I3 Instrument Support Facility virtual event: “How to engage managing authorities in I3 Instrument projects?”

The I3 Instrument, supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), is designed to strengthen cooperation among regions and unlock new investment opportunities that connect innovation ecosystems across Europe. Effective participation of ERDF and S3 Managing Authorities (MAs) is key to ensuring that I3 Instrument projects deliver long-term regional impact and align with smart specialisation priorities.

In the framework of the I3 Instrument Support Facility, a dedicated Discussion Group brought together ERDF Managing Authorities and S3 Agencies to explore how to enhance MA engagement in I3 Instrument projects. The group’s reflections resulted in seven practical recommendations to help regions move from strategic intent to effective implementation:

Clarify roles and responsibilities of Managing Authorities throughout the project lifecycle to ensure coherent and sustained engagement.Promote early involvement of MAs in project co-creation to align I3 Instrument initiatives with S3 priorities and regional strategies.Raise mutual awareness between MAs, S3 Units, and project partners to build shared understanding of the I3 Instrument’s opportunities.Strengthen capacities and skills for interregional collaboration, with particular attention to less-developed regions.Preserve institutional memory within MAs to maintain continuity and knowledge across funding cycles.Explore a “Seal of Excellence” approach to recognise high-quality project proposals and enable funding synergies.Embed forward-looking perspectives in regional and interregional strategies to ensure sustainable cooperation.

This outreach session will present the policy recommendations of the Discussion Group and share hands-on solutions to common challenges faced by Managing Authorities in I3 Instrument engagement. Participants will:

Discover practical ways to strengthen the role of Managing Authorities as co-drivers of I3 Instrument investments.Explore real examples where MAs have moved from “letter-signers” to active partners in project design and funding decisions.Exchange ideas and identify needs for the next cycle of I3 Instrument Discussion Groups in 2026.

Interactive tools and open discussion segments will facilitate knowledge sharing and help build a stronger community of practice among regional authorities driving interregional innovation across Europe.