I3-4-BLUE GROWTH

Unlocking Innovation and Investment in Europe’s Blue Economy
Unlocking Innovation and Investment in Europe’s Blue Economy

I3-4-BLUE GROWTH is a European project funded under the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument, designed to strengthen innovation ecosystems and accelerate investment opportunities across the blue economy. The initiative supports less-developed coastal and insular regions in building the capacity needed to identify, develop, and scale interregional innovation projects that contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive blue economy.

Bringing together leading innovation agencies, clusters, technology centres, and ecosystem builders from across Europe, the project fosters collaboration between businesses, technology providers, investors, policymakers, and research organisations. Through capacity-building programmes, matchmaking activities, ecosystem visits, policy dialogues, and investment readiness support, I3-4-BLUE GROWTH helps transform innovative ideas into viable investment opportunities and long-term business growth.

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The project focuses on two strategic value chains with significant growth potential:

  • Sustainable seafood, aquaculture, and valorisation of blue resources
  • Renewable marine energy and maritime decarbonisation

These sectors play a crucial role in Europe's transition towards a sustainable and climate-neutral economy, creating opportunities for innovation, job creation, regional development, and environmental stewardship.

Through its activities, I3-4-BLUE GROWTH supports project promoters and technology providers in identifying collaboration opportunities, accessing new markets, strengthening business models, and preparing investment-ready projects. The initiative also promotes knowledge transfer between regions, enabling stakeholders to learn from best practices and accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions across Europe.

Through interregional cooperation and strategic collaboration, I3-4-BLUE GROWTH is helping shape the future of Europe's blue economy, creating stronger innovation ecosystems, fostering sustainable investment, and unlocking new pathways for growth across coastal and maritime regions.

OVERALL BUDGET: 1 363 981,33€

Project Coordinator:

ANI – National Innovation Agency (Portugal)

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