Regional Innovation Valleys (European Innovation Ecosystems Work Programme Call and Call for Expression of Interest) Gap Analysis Report

"The Regional Innovation Valleys (RIV) initiative is a flagship action under the New European Innovation Agenda (NEIA), designed to strengthen innovation ecosystems across the European Union by fostering interregional collaboration and accelerating the deployment of innovation. The initiative supports partnerships between regions with varying levels of innovation performance to address key EU challenges such as energy resilience, food security, digital transformation, healthcare, and circularity.A total of 146 regions have been designated as RIVs through three mechanisms: a Call for Expression of Interest (CEI), the European Innovation Ecosystems (EIE) and the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3). The political commitment for the initiative totals €170 million, with initial funding of €116 million distributed through EIE and I3 calls.This Gap Analysis aims to (i) identify the motivations and obstacles influencing regional participation in RIV calls, particularly CEI and EIE; and (ii) provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance future calls and stimulate more effective interregional collaboration.To address these objectives, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative data from 30 regions (via interviews and focus groups) with survey responses from 89 regions across the EU and Horizon Europe Associated Countries. The analysis revealed four critical areas influencing regional participation. These refer to co-funding requirements, collaboration patterns, the RIV label and thematic focus areas. Based on these findings, the report proposes several policy recommendations, including simplifying co-funding mechanisms, enhancing matchmaking and capacity-building efforts, providing clearer guidance on the RIV label’s value, and improving alignment and continuity of thematic areas. By addressing these gaps, the RIV initiative can more effectively fulfil its dual mission of boosting innovation and reducing regional disparities across Europe."