The CI Hub project is an innovative initiative supported by the Interreg Danube Region Programme and co-funded by the European Union.
CI Hub aims to strengthen the innovation capacity by addressing innovation gaps and enhancing cooperation across borders. The project supports the development of resilient regional ecosystems that enable the adoption of circular economy principles.
At the heart of the project is the Circular Transition Accelerator Programme, which combines a user-centred innovation approach with digital technologies. The programme provides tailored support services to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) implement circular business models across seven strategic industrial sectors. Through real-life testing environments and open innovation processes, businesses collaborate with academia, public authorities, research organisations and industry experts to validate and scale innovative circular solutions.
To ensure businesses receive comprehensive support, CI Hub has developed a strong ecosystem of experts, technology providers, demonstration centres and innovation facilitators. These resources are brought together through the B2 Green Hub, a transnational digital platform created in collaboration with six additional EU-funded projects. The platform offers SMEs easy access to tools, services, funding opportunities, expert guidance and cross-border partnerships, simplifying their journey towards green and digital transformation.
The project has already established an extensive network including 66 solution providers, 51 demonstration centres, 41 business experts, 33 digital experts, 24 green transition experts and 26 innovation facilitators, while making available 104 grants, projects and events for participating businesses.
CI Hub’s long-term impact is ensured through a validated digital platform, a dedicated circular economy toolbox, structured training programmes, a joint transnational deployment strategy and regional action plans. Together, these outputs provide a sustainable framework for accelerating circular innovation, strengthening regional competitiveness and supporting SMEs in building a greener, smarter and more resilient future across the Danube Region.
