On 22 May 2025, the European Commission officially launched the 2025–2027 Work Programme of the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument, unlocking €176 million in funding to support innovation-driven regional growth across the European Union. The I3 Instrument is part of the broader EU Cohesion Policy framework and plays a pivotal role in strengthening interregional value chains, fostering cross-border cooperation, and bringing market-ready innovations to scale.
As a strategic agency closely engaged in European innovation ecosystems, Moverim encourages regional stakeholders, SMEs, clusters, and project developers to explore the I3 Instrument as a powerful tool for expanding their innovation potential. With strong thematic alignment to Europe’s twin transition agenda, the programme presents particularly attractive opportunities for projects focused on green transition, circular economy, and sustainable construction and agriculture.
Who Can Benefit from I3 Funding?
The I3 Instrument specifically targets investment-ready consortia that bring together a diversity of actors:
- SMEs and start-ups
- Research and technology organisations (RTOs)
- Public authorities and regional governments
- Clusters and innovation hubs
- Civil society actors and end-users
To qualify, projects must be developed to at least Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6, ensuring a focus on innovation that is ready for piloting or demonstration in a real operational environment. All funded actions must also align with the participating regions’ Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3) — encouraging synergies between regional strengths and European strategic priorities.
Three Thematic Pillars: Digital, Green, and Smart Manufacturing
The I3 Instrument is particularly geared toward sectors driving the twin green and digital transitions. The 2025–2027 Work Programme is structured around three thematic areas:
Green Transition: supporting projects focused on environmental sustainability, such as bio-based fertilisers, circular economy models, clean energy, pollution reduction, and sustainable construction. This thematic area is especially relevant for initiatives like P2GreeN, which contributes to the circular use of nutrients in agriculture, and e-SAFE, which advances integrated renovation solutions for energy-efficient and earthquake-resilient buildings.
Digital Transition: encouraging digital transformation across regions through innovation in ICT, AI, cybersecurity, and digital services.
Smart Manufacturing: promoting advanced production systems, resource-efficient industrial processes, and new materials.
By aligning with one or more of these pillars, applicants can position their proposals for maximum impact. The I3 Programme not only provides substantial funding, but also fosters collaboration between regions with complementary strengths—an approach well suited for cross-sectoral projects like those Moverim is already supporting.
Funding Details and How to Apply
The I3 Instrument is structured into two main strands (plus a third capacity-building strand to open later in 2025):
Strand 1: For regions sharing Smart Specialisation priorities. Requires at least 5 entities from 5 different regions and 3 EU countries, with 2 partners from less developed regions.
Strand 2a: For less developed regions seeking to build or connect new value chains. Requires at least 3 entities from 3 regions in 2 different countries.
Strand 2b: (Opening 23 October 2025) Focuses on capacity-building and ecosystem development in less developed regions.
Project Funding:
- EU contribution: €2 million – €10 million
- EU funding rate: up to 70% of eligible costs (and 100% when financial support is passed on to third parties)
- Project duration: 18–36 months
- Indirect costs: Flat rate of 7%
Deadlines:
- Strands 1 and 2a: 13 November 2025
- Strand 2b: Opens 23 October 2025, closes 19 March 2026
Why This Matters Now
With the twin transition at the heart of the EU’s policy agenda, the I3 Programme is a key tool to transform regional strengths into transnational impact. For organisations developing advanced solutions in areas such as circular agriculture, sustainable construction, or digital manufacturing, this is a crucial window to scale innovation, secure strategic funding, and build lasting interregional partnerships.
Whether you are part of a technology provider, a regional innovation agency, or an SME cluster, Moverim invites you to explore the I3 Instrument and consider joining a consortium to take your innovation to the next level.
For more information and guidance on how to apply, visit the EISMEA website and check out the Infoday session presentation held on 11 June 2025.