The European Commission has launched a new call for proposals funded by the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). This call aims to support regional flagship projects that promote a sustainable blue economy in EU sea basins, focusing on Smart Specialisation, Regenerative Ocean Farming, and Algae Innovation.
This call covers two topics:
Topic 1: Maritime Regional Cooperation for Smart Specialisation and Innovation in the Sustainable Blue Economy
This topic seeks to enhance the Smart Specialisation (S3) thematic platform dedicated to the sustainable blue economy. Projects will focus on establishing and strengthening strategic interregional partnerships to develop and implement innovative solutions aligned with the EU’s sustainable blue economy priorities. Target sectors include fisheries, aquaculture, marine renewable energy, blue biotechnology, and coastal and maritime tourism.
Geographical Scope: Black Sea, Atlantic Ocean, Western Mediterranean Sea basins, and marine areas of the EU Outermost Regions.
Topic 2: Demonstrating Feasibility and Environmental Benefits of Regenerative Ocean Farming and Boosting Algae Innovation
This topic aims to validate the feasibility of establishing and operating ocean farms across various EU marine regions. Projects should assess the environmental benefits of regenerative farming practices using local seaweed species or a combination of seaweed and shellfish. Additionally, they should promote algae innovation by facilitating the development and market introduction of new algae-based products and services.
Geographical Scope: Black Sea, Baltic Sea, North Sea, Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea basins, and marine areas of the EU Outermost Regions.
If you are interested in learning more about the application process, join us for the Info Day on October 15 from 14:30 to 16:45 (CET), speakers from CINEA and DG MARE will provide insights, including tips on writing a successful proposal.
Deadline to submit proposals: February 18, 2025, by 17:00 CET
Overall budget: EUR 5.7 million
Find more here