EU-backed IN4BLUE blue economy project and T‑RISE innovation network launch

The IN4BLUE project, funded under the Interreg Italy‑Croatia 2021‑2027 programme, aims to develop sustainable business models for the blue economy in the Adriatic region. Led by the Institution for Development of Competences, Innovation and Specialization of Zadar County – INOVAcija, the initiative includes a residency programme in which participants from Croatia and Italy create concepts such as Goran Miočić’s “authentic fish tourism”. The model turns traditional fishing into an experiential, educational tourist activity that involves fishermen, QR‑code information on marine ecosystems and snorkeling experiences, and provides an additional income source for local fishing families.

The T‑RISE programme, one of 35 projects awarded European funding by the EIT Higher Education Initiative, brings together universities and research organisations across Europe to strengthen regional innovation ecosystems. Coordinated by the University of Alicante and involving partners from Spain, France, Slovenia, Lithuania, Portugal, Poland, Germany, Italy, Ukraine, Estonia and Bulgaria, T‑RISE focuses on digital and sustainable entrepreneurship. Key deliverables include a Joint Innovation Office for the Transform4Europe alliance and a communications work‑package led by the University of Primorska to disseminate results and engage stakeholders.