We invite you to join the INNOVABLUE Challenge competition focused on developing innovative solutions for sustainably managing marine, river and lake environments, as well as strengthening the blue economy sector in the ADRION region. The competition is organized in the framework of the project INNOVABLUE.
The INNOVABLUE Project - Network for innovation in developing solutions and technologies for sustainable blue economy in the Adrion region, with a total value of EUR 1,703,377.52, is funded by Interreg IPA ADRION. It aims to promote sustainable blue economy in the Adrion region by creating a dynamic innovation network. The project connects two key communities, the BlueAIR Innovation Community and the Innovamare Digital Innovation Hub, with the goal of strengthening existing initiatives and ensuring their long-term sustainability.
Who can apply?
The call is open to: students, researchers, startup teams, technology developers, and multidisciplinary teams with innovative solutions. The condition is that the team has at least 3 members, and a total of 30 teams will be selected (15 per hackathon).
Thematic areas
1. Smart monitoring systems and digital tools for blue ecosystems and SMEs
2. Blue biotechnology for environmental health and sustainability
What participants get?
Participants will get the opportunity to: work on real market challenges, collaborate with SMEs and relevant stakeholders, participate in international hackathons, get mentorship and gain visibility among industry and investors.
For teams selected for the hackathon, accommodation costs are covered by the Innovablue project.
Application deadline: May 15, 2026 (12:00)
Results to be published: May 2026.
Hackathons:
· Skopje, North Macedonia: June 30 - July 2, 2026
· Šibenik, Croatia: September 15 - 17, 2026 (tbc)
Prizes
After the hackathon, 5 Blue Champions teams will be selected to receive support packages worth €5,000 and participate in a mentorship program.
Application
Applications are submitted via an online form (link below), and teams need to provide: team description, concept solution description, technological readiness level (minimum TRL 3-4), commercialization plan after the hackathon, and preferred hackathon location (Skopje or Šibenik).
LINK TO APPLY:
https://mairos.org/news/innovablue-challenge-open-call-for-blue-innovation-teams/
Competition rules and promotional materials are attached.
