Innovation and Cross-Border Cooperation Opportunities Presented for Blue Economy SMEs in Opatija
14/05/2026
Within the international event held on 21 April 2026 in Opatija, the ECCENTRIC project organised a dedicated session focused on innovation, cross-border cooperation and support for SMEs operating in emerging blue economy sectors.
The session presented the main objectives and pilot activities of the ECCENTRIC project, including tools and methodologies developed to support SMEs in areas such as maritime innovation, sustainability and technology transfer. Particular attention was given to collaboration opportunities between SMEs and research institutions, as well as to innovation support mechanisms and future cooperation possibilities within the Adriatic area.
Project partners also presented examples of innovation-oriented activities and discussed opportunities for Croatian and Italian SMEs to strengthen their competitiveness through research cooperation, digitalisation and sustainable blue economy solutions. In addition, HAMAG-BICRO presented upcoming funding opportunities and public support instruments relevant for SMEs and innovation actors.
