Enhancing Cross-Border Blue Growth: Fostering Innovation and Cooperation for Competitive Entrepreneurship (BLUECONNECT)

Priority Axis 1: Smart investments in research, innovation and competitive entrepreneurship
Operation start date: 1 August 2024
Operation completion date: 31 January 2027
Budget: EUR 944.533,80
Number of partners: 4

Operation purpose and expected achievements:
The BLUECONNECT project is focused on boosting research, innovation, and the latest technology in order to achieve sustainable use of maritime resources (Blue Growth) across the Programme area. Like many others, this region grapples with challenges such as responsible marine resource management, sustainable coastal development, and the pressing need to shift toward a greener economy.
To tackle these issues, BLUECONNECT is creating a Blue Growth Cluster and an online collaboration platform. Think of it as a community hub where businesses, researchers, and local leaders can come together to share ideas and drive sustainable growth.
This project also promotes smarter ways to use resources, cut down on waste, and recycle more. The aim is to inspire everyone to adopt practices that not only help the planet, but also make the most of what we have.

 

Beneficiaries:

The Lead partner (LP), Institute of Marine Biology (ME) provides expertise in marine and coastal research, making it a pivotal institution for driving Blue Growth initiatives. In addition, Lead partner is piloting new technologies for efficient aquaculture management and sustainable coastal development practices.

Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (HR) is a leading institution in fisheries and aquaculture research in Croatia. The project will enhance the Eastern Adriatic Fishery Advocacy Centre’s (EAFAC) ability to monitor early developmental stages of commercially exploited species, improving fisheries management.

Chamber of Economy of Montenegro (ME) as an intermediary organization crucial in creating economic policies that favour entrepreneurship. Through the project, it will foster collaboration in the blue economy, driving sustainable growth and economic resilience in the South Adriatic region.

Chamber of Economy of Federation of BiH (BA) contributes to the project’s goals by engaging circular economy companies. One key initiative includes procuring a 5-ton capacity chamber for storing products and by-products, which will boost productivity in freshwater fish processing.