IBW/ERDF & JTF 2021–2027

Priority 1: Innovation and Intelligent Specialization
The measure “Expansion of Research and Technology Infrastructure” promotes nationwide investments in laboratories, pilot plants, and ICT facilities of research institutions as well as technology centers through the ERDF & JTF program. The aim is to expand capacities in the context of national and regional Smart Specialisation Strategies. In parallel, “Strengthening Research and Transfer Competences” supports cooperative research and innovation projects between universities, universities of applied sciences, non-university research institutions, and companies. Targeted funding rates of 50% for grants and the recognition of non-repayable funds also make high-risk projects attractive. Through “Shaping Regional Innovation Ecosystems,” cluster, platform, and start-up services are created that contribute to the development of digital and green business models. Program elements such as thematic networking measures reflect the complementary priorities of digitization and circular economy. Interregional cooperation within ETC programs as well as under the Vanguard Initiative ensures European connectivity. The use of simplified cost options and flat-rate models minimizes administrative effort to achieve broader participation of SMEs.

Target Groups and Indicators
Beneficiaries are research institutions, universities, technology centers, as well as SMEs in more developed regions and in JTF areas. Funded are capital investments, supra-company research projects, transfer and consulting services, start-up centers, and innovation cluster management. The key output indicators include 27 ERDF-funded companies, 655 researchers active in R&D, and investment equipment amounting to €41.9 million. Outcome indicators such as 197 jobs created in the research sector and 245 SME innovations measure the impact. The program interventions comply with the EU framework regulation on thematic concentration and promote Political Objective 1 (“Innovation Union”). They contribute to increasing research and innovation capacities, improving networking between science and industry, and sustainably enhancing productivity at the Austrian business location.