UPTEC boosts EU project with €1.5 million for tourism, media and creativity SMEs

Through the ST3ER project, the European Commission will support more than 200 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism, media and creativity sectors with €1.5 million. The initiative, promoted in Portugal by UPTEC – Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto, will boost projects that promote the digital and green transition in five European countries.

Applications can be submitted individually or collaboratively. SMEs can submit individual projects in the green and digital areas, with a maximum duration of 12 months,which will have access to €25,000 euros, specialised mentoring, and participation in events, workshops, and training. For collaborative projects, i.e. involving two and four SMEs, support includes €30,000 euros, specialised mentoring, and access to events, workshops, and training.

Projects can integrate digital solutions — artificial intelligence, augmented reality, IoT, and blockchain, among others — and green solutions, such as circular economy, recycling, sustainable packaging, sustainable logistics, and other sustainability-related areas.

To be eligible, SMEs of any age must operate in one of the NACE codes defined by the European Commission. A lead applicant must be designated in collaborative projects to maintain the link with the European Commission.

Applications are open until 30 September 2024 via the official ST3ER project website. This initiative aims to boost the tourism sector’s competitiveness and sustainability by encouraging the adoption of digital technologies and sustainable environmental practices and fostering cooperation between companies and institutions in the partner countries.