Develop Data Exchange

Building institutional capacity and cooperation to Develop Data Exchange ecosystem in Danuberegion with the aim of supporting and coordinate better absorption rate of EU funds and Invest EU. (DevelopDataExchange), we will reply to the Action Plan of EUSDR, Priority area (PA) 10:

• Action 3: To review bottlenecks relating to the low absorption rate of EU funds and Invest EU
• Action 4: To support better coordination of funding

The project “DevelopDataExchange” is of paramount importance for the sustainable development and prosperity of the Danube Region. It addresses the pressing need for efficient absorption of EU funds, which presents a significant opportunity for the region to tackle challenges, drive innovation, and foster economic growth. However, achieving optimal absorption entails overcoming various barriers and ensuring that funds are utilized efficiently and effectively.

The project recognizes the importance of cooperation among stakeholders across sectors, including government agencies, local administrations, businesses, research institutions, and civil society organizations. By leveraging collective expertise and resources, the project aims to tackle complex regional challenges such as infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion.

Key challenges identified include limited participation in European and international calls for funding, as well as a lack of collaboration among various sectors in the Danube Region. These challenges hinder the region’s ability to address issues holistically and leverage innovative solutions. The project’s main goal is to establish collaboration among stakeholders and identify potential consortia to participate in various European funding calls related in Data Exchange. The sectors within Data Exchange used, will be choosed during SO1 and SO4 of DevelopDataExchange. Expected results include the formation of consortia for regional, national, and European funds, thus increasing participation in calls for proposals.

Several challenges hinder the efficient absorption of EU funds within the Danube Region. Limited participation in European and international calls, lack of cooperation among sectors, and historical fragmentation are among the key challenges addressed by the project. The lack of clear rules, legislation, and technological readiness further complicates the exchange of data without losing connectivity between states.

To overcome these challenges, the project advocates for prioritizing one of four key areas and channeling efforts towards it. This necessitates collective discussion among the Danube region states to address gaps and work together on major European projects. Additionally, establishing mechanisms for communication and coordination among stakeholders is crucial for maximizing the impact of EU-funded projects and driving sustainable development.

In terms of relevance to wider strategies and policies, the project aligns with Priority Area 10 (PA10) of the EU Danube Strategy, which focuses on institutional capacity and cooperation. By strengthening institutional capacities, enhancing coordination, and fostering collaboration, the project contributes to achieving the objectives outlined in PA10 and other relevant EU policies and strategies. Collaboration with the EuroAccess MacroRegion initiative further enhances participation from the Danube region in European and international challenges.

Furthermore, the project aligns with the European Strategy for Data, which aims to create a single market for data to ensure Europe’s global competitiveness and data sovereignty. By promoting data exchange and collaboration, the project contributes to the implementation of the European Data Strategy and Digital Decade goals.

The geographical scope of the project includes the Danube Region, with potential partners ranging from infrastructure and service providers to interest groups, business support organizations, and higher education and research institutions. The involvement of diverse stakeholders is essential for maximizing the impact of EU-funded initiatives and fostering sustainable regional development.

Through collaboration and building institutional capacities, the project aims to create a conducive environment for enhanced participation, collaboration, and innovation within the Danube region in the topic of Data Exchange (Potential sectors will be choosed by collective brainstorming SO4 and activities in SO1). By addressing barriers to funding absorption and facilitating transnational project implementation in several sectorial Data Exchange, the project seeks to propel the region towards sustainable growth and development while maximizing the impact of EU funds and Invest EU resources.

The activities will be realised in Danube region.

Mobility sector and related sectors to mobility in this project (DevelopDataExchange) will not be choosed, because the mobility and related sectors are in other proposal of SMF.