Interreg Atlantic Area is a European funding programme that supports cooperation between Atlantic regions, focussing on shared challenges and opportunities in areas like innovation, sustainability, and protecting cultural and natural heritage.

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Aims & Objectives

The programme helps regions work together to:

• find solutions to shared regional challenges
• support sustainable regional development
• promote innovation, resource efficiency, and the preservation of natural and cultural assets

Funding Priorities for 2021–2027

Projects can focus on one or more of the following five priorities:

1. Stimulating Innovation & Competitiveness
   Helping regions build strong, innovative economies.
2. Fostering Resource Efficiency
   Promoting circular economy practices and sustainable resource use.
3. Strengthening Resilience to Risks
   Improving how regions prepare for and respond to natural, climate-related, and human-made risks.
4. Enhancing Biodiversity & Cultural Heritage
   Protecting natural environments and promoting shared cultural assets.
5. Technical Assistance
   Supporting the smooth delivery and administration of the programme.

The Interreg Atlantic Area includes five participating countries: France, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and the UK (as a self-financed, associated partner.)

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‍What does it support?

Interreg Atlantic Area funds projects in the following areas:

• Innovation & Competitiveness
• Efficient Use of Resources
• Risk Management (climate, natural, or human-origin)
• Biodiversity and Ecosystem Protection
• Natural and Cultural Heritage

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Who can apply?

• Local and regional public authorities
• Business support organisations
• Social enterprises and third sector bodies
• Universities and higher education institutions
• Research and innovation centres
• Environmental agencies
• Education and training providers
• Community and civil society organisations

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‍Which regions are eligible?

The programme covers the Atlantic coastal regions of four countries:

Ireland (all regions)

• Northern and Western
• Southern
• Eastern and Midland

Portugal

• Norte, Algarve, Centro, Lisboa, Alentejo
• Azores and Madeira (Autonomous Regions)

Spain

• País Vasco, Navarra, La Rioja, Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia, Andalucía, Canary Islands

France

• Normandy, Pays de la Loire, Brittany, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

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Note: UK partners can participate in Interreg Atlantic Area projects, but as associated partners with their own financing.

Partnership requirement: Projects must involve partners from at least two different countries within the Atlantic Area.

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Budget

The programme has a total budget of €113 million for 2021-2027.

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Project Example

Free LitterAT

An Taisce is a partner in the Interreg Atlantic Area-fundd project “Free LitterAT.” Delivered by 14 partners in 4 EU countries, the Free Litter AT project’s goal is to protect the variety of life in the ocean by coming up with new and creative ways to stop and reduce marine litter. Visit the project website to learn more.

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‍National Contact Point in Ireland

The Northern & Western Regional Assembly is the Irish National Contact Point for Interreg Atlantic Area. Contact Dr Travis O Doherty at todoherty@nwra.ie.

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Open Calls

Find current open calls for INTERREG Atlantic Area.

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Want to learn more?

Interreg Atlantic Area official website

Atlantic Connection Hub

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Social Media

Facebook: Interreg Atlantic Area

Facebook: Northern & Western Regional Assembly

X: Interreg Atlantic Area

X: Northern & Western Regional Assembly

LinkedIn: Interreg Atlantic Area