The European Commission’s Join Research Centre (JRC) has officially launched the EU Preparatory Action “Innovation for place-based transformation”, a three-year initiative (2024-2026) with the goal of promoting partnerships and implement innovation policies at all levels of governance. The initiative supports the green and digital transition, by translating ambitious innovation policies into concrete local actions across Europe.
Following a Call for Expression in October 2025, more than 240 territories, including Member States, third associated countries, regions and cities, joined the initiative. The project officially kicked off on April 29, 2025 with a high level event.
A place-based approach to innovation
The participating territories will work hand in hand with the European Commission and the JRC experts to tackle pressing challenges that range from digital resilience and energy policies to food security and circular economy. By adapting the solutions to local needs, the EU Preparatory Action initiative ensures that innovation leads to practical actions across different policy fields, tackling societal issues while enhancing competitiveness.
To support the process, the participants have been divided into three groups:
- Experimentation – over 9-12 months participants will develop an Experimentation Journey, developing challenge-based innovation projects with policy outcomes, supported by thematic experts.
- Capacity Building – participants will have the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills, as well as to collaborate and exchange with peers on the implementation of policies at a local level.
- Awareness raising – participants will gain access to resources, materials and to the new podcast “Territories in ACTION: Where it all happens”, which will delve into territories challenges and success stories.
This initiative will, not only bring together different territories to reflect and encourage collaboration for systemic transformation, but also raise awareness, highlighting both the diversity and shared challenges of Europe’s territories. The solutions and lessons will contribute to future EU-level policy and legislative initiatives, such as the Innovation Act.