Transformative Innovation Projects
We have curated a comprehensive database on transformative innovation projects and trainings conducted by various innovation agencies, (inter-)national partners and innovation funds, towards innovation-led sustainable transformations, for example on enhancing transformative innovation policy and measures and innovation foresight. This includes notable contributions from ETIN members, ETIN partners, and other stakeholders representing examples of potential, actionable approaches to driving meaningful change.
It is important to note that this draft document is intended as a guide and should not be viewed as exhaustive. Users are encouraged to consult additional sources and expert opinions to address specific needs and concerns. We also welcome your feedback and comments to ensure this document remains relevant and aligned with the evolving landscape of transformative innovation.”
Country | Agencies & Funds | Projects: Description & Transformative Impacts | Links | Status |
Germany | Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK) | 1. GreenTech Innovation Competition · A technology programme is to combine economic and ecological interests through digital technologies. · A total of 21 projects will receive funding around 75 million euros from BMWK over 3 years for the development of digital innovation projects aimed at supporting efforts to achieve climate and environmental targets and boost the competitiveness of companies in Germany. · Digital technologies have potential to make decisive contribution to the ecological sustainability transformation; thus, to the achievement of Germany and Europe’s climate and environmental protection goals. | Ongoing (10/2023 to 12/2027) | |
Azerbaijan | Innovation and Digital Development Agency | 1. Department of Nuclear Research · Established as an executive state institution in the field of nuclear sciences and nuclear technologies in the Republic of Azerbaijan. It will provide: - Sterilization service using radiation technology. - Services on the analysis of radioactive substances in products of various purposes. - Expertise services of nuclear and radioactive material to relevant state institutions. - Personnel training in nuclear and radiation sciences. Objective of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency - serves to organize activities in the field of digital transformation in the country, to form a local innovation environment, and to strengthen the ecosystem. · To carry out testing experiments of nuclear science and technologies, to support individuals and legal entities in their innovation-oriented research and innovative projects (Startups), to provide accessible education and career opportunities in the field of ICT in the country by providing assistance in obtaining modern technologies and technological solutions, digital government and digital Building and organizing the society are priority directions of the Agency. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Portugal | Compete 2030 | · COMPETE 2030 intervenes only in convergence regions to promote the competitiveness of the national economy through R&D investment or promotion of sustainability and energy autonomy. · The projects are designated for “Business development and internationalization of SMEs, including productive investments” of different fields such as health, winery, furniture… · In this context, the growing use of digital tools is valued, using technologies and processes associated with digital channels. SO2: A Greener Portugal Strategic objective of Compete 2030: pursues the challenges of the climate transition, supporting innovation through the decarbonization of companies and energy efficiency and investing in the reinforcement of renewable energies. | Ongoing (01/2023 to 01/2025) | |
Germany | Unleash Future Boats | Key facts · Unleash Future Boats develops zero emission autonomous boats and ships with green hydrogen. Reducing 3,7% of European CO2 emissions and enabling a new era of maritime transportation, ocean research, digital logistics and mobility. · Recognized Top 5 out of 916 mobility solutions globally. · They recognize the vitality of space data in their pursuit of transforming maritime transportation. Thus, leverages satellite imagery and utilizes the advanced capabilities of the Galileo satellite system to provide precise location data for their products. · Their project ZeroOne, holds the title of the world’s 1st fully autonomous and zero-emission catamaran. Ongoing transformative projects: 1. FutureOne · A zero-emission autonomous taxi/uber on the water. This allows to effectively turn rivers and waterways into valuable infrastructure for the masses, while connecting rural areas with cities and megacities. 2. CargoOne · Provides a cost-efficient and scalable logistics solution, or an autonomous taxi for containers, which ranges up to 45 metres in length. · Provides retrofit kits for converting existing boats into green vessels powered by green hydrogen and fuel cells. 4. Innovative Sensor Technology · Advanced sensor technologies for autonomous navigation. They are designed to handle the harsh maritime environment, providing reliable detection and positioning. · To enhance the user experience and operational efficiency. These services include OwnerCare for private boat owners and FleetManager for managing fleets. This ensures seamless operation and maintenance, adding significant value to the company's innovative products. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Montenegro | Innovation Fund | 1. Collaborative grants for innovation · Is the award of grants to MSMEs that carry out research and development projects with the aim of developing new products, services, technologies or processes in cooperation with “organizations for research and dissemination of knowledge”. 2. Vouchers for the protection of invention · Is designed to support innovators in safeguarding their intellectual property. The initiative provides financial assistance to individuals and companies for patent applications, ensuring their inventions are legally protected. This program aims to encourage innovation by reducing the financial barriers associated with securing patents, thereby fostering a more robust culture of creativity and technological advancement in Montenegro. · Under the process of development. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Germany | SPRIN-D | Key facts · The Federal Agency for Disruptive Innovation SPRIN-D helps radical new ideas and technologies that make all our lives noticeably better to achieve a breakthrough. · Its projects promote European solutions in digitalization or accelerate groundbreaking innovations in the fields of life sciences, environmental technologies and sustainability. Ongoing transformative projects: 1. Oliment: sustainable cement · Aims to develop a CO2-neutral binder for concrete applications. It thus seeks to reduce the carbon footprint of cement production significantly, contributing to more sustainable construction practice. · Aims to enhance cancer immunotherapy by employing a two-key principle, potentially increasing the effectiveness and precision of cancer treatments. · Aims to explore the use of memristors, which are components that can store and process information, to manage the growing flood of data more efficiently. These devices could revolutionize data storage and processing by mimicking neural processes. · Aims to develop new methods for curing viral diseases using DNA origami techniques. Therefore, aims to create precise and effective treatments for various viral infections. 5. LOGIBODies: Nanorobots in Cancer Therapy · Led by Plectonic, this aims to use nanorobots to target and "turn off" cancer cells, providing a highly targeted form of cancer therapy that minimizes damage to healthy cells. · Aims to invest and support a stable and vital open-source ecosystem, which is crucial for digital sovereignty. Thus, focuses on ensuring that critical digital infrastructure remains secure and independent. · Aims to bring the high-volume production of small imaging optics back to Europe, potentially revitalizing the region's capability in advanced camera technologies. · Aims to revolutionize database technology by emulating the cognitive processes of the human brain. Thus, explores how cognitive functions (learning, adaptation, and problem-solving) can enhance data management and processing systems, leading to more efficient and intelligent databases. 9. Nanogami: Revolutionizing the healthcare sector · Aims to develop nanoscale devices and materials that promise to revolutionize various industries by offering unprecedented precision and efficiency. In healthcare, these make breakthroughs in diagnostics, treatment delivery systems, and personalized medicine. · Through augmented reality (AR), these glasses aim to revolutionize communication and interaction, providing advanced realistic and immersive experiences that could transform various industries. 11. PRI-002: Defeating Alzheimer’s Disease · Focuses on a novel approach to combating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the toxic protein aggregates in the brain known as oligomers. These oligomers are formed from innocuous single proteins called Abeta monomers, which become toxic when they clump together, leading to neuronal death and the progression of Alzheimer's. 12. Beventum: Inland Wind Turbines · Aims to develop advanced high-altitude wind turbines, which are about twice the height of existing wind turbines, designed for use in inland areas, potentially increasing the efficiency and reach of wind energy production. 13. Microbubbles: Microplastics Solution · Through developing microflotation system for wastewater treatment, it aims to address the problem of microplastics in the environment by developing new technologies to eliminate or reduce their presence. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
The UK | Innovation Growth Lab, Nesta | · Aims to to build the mindset, culture and capabilities to become more experimental organisations. With this it advocates increased investment on policy experimentation through experimentation funding calls, with the support of the European Commission and the UK government. · They created online resources that help organisations in becoming more experimental, such as the guide on running randomised controlled trials in innovation, entrepreneurship, growth, and dynamic learning. · Aims to increase the quantity, quality, and funding of experimental research in this field, generating evidence that helps scale up effective programmes and leads to more impactful policies. · E.g. testing the impact of innovation vouchers and citizen-engagement experiments. 3. Data Science and Innovation Mapping · Aims to integrating data into innovation policy, which allows organizations to identify emerging trends and potential opportunities while navigating challenges. · It is a practical tool for informed decision-making, clarifying intricate innovation ecosystems, and providing insights into the ever-evolving digital environment. · They built a shared taxonomy of research activities in the UK, which was used to compare R&I across academia and industry. · Aims to adopt and promote experimental approach to enhance science, innovation, entrepreneurship and business policies. Therefore, advocate widely in favour of a shift from traditional to experimental policy design and development through fund calls. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Spain | The NTWK | · A platform for Circular Economy Transition. · Annual summit and think tank, aims to explore the potential of digital platforms to facilitate the transition to a circular economy. Thus, aims to integrate different innovations to create synergies and promote sustainable consumption and production patterns. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Uzbekistan | National Office for Innovation Implementation and Technology Transfer | Under Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovations 1. Modernizing Uzbekistan’s national innovation system (MUNIS) project · Aims to enable the development of a market-oriented national innovation system in Uzbekistan. The project is provided 50 million US dollars to realize several research and innovation grant programs. · The REP is a competitive research grant program of MUNIS that will finance several selection rounds of research projects under strict selection and monitoring processes. The total available budget is 10 million USD. · REP ignites the NIS transformative effort aiming to a better and more relevant research status; stronger collaboration between science and industry; additional and higher quality of public spending on R&D. · The project aims to support STI- National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy of Uzbekistan for 2021-2030. | Ongoing Until 2030 | |
Multi-country | Transformative Innovation Policy Consortium (TIPC) | 1. Research · TIPC conducts research focused on sustainability transitions and transformative innovation policies (TIP). · It aims to emphasize systemic understanding of socio-technical systems, aiming to address complex social and environmental challenges through policy experimentation and collaboration. · Key components include developing transformative theories of change, creating and assessing transformative outcomes, and fostering a global research community. · TIPC's cornerstone research papers provide theoretical foundations and practical frameworks for implementing and evaluating TIP strategies. · Aims to capture the ethos of exploration and learning in alternative ways of doing things for transformative change. · TIP Resource Lab developed The Component 2 User Guide · provides an introduction to experimentation for Transformative Innovation Policy. The lab provides guidance and tools for creating an experimental space, defining and managing an experiment in TIP-orientated projects, programmes and policy initiatives. TIPC have Latin American Hub & Transformative innovation Africa Hub, where they provide above 2 activities. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Armenia | Ministry of High-Tech Industry | 1. From Idea to Business Grant Program · Provides funding to startups at the ideation stage, helping them transition from concept to commercialization. It supports innovation by offering financial resources and mentorship to promising tech entrepreneurs. 2. Armenian Virtual Bridge Program · Aims to connect Armenian tech startups with international markets, investors, and mentors. Thus, aims to facilitate global exposure and opportunities for local entrepreneurs, helping them scale their businesses internationally. 3. International Accelerator Program · Aims to accelerate the growth of Armenia's most promising startups and solidify the country's position as a rising tech hub in the region. · The program acts as a center for technological innovation, providing startups with exclusive access to international investors, world-class mentors, state-of-the-art office space, and introductions to Plug and Play's extensive network of corporate partners. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Georgia | Georgia’s Innovation and Technology Agency | 1. Technology Transfer Pilot Program · Aims to facilitate the commercialization of scientific projects that respond to market needs. · Technologies/innovations with potential for commercialization will be selected. Research projects that are at the technological readiness level TRL4 and above are accepted for evaluation. Local and foreign experts with qualified and relevant experience will carry out both initial assessment and detailed study of the received projects. | N/A |
Country | Agencies & Funds | Trainings: Description & Transformative Impacts | Links | Status |
Germany | Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK) | 1. The Competence Center for Innovative Procurement (KOINNO) · A funding project to permanently strengthen the innovation orientation of public procurement in Germany and to increase the proportion of innovation procurement in the total volume of public procurement within the country. They offer: · Seminars: on the topics of strategic procurement, current public procurement law, procurement of ICT, etc. · In-house trainings: specifically tailored to the specific needs of procurement organization that includes innovation-oriented types of procurement such as negotiated procedures, functional tenders, specifications and side offers. The goal is to implement permanent aspect "innovation" in the future procurement activities. · E-Learning: learning from over 100 graphics, videos and digressions what innovative public procurement is and how it can be applied in practice. Free of charge · Consultation: free advice to all public procurement offices on general and individual questions in the field of innovative procurement as well as on European subsidies. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Azerbaijan | Innovation and Digital Development Agency | · Network of Schools provides Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education in Silicon Valley with high-quality technological programs based on innovative and practical methodology. · Peer-to-peer learning, anyone over the age of 18 · 60 people who successfully pass the stages get the right to participate in the trainings and get the opportunity to study with a full scholarship. · After mastering basic computer science skills in the first 9 months, students can work as junior software engineers or enter one of the six specializations offered by the program (machine learning, augmented and virtual reality, "Low level and Algorithms", "Full stack", "Front- end" and "Back-end" programming) can apply. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Portugal | Compete 2030 | · Aims to promote the increase and consolidation of exports by companies located in the NUT II Regions of the continent, in particular SMEs in the District of Aveiro, and its international recognition, through the implementation of internationalization actions, namely international training actions. | Page 14. | Ongoing (01/2023 to 12/2024) |
Germany | Unleash Future Boats | · In collaboration with the University of Lübeck and the Ethical Innovation Hub, Unleash Future Boats integrates students into the heart of the company’s activities through challenge-based learning. · 2023 focus areas included AI, the consequences of climate change, and leadership responsibility. · Students are given the freedom to choose which topics they wish to proactively engage with, without templates but with full support. Imagine an extended advisory board, particularly intriguing in the realm of disruptive technology. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Montenegro | Innovation Fund | 1. Support early-stage startup development · Designed to support highly promising teams aiming to validate their business ideas. through grant financing and mentorship services that will help them execute the first phase of in-depth market research, begin product development, establish their business model concept and initiate preparation for the next phase of fundraising and development. The grant financing provided by the Fund is limited to a maximum of EUR 30,000 per project. 2. Implementation of educational programs in the areas of smart specialization · Designed to engage prominent professionals, scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs from home and abroad who, in a structured format, through training lasting up to 6 months, can contribute to the improvement of knowledge and skills of young people (students, young researchers, and professionals). The applicant can receive funding from this program line up to 10,000 euros. 3. Encouraging innovation culture · Designed to raise awareness among the general public (university, academic, scientific-research, and business communities, especially young people) about the importance of developing innovation activities for sustainable development and the measures supporting the development of technological and social innovations, startup ecosystems, innovation entrepreneurship, and innovation infrastructure. The applicant can receive funding from this program line up to 8,000 euros. Some categories of costs of training can be funded under certain call. Please view the website. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Germany | SPRIN-D | 1. Coaching · SPRIND offers tailored coaching to support teams in navigating the challenges of disruptive innovation. Recognizing that such innovations often face resistance from established markets and require coordination across diverse disciplines, SPRIND assigns expert coaches to guide teams through these complexities. This close support is designed to help innovators overcome the numerous obstacles that arise when bringing transformative ideas to life, ensuring they have the expertise needed to successfully implement their innovations. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
The UK | Innovation Growth Lab, Nesta | 1. Playbook for innovation learning · Designed for innovation practitioners who want to spread innovation skills, methods and tools or build an innovation capacity. It covers the design of effective learning experiences, identification and articulation of learning needs, pitching a learning offer at the right level, and connection of a team or innovation strategy with learning and development. Main objective of IGL: For the core members of Innovation Growth Lab, they run working groups on topics of shared interest, and deliver a regular programme of inspiration sessions and bespoke workshops. In collaboration with others they deliver capacity building programmes to organisations that are either taking their 1st steps with experimental policymaking, or that are developing more expert practices. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Spain | The NTWK | 1. The Circular Logistics Platform Strategy Masterclass · A program designed to educate professionals on the development and implementation of circular logistics strategies. It focuses on creating sustainable and efficient logistics systems that align with circular economy principles, emphasizing the reuse, recycling, and responsible management of resources. Participants learn about the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices to enhance their organization’s sustainability efforts through circular logistics. | N/A | |
Uzbekistan | National Office for Innovation Implementation and Technology Transfer | · Together with UNECE and the National Office for Innovation Implementation and Technology Transfer organized a workshop for Chief Innovation Officers from over 100 state-owned enterprises (SOEs). 2. Roundtable · UNECE and the National Office also organized a roundtable with start-ups. | N/A | |
Munti-country | Transformative Innovation Policy Consortium (TIPC) | 1. The Transformative Innovation Policy Resource Lab (TIP Resource Lab) · Supports the development and implementation of innovation policies aimed at addressing global challenges such as sustainability, inequality, and social well-being. It provides a collaborative space for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to explore and share tools, frameworks, and knowledge that foster transformative change across various sectors and regions. Through its resources and networks, the lab facilitates the co-creation of strategies that drive systemic innovation, ensuring that policies contribute to broader societal goals. 2. Transformative Innovation Policy TIP Conference 2022 · Featuring OECD and NESTA, was an event aimed to explore how innovation policy can be reoriented to drive transformative change across various sectors and regions. It brought together policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to discuss strategies for creating more inclusive and sustainable innovation ecosystems. TIPC’s next phase of the learning programme will focus on: · supporting regional and global network platforms for practitioners engaged in transformative change; · drawing on ‘live’ experimentation in diverse policy contexts, and · building capabilities, through use of the TIP Resource Lab, through learning from application of TIP ‘on the ground’, and through insights from practitioners stretching TIP thinking and connecting it to other fields. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Armenia | Ministry of High-Tech Industry | 1. Internship in Practice Pilot Project · Offers practical training opportunities for students and recent graduates in high-tech companies. The aim is to provide hands-on experience and facilitate the integration of young professionals into the tech industry. 2. Innovate Armenia 2024 Workshop · Focuses on developing a comprehensive national strategy for the high-tech sector. The workshop brings together key stakeholders from Armenia’s high-tech industry to draft a strategy that outlines clear goals and practical plans. Supported by USAID, UNIDO, and UNECE, this strategy aims to position Armenia as a significant player in the global high-tech arena. 3. Neruzh Diaspora Tech Start-Up Program · Designed to encourage Armenian diaspora professionals to invest their knowledge and skills back into Armenia, this program supports tech startups with funding and resources to help them commercialize their projects. 4. University-Private Sector Cooperation for Training Specialists · Fosters collaboration between universities and private companies to train specialists in high-demand tech fields. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to meet the needs of the high-tech sector. · Focused on inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers, this project offers educational programs and hands-on experiences related to space and technology. It aims to cultivate interest in STEM fields among young Armenians. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Georgia | Georgia’s Innovation and Technology Agency | 1. Innovation and technology camp for students · Within the framework of the World Bank project "National Innovation Ecosystem", Ilia State University will hold an innovation and technology camp for students in August-September in two streams. · Curricula includes: listening to scientific-popular lectures on artificial intelligence, robotics, drones, civil engineering, design, biochemistry and astrophysics; working on programming Arduino, robots and drones; getting to know the entrepreneurial and startup approaches of modern technologies; conducting engaging scientific experiments; and participating in various engineering competitions. | N/A |
Country | Agencies & Funds | Projects: Description & Transformative Impacts | Links | Status |
Multi-country | OECD | 1. OECD Working Party on Innovation & Technology Policy (TIP) · The OECD Working Party on Innovation and Technology Policy (TIP) provides evidence-based advice to countries to foster STI policies that enhance productivity and foster sustainable and inclusive knowledge-driven economic growth, strengthen public research institutions and their contributions to innovation and economic performance, and foster the creation of science and technology-based firms. 2. OECD Innovation Policy Reviews · Aimed to provide comprehensive assessments of the innovation policies of OECD member and partner countries. They identify strengths, weaknesses, and provide actionable recommendations to enhance national innovation systems. · The reviews target national governments, policymakers, and institutions aiming to improve their innovation ecosystems. These reviews are conducted through comprehensive research, data analysis, and often in collaboration with international organizations and national authorities to ensure the implementation of tailored, actionable insights for innovation policies. 3. OECD Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Outlook · Highlights how global innovation can be leveraged to manage disruptions like climate change, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain dependencies. The STI Outlook provides guidance on how to align science and technology with sustainability goals and stresses the need for policies that encourage low-carbon technologies and sustainable economic growth. · It targets policymakers, researchers, and innovators across sectors who focus on capacity building, regulatory frameworks, and international collaboration. Collaborative efforts with global organizations and country governments are key, along with capacity-building initiatives to foster transformative innovations in areas like green and digital transitions. 4. STIP Compass · A collaborative initiative between the European Commission and the OECD. An online toolkit that tracks global policy initiatives related to science, technology, and innovation. It serves as an interactive platform where countries can share and analyze policy data, thereby facilitating international collaboration and the diffusion of best practices. This tool is essential for aligning national policies with global objectives like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). · It targets stakeholders such as government agencies, research organizations, and policymakers. The initiative is often carried out in collaboration with national authorities, international organizations, and academic institutions to enhance policy coordination and innovation outcomes. 5. OECD Observatory of Public Sector Innovation (OPSI) · A collaborative platform that helps governments around the world find innovative ways to address public challenges. OPSI serves as a global forum to share and analyze new approaches and tools to inspire innovation in the public sector. · OPSI Offers a suite of recourse and tools designed to help public sector organizations implement innovation projects effectively. These include guides on human-centered design, behavioral insights, and data-driven decision-making: A comprehensive guide that helps public sector practitioners find and use various tools and methodologies to foster innovation in their work. A repository of real-world examples of public sector innovation from various countries. - The Portfolio Exploration Tool Helps public sector organizations to visualize and analyze their innovation portfolios. - The BI Knowledge Hub (Behavioral Insights Knowledge Hub) Resource center focused on the application of behavioral insights in public policy. 6. Agenda for Transformative Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policies · Developed by the OECD outlines a strategic framework designed to guide governments in reforming their STI systems to address pressing global challenges, such as climate change, inequality, and geopolitical tensions. This agenda emphasizes the need for policies that not only drive technological and scientific advancements but also align these advancements with broader societal goals like sustainability, inclusiveness, and resilience. · It targets policymakers, researchers, and innovation agencies. The support is delivered through capacity building, research collaborations, policy recommendations, and regulatory frameworks. These initiatives are often conducted in collaboration with international organizations, governments, and private sector partners. 7. Transformative Competencies for 2030 · An initiative by the OECD that focuses on equipping students with the skills needed to navigate and shape a rapidly changing world. These competencies are embedded in curricula to help students not only thrive in the future workforce but also contribute positively to society. The framework emphasizes three core competencies: creating new value, reconciling tensions and dilemmas, and taking responsibility. These skills encourage learners to innovate, make balanced decisions in complex situations, and act ethically, ensuring they are prepared to address global challenges like sustainability and digital transformation. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Multi-country | EU | 1. New European Innovation Agenda · Aims to position Europe at the forefront of deep tech innovation, enabling the development and market introduction of technologies that address key societal challenges. It leverages innovation procurement to modernize public services while fostering the growth of innovative companies. Europe aspires to be a hub where top talent collaborates with leading companies, driving deep tech innovation and delivering breakthrough solutions that are widely adopted across the continent. · It targets a variety of stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, businesses, and innovation actors across Europe. 2. Preparatory Action (2024-2026) · Aims for an advancement in the application of transformative innovation policies across EU regions and beyond. There will be specially developed capacity building programs, 6 experimentation journeys targeting real challenges in participating territories and offering real solutions. Also, research activities on transformative innovation policy practice will be conducted, along with policy discussion and inputs for the next programming period. · It targets government bodies, research institutions, industry representatives, and local communities. 3. Transformative innovation for climate resilience · Centers on developing and implementing innovative solutions that enhance Europe’s ability to adapt to climate change. One of the outputs include experimenting and co-creating the testing implementation of systems change for climate resilience, e.g. through target peer reviews. · It targets stakeholders involved in climate adaptation and resilience, including government agencies, environmental organizations, researchers, and local communities. 4. Higher education and skills for transformative innovation · Focuses on altering higher education systems and governance to better equip students with the skills to drive societal transformations. It thus aims at diversifying toolkits for systems change. · It targets higher education institutions, policymakers, and educational stakeholders. The project emphasizes research, capacity building, and policy development in education and skills training. 5. REGDUALOSA · Exploratory Research Activity to understand how regional innovation policies can effectively leverage the dual-use and defence industry, which can serve both civilian and military applications and foster development while contributing to strategic visions of the EU. · It targets defense sector stakeholders, regional industrial actors, and policymakers. This project often involves collaboration with industry partners, research institutions, and government agencies to ensure comprehensive support for innovation and industrial development. 6. The Transformative Innovation Policy (TIP) within the EU Framework Programme for R&D · A crucial solution to shift towards addressing global challenges through systemic change. · 2 studies were conducted on strengthening TIP: 1) assesses the transformative nature of the EU Framework Programme for R&I, concluding that there is significant shift from pure technological innovation to addressing broader societal challenges and SDGs in EU R&I policies. 2) emphasizes that the use of a systems approach and system-based methods can foster adaptability, collaboration, and long-term impact, supporting the Transformative potential of EU R&I policy. | Ongoing (Indefinite) |
Country | Agencies & Funds | Trainings: Description & Transformative Impacts | Links | Status |
Multi-country | OECD | 1. Transformative Innovation Policy TIP Conference 2022. · Please see TIPC training “2”. | Finished | |
Multi-country | EU | 1. ETIN Transformative Innovation Action Forum 2024. · The European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) and Joint Research Centre of European Commission (JRC) partnered with UNECE ETIN, who hosted ETIN Action Forum 2024 where experts from Europe, SouthernCaucasus, WesternBalkans, and CentralAsia came together to exchange ideas and explore pathways to transformative innovation. · JRC and ETIN share a vision of fostering transformative innovation through systemic approaches, targeting the intersection of innovation, investment, and implementation. The JRC's place-based approach to innovation highlights the importance of addressing regional challenges with coordinated policies that respond to local needs—an approach that aligns well with UNECE's focus on innovation ecosystems and sustainable development. · EIT acts as a hub of innovation that fosters the development of various innovation communities across key sectors. This community-driven model aligns with ETIN focus on systemic innovation and collaborative problem-solving for societal challenges. EIT’s bottom-up approach through its Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs), complements ETIN’s goal of enabling transformative innovation ecosystems. Both organizations focus on bringing together diverse stakeholders to address complex issues, ensuring that innovation emerges through collaboration, education, and business creation. 2. Preparatory Action (2024-2026) · Please see EU projects “2”. 3. Transformative innovation for climate resilience · Please see EU projects “3”. | Ongoing (Indefinite) |
Country | Agencies & Funds | Projects: Description & Transformative Impacts | Links | Status |
Germany | PtJ- Project Management Jülich
| · A leading German project management agency specializing in research and innovation. With a strong focus on public sector clients, they offer a comprehensive range of services including funding program development, implementation, and evaluation. Leveraging their extensive experience and expertise, they support clients in achieving their funding policy objectives at national and European levels. Their services cover the entire innovation chain, from basic research to market entry, and they contribute to knowledge transfer and societal impact. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Innovation Fund at Charité | · A German government initiative aimed at promoting innovative projects in the healthcare sector. Charité, a leading medical research institution, has been actively involved in the fund since 2017, leading numerous projects focused on improving care service provision and conducting health service research. The fund provides significant funding to support the development of innovative care models and evidence-based solutions for the healthcare system. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
KMU-innovativ | · German government funding program designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in conducting cutting-edge research and development. By simplifying the application and approval process, KMU-innovativ aims to provide SMEs with the resources they need to develop innovative products and processes, ensuring their competitiveness in the market. The program focuses on key technology fields such as bioeconomy, biomedicine, electronics, energy efficiency, and medical technology. | Ongoing (Since 2007) | ||
ZIM (Central Innovation Program for SMEs) | · A German funding program that is specifically designed to support SMEs in the development of innovative products, processes or services. ZIM enables SMEs to implement innovative projects together with research institutions or other companies. Particularly forward-looking ideas are supported that have the potential to open up new markets and strengthen the competitiveness of the German economy. The program is characterized by uncomplicated application, flexible project forms and the possibility of international cooperation. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Go-inno Innovation Vouchers | · A German government program designed to support SMEs in developing innovative products and processes. By providing funding for external consulting services, go-inno helps SMEs access expert advice and resources to drive innovation. This program aims to boost competitiveness, foster economic growth, and promote the development of innovative solutions in Germany. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
G-BA Innovation Fund | · Has undergone significant changes with the implementation of the Digital Law in Germany. The fund has become permanent and expanded its funding scope to include new forms of care. The funding procedures have been revised to include single-stage funding for short-term and long-term projects, providing more flexibility for applicants. Additionally, the fund has increased its annual funding amount and removed certain legal restrictions, making it easier for institutions to access funding and implement innovative care approaches. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF) | · Germany’s largest seed-stage investor, providing venture capital to innovative technology startups in fields such as digital economy, industrial tech, and life sciences. HTGF focuses on early-stage investments and supports startups through their growth journey with funding, networking, and strategic advice. It aims to foster high-tech innovation and accelerate the commercialization of new technologies. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
EXIST | · A program by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) that supports university-based startups and entrepreneurial projects. The program offers grants to students, graduates, and researchers who are starting their own innovative businesses, helping them turn their research into successful companies. It particularly focuses on technology-driven startups and provides mentoring alongside financial support. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
France | Bpifrance | · Acts as a national investment bank, innovation agency, export credit agency, and sovereign fund. Bpifrance offers a wide range of financial support, including loans, guarantees, and equity investments, to help businesses, especially SMEs , at all stages – from startups to established companies looking to expand internationally. They also provide various non-financial support services like training programs and business consultations. With a focus on innovation, Bpifrance actively participates in national and international initiatives to fuel French economic growth. | N/A | |
Fund for Innovation in Development (FID) | Fund for Innovation in Development (FID) · A new initiative launched by the French government to support innovative solutions that address poverty and inequalities. The FID offers flexible grants to fund projects at various stages of development, from early-stage pilots to large-scale implementation. With a focus on rigorous scientific approaches and transformative potential, the FID aims to accelerate innovative solutions in areas such as education, health, climate, and gender equality. By providing financial support and fostering collaboration among research institutions, governments, NGOs, and businesses, the FID seeks to contribute to more effective and impactful development efforts. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
French Tech 2030 | · A government program designed to support promising startups addressing major societal challenges. Selected companies receive financial and non-financial support, including assistance with fundraising, international expansion, and regulatory compliance. The program aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in France, contributing to the country's economic growth and addressing pressing social issues. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
French Tech Seed | · fund is specifically aimed at early-stage, technology-driven startups, providing equity funding to help them grow. The program targets startups with innovative solutions in areas like artificial intelligence, biotech, and deep tech, and it seeks to fill the funding gap for companies that are too early for traditional venture capital investments. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
ANR | · Provides funding for research projects with a strong emphasis on innovation and collaboration between public research institutions and businesses. It supports R&D projects in sectors such as health, environmental sustainability, and advanced technologies, helping to bring scientific research into practical, market-ready innovations. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Italy | ENEA | · ENEA or Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and the Environment - leading Italian research organization focused on energy, the environment, and new technologies. They conduct research, develop innovative technologies, and provide technical services to both public and private sectors. ENEA plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development and supporting the competitiveness of Italian businesses through their work in areas such as renewable energy, nuclear technology, and advanced materials. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
CDP Venture Capital SGR | · CDP Venture Capital SGR or Fondo Nazionale Innovazione (National Innovation Fund) - is a government-backed venture capital fund that supports Italian startups and SMEs in strategic sectors. Through direct and indirect investments, the fund provides capital at various stages of a company's growth cycle, fostering innovation and economic development in Italy. The fund invests in companies across various sectors, including deep tech, blockchain, and healthcare, with a focus on supporting startups with high growth potential. | Finished | ||
Spain | The Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI) | The Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI) · Spanish government agency that supports technological innovation and development in Spanish companies. CDTI provides financial assistance, facilitates access to funding, and promotes international collaboration in research and development projects. With a focus on market-oriented technology development, CDTI plays a crucial role in driving innovation and competitiveness in the Spanish industrial sector. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
ENISA | · Offers financing to Spanish startups and SMEs through participative loans, designed to support businesses with innovative business models or disruptive ideas. It has different funding lines tailored to young entrepreneurs, fast-growing businesses, and innovative projects, providing early-stage and growth funding without requiring personal guarantees. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
· A public entity that focuses on promoting digital transformation and innovation in Spain, particularly in the ICT sector. It provides grants and technical support to businesses and public institutions seeking to digitalize their operations, adopt new technologies, or create innovative digital services. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |||
AXIS | · The venture capital arm of ICO, Spain’s state-owned bank. It manages several funds, including Fond-ICO, which invest in innovative projects and startups. AXIS provides equity, quasi-equity, and venture capital financing, helping early-stage companies scale their operations and access international markets. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Portugal | ANI | · Portuguese National Innovation Agency, dedicated to promoting knowledge transfer and fostering innovation. Through its various activities, ANI supports research and development, international collaboration, and technology-based entrepreneurship. By providing funding, facilitating partnerships, and promoting a favorable innovation ecosystem, ANI plays a crucial role in driving competitiveness in Portugal. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Social Innovation Fund (SIF) | · Portuguese government initiative that supports social entrepreneurship and innovation. By providing financial instruments like debt financing and equity co-investment, the SIF helps social sector organizations and SMEs implement innovative solutions to address societal challenges. The fund aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and aims to foster a more inclusive and sustainable economy. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Sustainable Innovation Fund | · Portuguese ESG investment fund that supports innovative companies with a strong research and development component. Aligned with the EU Taxonomy and EIB sustainability framework, the fund invests in companies that demonstrate a commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. By actively monitoring and promoting best practices, the fund helps investees build resilience, attract talent, and create long-term values. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
The UK | Innovate UK | · The UK's national innovation agency, dedicated to supporting technology-enabled innovation. They provide funding, expertise, and networking opportunities to help businesses develop and commercialize innovative products and services. Through programs like Technology and Innovation Centers, Collaborative R&D Competitions, and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, Innovate UK fosters collaboration between businesses, academia, and government to drive innovation in the UK. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Global Innovation Fund (GIF) | · A global organization, with HQ in London and Washington D.C, that invests in innovative solutions to address poverty and inequality. They support projects that have the potential to scale up and improve the lives of the world's poorest people. By providing grants and risk capital, GIF encourages the development and testing of new products, services, and policies that are more effective and cost-efficient than existing approaches. GIF seeks out innovative ideas from various sources, including for-profit firms, non-profits, researchers, and government agencies, to identify and fund solutions with the greatest potential for impact. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Sustainable Innovation Fund | Innovate UK's Sustainable Innovation Fund · Played vital role in supporting economic recovery and sustainability following the COVID-19 pandemic. By funding innovative projects across various sectors, the program promoted biodiversity, climate action, and inclusive growth. Through its support services, Innovate UK Business Connect helped funded projects maximize their impact and build stronger innovation ecosystems. The Sustainable Innovation Fund provided a lifeline for businesses during a challenging time, contributing to the UK's efforts towards a more sustainable and innovative economy. The operation still continues till nowadays | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Innovation & Science Seed Fund | The UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund · Government-backed fund that supports early-stage, high-potential startups emerging from UK research institutions. By providing funding and commercial expertise, the fund helps these businesses develop their innovations and create jobs. With a focus on supporting groundbreaking ideas and addressing complex challenges, the UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund plays a crucial role in fostering innovation in the UK. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
The Netherlands | The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) | The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) · Government agency that supports entrepreneurs in the Netherlands and abroad. They focus on sustainability, agriculture, innovation, and international business. By providing funding, expertise, and connections, RVO.nl helps entrepreneurs develop new ideas, find partners, and navigate regulations. Their mission is to empower entrepreneurs and strengthen their position in the market, ultimately contributing to economic growth and development. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Seed Capital Scheme | · Provides venture capital to innovative startups in technology and creative industries by matching private investments with government funding. This program enables startups to access the necessary financial resources to grow, while also attracting private investors to the innovation ecosystem. It is focused on supporting companies in their early stages of growth. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
The Dutch Good Growth Fund (DGGF) | The Dutch Good Growth Fund (DGGF) · Helps Dutch entrepreneurs expand their businesses internationally, particularly in developing markets. The fund provides financing options, including loans and guarantees, to support businesses that promote sustainable and innovative development abroad, making it easier for Dutch companies to enter new markets and scale their operations. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Innovation Credit | · Government-backed loan program aimed at financing high-risk, innovative projects in the fields of technical innovation and life sciences. The loan covers a portion of the project’s costs, reducing financial risks for businesses that are developing groundbreaking technologies. This fund is ideal for startups and SMEs working on early-stage innovations that require significant R&D investment. | Ongoing (Until 1 December 2024) | ||
Sweden | The Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems (VINNOVA) | The Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems (VINNOVA) · Government agency that funds research, supporting networks, and collaborating with industry and academia, VINNOVA aims to make Sweden a leading research nation and increase its competitiveness. They focus on key areas such as information technology, biotechnology, and sustainable development, while also supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and international cooperation. Through their efforts, VINNOVA contributes to Sweden's innovation ecosystem and its ability to compete in the global market. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Almi Invest | · Sweden’s most active investor in early-stage startups, focusing on companies with scalable and innovative business models. It provides venture capital for startups in sectors like technology, life sciences, and cleantech. In addition to financial investment, Almi offers advisory services to help startups grow and develop, making it a crucial partner for Swedish entrepreneurs. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Industrifonden | · Venture capital firm that invests in Swedish startups and scale-ups with high growth potential, particularly in the technology and life sciences sectors. It focuses on companies with innovative solutions and strong market potential, offering both capital and strategic support. Industrifonden plays a key role in Sweden’s startup ecosystem, fostering the growth of disruptive technologies and business models. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Impact Innovation | · Swedish government initiative aimed at accelerating the transition to a sustainable society. Through a collaborative approach involving businesses, public institutions, academia, and civil society, the program will support innovative projects in areas such as sustainable industry, resource management, public sector reform, and sustainable infrastructure. With significant government funding and a focus on systems-thinking and cross-sector collaboration, Impact Innovation aims to position Sweden as a leader in the green transition and strengthen its international competitiveness. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Finland | Business Finland | · Finnish government agency that supports innovation, internationalization, and investment. They provide funding, expertise, and networking opportunities to help businesses develop new technologies, access global markets, and attract foreign investment. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Sitra | · Finnish organization that promotes sustainable well-being through its projects, trials, and research. They collaborate with various sectors to implement innovative solutions and explore new approaches to social change. While Sitra does not conduct its own research, they occasionally provide funds for studies and publications that contribute to their work in areas such as sustainability, fair data, and democracy. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Finnish Industry Investment (Tesi) | Finnish Industry Investment (Tesi) · State-owned investment company that promotes growth and internationalization of Finnish companies. Tesi invests in startups, growth-stage companies, and venture capital funds, focusing on businesses with innovative products or services. It aims to foster sustainable growth by helping Finnish companies scale, access new markets, and drive innovation across various industries. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
Norway | Innovation Norway | · Norwegian government agency that provides financial support, advisory services, and networking opportunities to businesses and clusters. By supporting companies in developing their innovative capabilities and exploring global markets, Innovation Norway aims to contribute to the economic development and growth of Norway. · The Humanitarian Innovation Programme · Norway’s flagship effort supporting humanitarian innovation, anchored in the Ministry of Foreign Affair’s humanitarian strategy. Since 2018, the Programme has supported 58 innovation projects and taken a leading position in facilitating innovation partnerships across the humanitarian and private sector. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | |
Investinor | · State-owned investment company that provides venture capital to innovative Norwegian startups and growth-stage companies. It invests in sectors like technology, life sciences, and renewable energy, offering both equity investments and strategic guidance. Investinor focuses on companies with high growth potential and sustainable business models. | Ongoing (Indefinite) | ||
SkatteFUNN | · Government-backed tax incentive program that allows Norwegian companies to claim tax deductions for expenses related to R&D. The program is designed to stimulate innovation by making it more financially feasible for companies to invest in research and development, regardless of the industry. Both small and large companies can benefit from the scheme. | Ongoing (Indefinite) |
Disclaimer:
The draft document provided is intended to serve as a guide and should not be considered exhaustive. Users are encouraged to consult additional sources and expert opinions to address specific concerns or needs. Furthermore, this document will be updated based on your feedback and comments to ensure it remains relevant and up-to-date.