REGIOFLASH: latest news on Regional and Urban Policy

Communities across Europe are leading the transition to renewable energy with support from Communities for Climate (C4C). From solar-powered cooperatives to sustainable mobility, local projects are tackling climate challenges and shaping a greener future.

The European Commission has adopted the new Work Programme for the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument for 2025-2027, allocating €176 million. The next calls are planned to open in May and October 2025

The Port of Clean Energy, a state-of-the-art waste-to-energy plant in Gdańsk, officially opened on 24 March 2025 marking a major milestone for sustainable waste management in the Pomeranian region. The project has received over €62 million from the EU’s Cohesion Fund.

On March 21, the Grand Large in Tournai takes a significant step forward with the official inauguration of La Marina, a more than €3 million project co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Walloon Region. This project transforms the waterfront into a vibrant destination, enhancing the region’s appeal and reinforcing its place on the European tourism map.

The second Harnessing Talent Platform (HTP) high-level event titled “Talent Booster Mechanism in Action – Results and ways forward” was held on 18 March in Brussels. At the core of the event was the support provided by the European Commission to Member States, regions, and cities through the 8 Pillars of the Talent Booster Mechanism (TBM).

On Wednesday 19 March the Commission and the High Representative have presented a White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030. The Commission has also presented, as part of the ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030, an ambitious defence package providing financial levers to EU Member States to drive an investment surge in defence capabilities.

"With today’s proposal for a Savings and Investment Union we are achieving a double win. Households will have more and safer opportunities to invest in capital markets and increase their wealth. At the same time, businesses will have easier access to capital to innovate, grow and create good jobs in Europe." - Ursula von der Leyen

In the 2014-2020 period, one out of four Interreg projects in the Mediterranean basin has focused on tourism and culture, engaging over 2.000 partners.