Croatia

Date of latest update: 2026-01-21

Description

Description (EN):

IN4BLUE project is a capacity-building project that addresses the lack of skills of local actors: creative industry, blue economy and other connected sectors to act upon and become part of digital and green transition actions. Project focuses on micro and small enterprises from two sectors of blue economy: coastal tourism and maritime transport and their connected value-chains. The target sector is one of the most wide-spread in the program area and is one of the most affected sectors by the COIVD crisis hence these enterprises have problem finding capital for investing in digital and sustainable technologies and have limited skills in communicating new green-values to their users. To tackle this problem, the new systematic approach is proposed in which the COMMUNITY of creative actors and technology specialist in a form of SOCIAL IMPACT BUSINESS INCUBATORS are collaborating together and internationally to design and prototype new sustainable concepts and business processes for the blue economy sector, all leading to increased capacity of area to co-create and innovate. Main project strategy is to build an ecosystem that can innovate, collaborate and support multiple enterprises in their effort to engage digital and green transition. Innovation ecosystem are made from various individuals and organizations; therefore the general idea is for each PP to i) identify and bring local actors together, ii) provide tailored educations for entrepreneurs and iii) develop applicable use-cases and solution that are later taken on, developed and promoted by the project partners in capitalization phase. The main project OUTCOME is the change in perspective in which digital and green transition are not only economic activities but social as well and that ECOSYSTEM APPROACH of CO-CREATION not only leads to successful models of digital and green transformation but also significantly improves the participant skills. The innovation ecosystem approach for raising skills is not that common in the program area therefore project goal is for experienced organisations in capacity building actions (PPs) to test idea in practice, improve the concept and share knowledge with other entrepreneurial environments, thematic networks and research organisations to ensure continuous contribution to program area innovation capacities . Within IN4BLUE project the SBI concept will be put on test; the skills of the PP staff and new-entrants shall be tested at time of entering to project/program and at the project/program meassuring effectivnes of program on improving digital, green and entrepreneurial skills; and the entrepreneurial success of SME participants shall be measured to see the impact of the programs on business performance. Main project OBJECTIVE is to build and activate the cross-border systematic support of key development stakeholders for strengthening the skills and the capacities of local actors (CI, Blue economy and others) to act upon and become part of digital and green transition actions in the blue economy sector, enabling the positive synergy effects on innovativeness, resilience and sustainable competitiveness of the Adriatic Region PROJECT ORGANIZATION Project is organized in three work packages. First WP relates to upskilling preparation phase, second WP is related to execution phase and third WP relates to project result transferability. Within the project three different approaches shall be explored: SOCIAL CO-CREATION within Creative Laboratory actions, awareness raising and exchange of experiences events within IN4BLUE workshops program and INTERNSHIP INCUBATON within RESIDENCY program; targeting three different types of participants. The project will support minimum of 90 SMEs and host more than 50 events resulting in 240 participations in the upskilling actions. Project will identify minimum 60 use-cases of green/digital transition and 18 sustainable technologies or sustainable techniques applicable in the blue economy sector and will result in minimum 12 original business case models and 6 business plans developed. Project is innovative in a way that it brings the practices from the start-up ecosystem to traditional industry like the blue economy; The program is inclusive; it introduces new tools (design thinking, design sprints, hackatons) and new concepts (residency program, pitch sessions etc.) to the territory; and it contributes to shifting the method of learning from common trainings to experience exchange and learn-by-doing practice. For project outcomes the transnational support is crucial, since it combines capacity from territories of different skill levels leading to spillover effects between PPs but nad program participants; Also transnational approach ensures the participation of experienced mentors regardless of theritory promoting the multi-polar mentorship concept and international approach to other EEs and the participants of workshops programs.

Actual Achievements (EN):

LP – IDA Ltd started with project implementation in cooperation with all project partners as described in application form. Project team of LP organized Kick-off and SC meeting that was held in Pula in April 2024. Project team was set up on Kick-off meeting and main roles were assigned to employees such as their time dedicated for project activities. Also, project management structure (PMU) was established during KoM. During the KoM LP introduced to the partnership project general presentation and management: activities, deliverables, outputs, methodology – deadlines and responsibilities together with JEMS. IDA is continuously organising online meetings at project level (twice per month) through Google Meet and Zoom platform that contributes to added-value of cross-border cooperation. On June 17th IDA organised the first online meeting where all partners together with IDA presented the updates about project activities implementation. All together, 4 online meetings at project level were held in the period June-August. Additionally, common shared repository-Nextcloud was opened where all project documents are uploaded. On 13th May 2024, LP participated in a workshop organized by the MRRFEU. The workshop provided information on the eligibility of costs and reporting. Representatives of LP also reviewed the JEMS Implementation Manuals and participated in the training session for Standard Projects held on 28th June 2024. Activities carried out in this reporting period are the following, mostly related to progress of WP1. According to project timeplan, most of partners started with contribution to first deliverable: D.1.1.1 IN4Blue technology database. For this purpose, some partners engaged external expert who conducted mapping of environmentally friendly solutions/practices and finalised with detection of key stakeholders in both country. Activity of Mapping of innovative technology solutions or best practices in blue economy sector resulted in technology database that directly contributes to achievement of SO1.1. The technology database created as part of the IN4BLUE project serves as an innovative resource for advancing SO1.1, which focuses on operationalizing social impact business incubators that implement new collaboration mechanisms. This database is tailored to SMEs in the blue economy, specifically targeting coastal tourism and maritime transport sectors. The database compiles technology solutions and best practices that are directly relevant to SMEs working toward the green transition, especially within blue economy sectors that require sustainable practices for long-term impact. Mentioned database is more than a simple repository: it’s a dynamic, collaborative tool that ensures IN4BLUE partners are equipped with actionable knowledge. This allows partners to make meaningful contributions to the blue economy, especially through Output 1.2 while maximizing the impact of ERDF funds received. Moreover, this technology database is integral to the innovative IN4BLUE collaboration mechanisms, which foster partnerships between partners, enterprises and key stakeholders at cross border level. The established CB partnership and the technology database contribute significantly to the added value of cooperation by pooling resources, expertise, and networks from various regions. This collaborative approach enables partners to share insights on best practices, technological advancements, and green solutions relevant to the blue economy. In terms of CO 1.3 the CB partnership and technology database play important role by showcasing specific examples of successful digital and green transformations that becomes a practical tool for inspiring businesses and stakeholders. On 23rd July 2024, representative of Communication Managers (FVG AR), participated in the Project Communication Training, where various topics were discussed: visibility rules, project communication, project websites, from the content point of view and next steps. As the assigned Website Administrator, on 31st July 2024, PP5 participated in an online training on website administration organized by the JS of the Italy - Croatia Programme 2021 -2027. Risk Management Tool was prepared by TNO and approved on steering committee meeting. This document defines and documents the Risk Management Process for the project. It describes how risks will be identified and assessed, what tools and techniques can be used, what are the evaluation scales and tolerances, the relevant roles and responsibilities, etc. According to Communication activities all partners set up the main information about IN4BLUE project and financial support of EU on institutional website. As well, all partners exposed project poster in visible place at local premises. Additionally, LP has contracted a consultant for managing the project activities from an advisory perspective and continuously communicated with other project partners in order to ensure good quality of deliverables. Since its start in March 2024, the IN4BLUE project, led by IDA Ltd., has made significant steps towards its goal of supporting the green and digital transition of small businesses in the blue economy sector, focusing on coastal tourism and maritime transport. The project contributes directly to Specific Objective SO1.1, which aims to establish Social Impact Business Incubators (SBIs) and implement innovative collaboration mechanisms to help micro and small enterprises develop the skills needed for the green transition. IN4BLUE brings together public institutions, business support organisations, and experts from Italy and Croatia, aiming to develop innovative support services and foster cooperation across borders. Building the foundation for cooperation and innovation IN4BLUE began by setting up its project team and governance structures during the Kick-off and Steering Committee Meeting in Pula (April 2024). Since then, the partnership has been meeting regularly both online and in person (including the 2nd Project Meeting in Bari, October 2024), ensuring strong coordination and open communication among all partners. To foster collaboration and exchange of experiences, the project created a Supporter Network, which now includes 98 organisations and experts from Italy and Croatia, committed to the project’s mission and involved in shaping its activities. These interactions directly contributed to the development of Output 1.1 – a local innovation value chain structure, designed through cooperation between public and private organisations. Six project partners, two associated partners and the wider network of supporters jointly built this structure, which lays the foundation for the project’s pilot support actions in WP2. Key tools and achievements to support SMEs and the green transition IN4BLUE has delivered several important tools and resources that help local businesses and stakeholders embrace more sustainable practices: - Technology Database (completed in RP1): This practical tool gathers 93 examples of green and digital solutions applicable to the blue economy, providing inspiration and knowledge to SMEs and other stakeholders. - Competence Map (completed in RP2): By assessing the skills and competences of over 87 stakeholders, the project identified key gaps and needs, ensuring that the support services developed are well-targeted and effective. - Stakeholder Database (completed in RP2): A list of over 200 relevant actors in the blue economy and creative industries, helping the project connect with key players for future activities. These deliverables provide the strategic groundwork for the IN4BLUE Support Program (D1.2.1), currently under development. Supporting businesses through training and networking IN4BLUE partners have been actively preparing capacity-building activities: - Expert training programs were planned and scheduled for 2025, focusing on topics like design thinking, innovation for sustainability, and green entrepreneurship. - E-learning resources were identified and shared within the Supporter Network to provide flexible learning opportunities. Communicating with the wider public and raising awareness To reach businesses, local communities, and the general public, the project team created and regularly updates the official IN4BLUE website and social media channels (LinkedIn, Instagram), where all news, events, and achievements are shared. Partners also organised awareness events and interviews with local stakeholders to collect their views on the challenges and opportunities in the green transition. Added value of cross-border cooperation One of the key achievements of IN4BLUE is the establishment of a joint cross-border support framework that brings together project partners, associated partners, and external stakeholders from Italy and Croatia. Through the development of the IN4BLUE Supporter Network — which includes 98 registered members as of Period 2, including public institutions, SMEs, creative individuals, and experts — the project has laid the foundation for sustained cooperation in supporting innovation in the blue economy. By working together, partners and stakeholders co-developed shared tools and methodologies — such as stakeholder interview frameworks and training design templates — that are applicable across different regions and institutional contexts. This cooperation has added value by combining diverse experiences, perspectives, and knowledge systems, resulting in more relevant, adaptable, and transferable solutions than would have been possible through isolated, national-level efforts. By the end of the second reporting period, IN4BLUE has successfully built the collaborative infrastructure and content base needed to move forward with WP2, where pilot actions and direct SME support will be implemented. Since March 2024, IN4BLUE has been building a practical cross-border support system that helps small and micro businesses in the blue economy (coastal tourism and maritime transport) progress towards the green and digital transition. The project contributes to Specific Objective SO1.1 by developing Social Impact Business Incubators (SBIs) and shared tools for collaboration between public institutions, support organisations, SMEs, creative actors and technology providers in Italy and Croatia. The partnership has remained active and well-coordinated through regular meetings and shared planning activities. Clear communication channels and joint decision-making ensured steady progress and common understanding among all partners. Supporter Network and stakeholder engagement The Supporter Network has continued to grow, bringing together organisations, experts, entrepreneurs and local actors interested in innovation in the blue economy. This network provides space for exchanging experiences, shaping ideas and preparing upcoming pilot activities. Throughout the reporting periods, partners jointly developed: - Technology Database with practical examples of green and digital solutions, - Competence Map describing key skills needed for sustainable development in coastal economies, - Stakeholder Database identifying relevant actors in both countries. These tools provide the knowledge base and practical groundwork for the IN4BLUE Support Program (D1.2.1), which was finalized during this reporting period. The Support Program defines how SBIs and support organisations will cooperate during WP2 pilot activities. Capacity-building and peer learning activities were strengthened to prepare the partnership and Supporter Network for WP2 pilot actions. Through expert training and collaborative learning formats, partners improved their ability to support SMEs in applying sustainable and innovative practices. Project partners continued to promote the IN4BLUE initiative through the project website, social media channels, stakeholder interviews, and awareness events, ensuring visibility and engagement at the local and cross-border level. Working as a joint network enables partners to co-design methods, adapt tools to different local contexts, and share solutions that are more relevant and transferable than those developed individually. This cooperation directly supports Output 1.1 and ensures that the Support Program can be implemented consistently across regions. By the end of this reporting period, IN4BLUE has established the people, tools and shared know-how needed to begin piloting support services for SMEs, while continuing to strengthen collaboration and learning within the Supporter Network.

Project outputs:
Local innovation value chain structure developed and delivered by mixed partnership of public and private organisations(EN)
IN4BLUE project partners receiving ERFD funds (EN)
Enterprises supported by the IN4BLUE project(EN)
Companies gaining new insights on viable quadruple-helix business concepts (EN)
Enterprises supported by the IN4BLUE project(EN)
Number of entrepreneurs, creative individuals and technology providers supported by the IN4BLUE program (EN)

Thematic information

Coastal management and maritime issues Labour market and employment SME and entrepreneurship

Priority: (VI-A_I-Hr_1) Sustainable growth in the blue economy

Priority specific objective: RSO1.4. Developing skills for smart specialisation, industrial transition and entrepreneurship

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO1 A more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity

Type of intervention: 023 Skills development for smart specialisation, industrial transition, entrepreneurship and adaptability of enterprises to change

Partners (8)

Lead Partner: Istarska razvojna agencija - IDA d.o.o.

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 950584190

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 90084809413 | 90084809413 | ida-uprava@ida.hr (EN)

Address: Marulićeva , 52100 Pula, Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: https://www.ida.hr/hr/

Total budget: EUR 354 600.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 283 680.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 70 920.00

Contractors:

Name: Design Sprint Academy GmbH&Co.
VAT registration or tax identification number: DE313976122
Name: SIDE HUSTLE MEDIA, obrt
VAT registration or tax identification number: 47168258317
Name: INFORMO - udruga
VAT registration or tax identification number: 29827599150
Name: MEDIA PROMOCIJA, obrt
VAT registration or tax identification number: 91610178491
Name: TRI M d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 86475294363
Name: IRMO
VAT registration or tax identification number: 31120185175
Name: VORTICE j.d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 66913419473

Lead Partner: Istarska razvojna agencija – IDA d.o.o.

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 950584190

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 90084809413 | 90084809413 | ida-uprava@ida.hr (EN)

Address: Marulićeva , 52100 Pula, Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: https://www.ida.hr/hr/

Total budget: EUR 354 600.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 283 680.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 70 920.00

Contractors:

Name: TRI M d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 86475294363
Name: IRMO
VAT registration or tax identification number: 31120185175
Name: VORTICE j.d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 66913419473

Venetian Cluster

Name: Venetian Cluster

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 942750955

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 03904910241 | 03904910241 | venetianhc@legalmail.it (EN)

Address: San Marco, 30124 Venezia, Italy

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://www.venetiancluster.eu

Total budget: EUR 201 044.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 201 044.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 100.00%

Ustanova za razvoj kompetencija, inovacija i specijalizacije Zadarske županije

Name: Ustanova za razvoj kompetencija, inovacija i specijalizacije Zadarske županije

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 883653414

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 45327324102 | 45327324102 | info@inovacija-zadar.hr (EN)

Address: Put Murvice, 23000 Zadar, Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: http://www.inovacija-zadar.hr

Total budget: EUR 183 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 146 400.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 36 600.00

Contractors:

Name: Spasilac d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 09865215848
Name: T.R.O. Kompjuter
VAT registration or tax identification number: 76459446847

TECNOPOLIS Parco Scientifico e Tecnologico-Società consortile a responsabilità limitata unipersonale

Name: TECNOPOLIS Parco Scientifico e Tecnologico-Società consortile a responsabilità limitata unipersonale

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 950162434

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 06848450729 | 06848450729 | parcotecnopolis@PEC.tecnopolispst.it (EN)

Address: Strada Provinciale per Casamassima km. 3, 70010 Valenzano, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.tecnopolispst.it

Total budget: EUR 215 520.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 215 520.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 100.00%

IRI Centar d.o.o.

Name: IRI Centar d.o.o.

Department: Creative HUB / Business incubator

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 060332957

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 70926422788 | 70926422788 | iricentar@iricentar.hr (EN)

Address: Cesta dr. Franje Tuđmana, 21213 Kaštel Gomilica, Croatia

Department address: Polinovac, 21216 Kaštel Novi, Croatia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://www.iricentar.hr

Total budget: EUR 223 792.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 179 033.60

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 44 758.40

Regione autonoma Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Name: Regione autonoma Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Department: Department for culture and sports

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 983174347

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 00526040324 | 80014930327 | cultura@certregione.fvg.it (EN)

Address: Piazza Unità d’Italia, 34121 Trieste, Italy

Department address: Via Milano, 34122 Trieste, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: https://www.regione.fvg.it/rafvg/cms/RAFVG/

Total budget: EUR 212 823.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 212 823.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 100.00%

Contractors:

Name: Friuli Innovazione SCARL
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT02159640305

Regione Autonoma Friuli Venezia Giulia

Name: Regione Autonoma Friuli Venezia Giulia

Department: Department for culture and sports

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 983174347

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 00526040324 | 80014930327 | cultura@certregione.fvg.it (EN)

Address: Piazza Unità d’Italia, 34121 Trieste, Italy

Department address: Via Milano, 34122 Trieste, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: https://www.regione.fvg.it/rafvg/cms/RAFVG/

Total budget: EUR 212 823.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 212 823.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 100.00%

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Venetian Cluster

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Partners and Projects info

Institution for development of competences, innovations and specialization of Zadar County

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Partners and Projects info

TECNOPOLIS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARK

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Partners and Projects info

IRI Centar Ilc

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Partners and Projects info

Friuli-Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Partners and Projects info

Istrian Development Agency - IDA Ltd.

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Partners and Projects info

Istrian development agency - IDA Ltd.

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Partners and Projects info

Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia

Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

Project acronym: IN4BLUE

Project ID: ITHR0200355

Project start date: 2024-03-01

Project end date: 2026-08-31

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

DIGITOUR (COSME) (EN) | Support (through cascade funding, financial support to third parties) to SMEs of the tourism sector for digitalisation actions.
DIGITOUR, will bring to project the knowledge and experience from this form of support to SMEs of the tourism sector, plus the existing territorial network with enterprises.
One of the objectives of DIGITOUR is to enhance digital skills and competencies within the tourism sector, then IN4BLUE's upskilling preparation phase, which focuses on providing awareness-raising activities within the IN4BLUE workshops program, is aligned with this objective. By offering awareness raising and exchange of experiences initiatives, IN4BLUE contributes to the development of a skilled workforce capable of leveraging digital technologies effectively within the tourism industry.
(EN), TOURISME (COSME) (EN) | The knowledge base and mapping of existing good practices in environmental management in the field of tourism can be a basis for the further development of project actions. This project will provide support for enabling the participating SMEs to scale up their activities and build capacities within their enterprises through knowledge transfer, exchanges and collaboration with other SMEs, business accelerators, incubators, development agencies and other tourism industry stakeholders across sectors in order to promote sustainable tourism and lead to competitive advantage, as an added value.
Through approaches like co-creation within Creative Laboratory actions, the project IN4BLUE fosters collaboration between SMEs, accelerators, incubators, and development agencies. This collaboration facilitates the sharing of best practices, innovative ideas, and resources, enabling SMEs to scale up their activities and promote sustainable tourism practices. Additionally, within transferability action exchange of knowledge and experiences through workshops and residency programmes contributes to the development of sustainable tourism initiatives and enhances the competitive advantage of participating SMEs.
(EN), CEnTOUR (COSME) (EN) | CEnTOUR – Circular Economy in Tourism is a COSME project that runs from September 2020 to September 2023, with the objective of supporting SMEs, in particular of the tourism sector, in the development and implementation of circular businesses (in terms of knowledge transfer, skills, innovation, certifications) within an integrated system for local development.
More specifically, this project aims to accelerate and support the capacity of SMEs in tourism to uptake sustainable solutions.
Project will benefit from results of CEnTOUR for the tools and methods to support SMEs of the tourism sector by sustainable solutions taken by other organizations as result of transferability actions. transferability action is intended to transferIN4BLUE methodology and upskilling program to other entreprenurial ecosystems, as well to transfer developed sustainable business models and concepts into practice that is an upgrade of CEnTOUR results.
(EN), BRANDTour (INTERREG EUROPE) (EN) | The objective of the BRANDTOUR project is to improve the partners’ capacity to support tourism through the promotion, innovation and diversification of the offer. The project aims to provide better policy instruments to develop new customised tourism products that can satisfy emerging target groups, and favour inbound flows towards the EU.
This project is providing experience about the following aspects that will be capitalised within IN4BLUE project:
- to innovate the offer by clustering tourism SMEs and products;
- to deliver more customised packages by diversifying the offer;
- to leverage local value chains and excellence to develop thematic and experience-oriented tourism.
By encouraging stakeholders to collaborate and generate new thematic ideas through realization of workshops and residency programmes and its deliverables, IN4BLUE promotes the development of innovative tourism products that can satisfy emerging target groups. This aligns with the objective of promoting the innovation and diversification of tourism offerings to attract inbound flows towards the EU.
(EN), Smart specialization strategy
S4 2021 2027 FVG (EN) | Implementation of Smart Specialization Strategy (S4) represents the evolution and consolidation of the “Culture, creativity and tourism” specialization area, that has been identified during the 2014-2020 Programming period as experimental field for the creation of new type of enterprise. The sector individuated considers cultural heritage, design, creative industry, tourism as one of its areas of specialisation and, within it, it dedicates 2 trajectories for development and technological innovation of CCIs: Trajectory 3: Tourism 4.0 new business model and Trajectory 4: sustainable innovations to build greener destinations, that are corresponding with the IN4BLUE project goals.
Catalogue of sustainable blu-economy service business concepts and business plans within IN4BLUE project that will be catalogized in the thematic fields – sustainable transport, accomodation, sustainable activities and services will contribute to Trajectory 3.
The new systematic approach within project in which creative actors and technology specialist in a form of social impact business incubators are collaborating together and internationally to design and prototype new sustainable concepts and business processes for the blue economy sector, all leading to increased capacity of area to cocreate and innovate will contribute to both Trajectories.
(EN), RP ERDF 2014-2020 (EN) | FVG AR supported the creation and development of start ups in cultural and creative sectors, in launching 3 Calls for Interventions in Support of CCIs with the PURPOSE the Interventions dedicated to enterprises within the specialisation area of culture, creativity and tourism 1st call: Pre-incubation and incubation Total budget €1.300.000,00; 2nd call: Acceleration and consolidation Total budget €700.000,00; 3rd call: Pre-incubation and incubation Total budget €2.026.450,80. Mentioned activities are alligned mostly with residency programmes within project IN4BLUE that is an international internship business incubation program aimed at promoting new ideas in the targeted areas that will shift the method of learning from common trainings to experience exchange and learn-by-doing practice. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 390 779.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 112 623.20

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 87.96%

Co-financing sources:

ERDF: Amount, EUR 1 112 623.20. Co-financing rate, 87.96%.
Others: Amount, EUR 125 877.40.

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Infrastructure investments:

I2.1 - Adaptation and construction work for SBI needs - EUR 36 000.00 - country: Hrvatska (HR), town: Pula, street: Marka Marulića, 5, postal_code: 52100, Jadranska Hrvatska (HR03), Istarska županija (HR036)

Deliverables:

IN4Blue technology database
Competence map of local EE
IN4BLUE support program
IN4BLUE Podcast - Come facciamo transizione blu
IN4BLUE supporter network
Report on initial key stakeholder training
Communication strategy
Stakeholder database
Summarized IN4BLUE creative laboratory event report
Catalogue of sustainable blue-economy service business concepts and business plans
Summarized IN4Blue workshops report
Catalogue of IN4BLUE workshops programs
Summarized report on IN4BLUE residency report
Report on strengthened capacities of key supporter network actors in green tech. and co-creation
Promotional campaign reports
Report on the social and general media
Report on horizontal principles
IN4BLUE support program - impact report
Report on contribution of IN4BLUE Social Business Incubator to the program horizontal principles
IN4BLUE program presentation book
In4BLUE business plan catalogue
IN4BLUE program transferability and business model transferability action report
IN4BLUE declaration statement
Report on general transferability actions
Project end report on the social and general media

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EuropeanGreenDeal Through the recomended solutions based on developed skills for smart specialization, industrial transition and entrepreneurship for SMEs operating in the Blue Economy sector, this project exhibits a strong connection with Specific Objective 1 of the European Green Deal, which aims to transition towards a sustainable, green economy by promoting research, innovation, and business opportunities. This project is focused on upskilling preparation and execution phases that directly contributes to advancing research and innovation within the context of the blue economy. By providing tailored awareness-raising events and fostering social co-creation through Creative Laboratory actions (activity 2.1 and deliverable 1.1.1), the project enables participants to develop new ideas, technologies and use-cases that support sustainability and environmental conservation. This aligns with the European Green Deal's emphasis on fostering innovation to address environmental challenges.
Development of transferability tools (activity 3.2) of IN4BLUE focuses on the transferability of project results as well transfer of developed sustainable business models and concepts into practice, which is crucial for scaling up successful initiatives and maximizing their impact. By sharing all above mentioned the project enhances the replication and adoption of sustainable practices across different regions and sectors. This aligns with the European Green Deal's objective of promoting knowledge sharing and cooperation to accelerate the transition to a green economy.
Other The project is consistent with the Implementation Plan of the Region of Istria 2022-2025 in the priority of action Regions of innovative and competitive economy in the function of sustainability in measure 3.2.4. Improvement of the entrepreneurial environment as a foundation for a safe and resilient economy in which the specific goal is a competitive and innovative economy, and the special goal is entrepreneurship based on research and innovation. The upskilling programme within activity 2.1., directly contributes to this measure by providing skill development opportunities to participants that will result in deliverable 1.1.1. - IN4BLUE technology database consisting of at least 80 use-cases of green transition. By enhancing the skills and knowledge of individuals involved in the blue economy, IN4BLUE supports the regional goal of strengthening human capital and fostering economic development.
This project is also aligned with measures 3.3.4. Improving the quality of products and services in tourism (consistention with deliverable 2.1.2.) and 3.3.5. The development of green tourism with the same strategic goal (consistention with deliverable 1.1.1), and a special goal is sustainable tourism based on the quality of service and authentic content.
Other European Agenda for Tourism 2030
The tourism significantly contributes to economic development across Europe and can help to achieve the objectives of various EU, national, regional and local policies thanks to its cross-cutting economic and social dimensions and the high ratio of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises operating directly or indirectly along the tourism value chain. Therefore, the project will support the digital and green transitions in the tourism ecosystem, especially in the coastal tourism, thanks the involvement of CCI stakeholders and business mentors as a IN4BLUE supporter network that will provide innovative and sustainable services.
This project will primarly contribute to the following goals and priorities of Agenda: Promoting Sustainability that involves promoting sustainable tourism practices, protecting natural and cultural heritage, and minimizing the environmental impact of tourism activities and Fostering Innovation that focuses on fostering innovation in areas such as tourism product development, marketing strategies, and the use of digital technologies. Activity 1.3 will contribute to both mentioned priorities in a way of raising competence level of IN4BLUE innovation value-chain members that will consequently have an impact on better tourism product development as well as driving sustainable innovation within the tourism industry.
Other Contribution to EU digital strategy for 2030.-The Digital Decade policy programme 2030., focused on bringing digital technology to businesses, citizens and public administrations promoting culture and sustainable tourism throught digital solutions and technologies in the area. One of the common challenges of the programme area that we are jointly tackling in IN4BLUE project are digital and sustainable technologies trought all the project activies. Since the main project OUTCOME is the change in perspective in which digital and green transition are not only economic activities but social as well and that ECOSYSTEM APPROACH of CO-CREATION not only leads to successful models of digital and green transformation but also significantly improves the participant skills. The project will support minimum of 90 SMEs and host more than 50 events resulting in 240 participations in the upskilling actions. Project will identify minimum 60 use-cases of green/digital transition and 18 sustainable technologies or sustainable techniques applicable in the
blue economy sector and will result in minimum 12 original business case models and 6 business plans developed.
EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion The project is in line with the EUSAIR Pillar 1 Blue Growth, and its Specific Objective 1: to promote research, innovation and business opportunities in blue economy sectors, by facilitating the brain circulation between research and business communities and increasing their networking and clustering capacity.
In particular the project is through activity A2.2 supports the development of skills for co-creation of digital and green business concepts; and uses the access to cross-border resources to enhance the local knowledge that is present in WP2 trough: creative dialogues (3), IN2BIZ workshops (3) and international case study pilots (3).
Also project is aligned with the EUSAIR Flagship project: FOSTERING QUADRUPLE HELIX TIES IN THE FIELDS OF MARINE TECHNOLOGIES AND BLUE BIO- TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADVANCING INNOVATION, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND BUSINESS ADAPTATION IN BLUE BIO-ECONOMY;
The alignment is within the base structure of IN4BLUE partnership that is a QUADRUPLEHELIX construction. Project uses the stakeholder competences to advance innovation and directly through activities A2.1, A2.2, A2,3 adds to the goals of the EUSAIR flagship project that is developing innovative business models (12).

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 002 - Enterprises supported by grants, Measurement unit:
RCO 001 - Enterprises supported (of which: micro, small, medium, large), Measurement unit:
RCO 004 - Enterprises with non-financial support, Measurement unit:
RCO 081 - Participations in joint actions across borders, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO87) Organisations cooperating across borders: 9.0
(RCO02) Enterprises supported by grants: 2.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 085 - Participations in joint actions across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSAIR

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A Italy-Croatia

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2026-01-21

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

82 / 82 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

556 / 556 (100%)

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Social impact INcubators FOR strenghtening the capacity of Adriatic region to support the sustainable industry transformation of the BLUE economy sector

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