COOPeR 2.0
Priority Axis 1: Smart investments in research, innovation and competitive entrepreneurship
Operation start date: 1 June 2026
Operation completion date: 31 May 2028
Budget: EUR 1.158.847,84
Number of partners: 5
Operation purpose and expected achievements:
The COOPeR 2.0 project aims to strengthen the competitiveness and innovation capacities of the olive production sector across Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro through enhanced cooperation between research institutions, businesses, and public authorities. Building on the established network of olive growers from the previous COOPER project, the project will introduce advanced technologies, innovative practices, and knowledge-sharing activities to improve olive production and product quality. The project will upgrade the Olive Centre in Mostar with a modern laboratory for olive oil analysis and a specialized greenhouse for olive plant propagation. Through the establishment of pilot olive groves (Living Labs) and the development of digital solutions such as the “Olive Eye” platform for pest management, COOPeR 2.0 will support sustainable production, better decision-making, and increased competitiveness of olive growers. By applying the triple helix cooperation model, the project will contribute to stronger innovation networks and economic growth of the olive sector in the Programme area.
Beneficiaries:
The Lead Partner (LP), City of Mostar (BA), is responsible for the overall coordination and management of the project. It leads the upgrade of the Olive Centre in Mostar through the establishment of an olive oil plant, laboratory and greenhouse, coordinates project implementation, and supports the transfer of innovative technologies and knowledge to olive growers across the programme area.
Croatian Chamber of Economy – Split County Chamber (HR) contributes to strengthening the competitiveness of olive producers through capacity-building, education and internationalisation activities. It coordinates training programmes, market analysis and networking opportunities while supporting the implementation of the Living Lab and knowledge transfer to producers.
Institute for Adriatic Crops and Karst Reclamation (HR) provides scientific and technical expertise in olive growing and olive oil production. It leads the development of innovative cultivation and monitoring solutions, supports the establishment of the greenhouse and digital monitoring system, and delivers specialised training for olive producers across all participating countries.
Chamber of Economy of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BA) is responsible for stakeholder engagement and cooperation with olive growers and producers. It coordinates the development of the web monitoring platform, organises educational events and networking activities, and promotes the uptake of innovative solutions within the olive sector.
University of Montenegro – Biotechnical Faculty (ME) contributes scientific expertise in plant protection, olive cultivation and agricultural research. It supports the implementation of Living Lab activities, develops innovative monitoring methods for olive pests, participates in the development of the digital platform, and delivers training and knowledge transfer activities for producers throughout the programme area.
Jems