### finding new ways to accelerate the deployment of clean technologies and solutions for the decarbonisation of the european economy requires also increased demand for innovation . this can be stimulated through the empowerment of citizens as well as socio - economic and public sector innovation and will lead to approaches broader than technology - driven innovation . socio - economic research covering inter alia user needs and patterns , foresight activities , environmental , economic , social and behavioural aspects , business cases and models and pre - normative research for standard setting , will also facilitate actions fostering regulatory , financing and social innovation , skills , as well as engagement and empowerment of market players and consumers . ### finding new ways to accelerate the deployment of clean technologies and solutions for the decarbonisation of the european economy requires also increased demand for innovation . this can be stimulated through the empowerment of citizens as well as socio - economic and public sector innovation and will lead to approaches broader than technology - driven innovation . socio - economic research covering inter alia user needs and patterns , foresight activities , environmental , economic , social and behavioural aspects , business cases and models and pre - normative research for standard setting , will also facilitate actions fostering regulatory , financing and social innovation , skills , as well as engagement and empowerment of all market players , including small and medium ones , and consumers .


### activities under this cluster contribute in particular to the goals of the energy union , as well as to those of the digital single market , the jobs , growth and investment agenda , the strengthening of the eu as a global actor , the new eu industrial policy strategy , the circular economy , the raw materials initiative , the security union and the urban agenda , as well as the common agricultural policy of the eu as well as eu legal provisions to reduce noise and air pollution . ### activities under this cluster contribute in particular to the goals of the energy union , as well as to those of the digital single market , the jobs , growth and investment agenda , the strengthening of the eu as a global actor , the new eu industrial policy strategy , the circular economy , the raw materials initiative and the urban agenda , as well as the common agricultural policy of the eu as well as eu legal provisions to reduce noise and air pollution .


### the eu aims to be world leader in affordable , secure and sustainable energy technologies improving its competitiveness in global value chains and its position in growth markets . diverse climatic , geographical , environmental and socio - economic conditions in the eu as well as the need to ensure energy security and access to raw materials , dictate a broad portfolio of energy solutions , including of non - technical nature . as regards renewable energy technologies , costs need to decrease further , performance must improve , integration into the energy system must be improved and breakthrough technologies need to be developed . as regards fossil fuels , decarbonising their usage will be essential to meet the climate objectives . ### the eu aims to be world leader in affordable , secure and sustainable energy technologies to the benefit of its citizens and the environment . diverse climatic , geographical , environmental and socio - economic conditions in the eu as well as the need to ensure energy security and access to raw materials , dictate a broad portfolio of energy solutions , including of non - technical nature . as regards renewable energy technologies , integration into the energy system must be improved and breakthrough technologies need to be developed .


### –renewable energy technologies and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable transport fuels and intermediate carriers , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ; ### –reliable renewable energy technologies and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable transport fuels and intermediate carriers , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ;


### –renewable energy technologies and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable transport fuels and intermediate carriers , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ; ### –renewable energy technologies , including marine energy and its different sub - sectors and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable transport fuels and intermediate carriers , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ;


### the expected growth of variable electricity production and shift towards more electric heating , cooling and transport dictates the need for new approaches to manage energy grids . next to decarbonisation , the goal is to ensure energy affordability , security and stability of supply , achieved through investments in innovative network infrastructure technologies and innovative system management . energy storage in different forms will play a key role in providing services to the grid , also improving and reinforcing network capacities . exploiting synergies between different networks and actors will be crucial for enabling the smart , integrated operation of the relevant infrastructures . ### the expected growth of variable electricity production and shift towards more electric heating , cooling and transport dictates the need for new approaches to manage energy grids and supports the decentralised solutions such as local energy communities and self - consumption . next to decarbonisation , the goal is to ensure energy affordability , security of supply , achieved through investments in innovative network infrastructure technologies and innovative system management . energy storage in different forms will play a key role in providing services to the grid , also improving and reinforcing network capacities . exploiting synergies between different networks and actors will be crucial for enabling the smart , integrated operation of the relevant infrastructures .


### –vehicle / vessel / aircraft concepts and designs , including their spare parts , using improved materials and structures , efficiency , energy storage and recovery , safety and security features with less environment and health impact . ### –vehicle / vessel / aircraft concepts and designs , as the shipyard 4 . 0 . , including their spare parts , using improved advanced materials and structures , advanced security systems against piracy and modular elements including the associated industrial processes , efficiency , energy storage and recovery , safety and security features with less environment and health impact


### massive , concentrated and decentralised storage solutions for the energy system will increase efficiency , flexibility , technology independence and accessibility as well as the security of supply . low - emission , decarbonised transport will require a growing share of electrical and / or other alternatively fuelled vehicles , with better - performing and cheaper , recyclable and reusable batteries , as well as local provision of synthetic / renewable fuels such as hydrogen and innovative solutions for on - site storage . ### concentrated and decentralised storage solutions for the energy system will increase efficiency , flexibility , technology independence and accessibility as well as the security of supply . low - emission , decarbonised transport will require a growing share of electrical and / or other alternatively fuelled vehicles , with better - performing and cheaper , recyclable and reusable batteries , as well as local provision of synthetic / renewable fuels such as hydrogen and innovative solutions for on - site storage .


### meeting the goals of sustainable development , guaranteeing the production and consumption of safe and healthy food , promoting sustainable practices in agriculture , aquaculture , fisheries and forestry , ensuring access to clean water , soil and air for all , cleaning up the seas and oceans , preserving and restoring the planet’s vital natural systems and environment requires that we harness the potential of research and innovation . but the pathways for the transition to sustainability and ways to overcome resilient barriers are hardly understood . making the transition to sustainable consumption and production and restoring planetary health requires investing in technologies , new business models , and social and environmental innovation . this creates new opportunities for a sustainable , resilient , innovative and responsible european economy , boosting resource efficiency , productivity and competitiveness , and generating jobs and growth . ### meeting the goals of sustainable development , guaranteeing the production and consumption of safe and healthy food , promoting sustainable practices in agriculture , aquaculture , fisheries and forestry , ensuring access to clean water , soil and air for all , cleaning up the seas and oceans , preserving and restoring the planet’s vital natural systems and environment requires that we harness the potential of research and innovation . but the pathways for the transition to sustainability and ways to overcome resilient barriers are hardly understood . making the transition to sustainable consumption and production and restoring planetary health requires investing in technologies , new business models , and social and environmental innovation . this creates new opportunities for a sustainable , resilient , innovative and responsible european economy , boosting resource efficiency , productivity and competitiveness , and supporting the creation of quality jobs and sustainable economic and social growth .


### they will help to maintain and enhance the provision of biodiversity and secure the long - term provision of ecosystem services , climate adaptation and carbon sequestration . they will help reduce greenhouse gas and other emissions , waste and pollution from primary production , processing , consumption and other human activities . they will trigger investments , supporting the shift towards a circular economy , bioeconomy and blue economy , whilst protecting environmental health and integrity . ### they will help to maintain and enhance the provision of biodiversity and secure the long - term provision of ecosystem services , climate adaptation and carbon sequestration . they will help reduce greenhouse gas and other emissions , waste and pollution from primary production , processing , consumption and other human activities . they will trigger investments , supporting the shift towards a circular economy , bioeconomy and blue economy , whilst protecting environmental health , sustainability and integrity .


### as these challenges are complex , interlinked and global in nature , activities will follow a systemic approach , cooperating with member states and international partners , with other funding sources and with other policy initiatives . this will involve user - driven exploitation of environmental big data sources , such as those from copernicus , gnos / galileo , inspire , eosc , geoss , ceos , emodnet . ### as these challenges are complex , interlinked and global in nature , activities will follow a systemic approach , cooperating with member states and international partners , including low and middle - income countries , with other funding sources and with other policy initiatives . this will involve user - driven exploitation of environmental big data sources , such as those from copernicus , gnos / galileo , inspire , eosc , geoss , ceos , emodnet


### activities will contribute directly to the following sustainable development goals in particular : sdg 2 – zero hunger ; sd 6 - clean water and sanitation ; sdg 11 – sustainable cities and communities ; sdg 12 - responsible consumption and production ; sdg 13 – climate action ; sdg 14 – life below water ; sdg 15 - life on land . ### activities will contribute directly to the following sustainable development goals in particular : sdg 2 – zero hunger ; sd 6 - clean water and sanitation ; sdg 3 – good health and wellbeing ; sdg 11 – sustainable cities and communities ; sdg 12 - responsible consumption and production ; sdg 13 – climate action ; sdg 14 – life below water ; sdg 15 - life on land .


### –biodiversity status , ecosystem protection , climate mitigation and adaptation , food security , agriculture and forestry , land use and land use change , urban and peri - urban development , natural resources management , ocean exploitation and conservation , maritime security , and other relevant domains ; ### –biodiversity status , ecosystem protection , climate mitigation and adaptation , food security , agriculture and forestry , land use and land use change , rural , urban and peri - urban development , natural resources management , ocean exploitation and conservation , maritime security , and other relevant domains ;


### –innovations in farming at the interfaces between agriculture , aquaculture and forestry and in urban areas ; ### –innovations in farming at the interfaces between agriculture , aquaculture and forestry and in urban and rural areas ;


### –solutions for sustainable and regenerative development of cities , peri - urban areas and regions , integrating the circular economy transformation with nature - based solutions , technological , digital , social , cultural and territorial governance innovations ; ### –solutions for sustainable and regenerative development of cities , peri - urban and rural areas and regions , integrating the circular economy transformation with nature - based solutions , technological , digital , social , cultural and territorial governance innovations ;


### the jrc will contribute to the specific eu policies and commitments addressed by the five global challenges clusters , notably the eu ' s commitment to the sustainable development goals . ### the jrc will contribute to the specific eu policies and commitments addressed by the six societal challenges clusters , notably the eu ' s commitment to the sustainable development goals .


### inclusive and secure society ### inclusive society - democracy - cultural heritage - social and economic transformations - gender


### inclusive and secure society ### secure society


### digital and industry ### digital - key digital technologies - artificial intelligence and robotics - next generation internet - advanced computing and big data


### –support to energy transition , including the covenant of mayors , clean energy for eu islands , sensitive regions , and africa ; ### –support to energy transition , including local energy communities , the covenant of mayors , clean energy for eu islands , sensitive regions , and africa ;


### –assessment of climate change and potential mitigation and adaptation measures for agricultural and fisheries policies , including food security ; ### –assessment of climate change and potential mitigation and adaptation measures for agricultural , fisheries and forestry policies , including food security ;


### –monitoring and forecasting of agricultural resources in eu and neighbourhood countries ; ### –monitoring and forecasting of agricultural and forestry resources in eu and neighbourhood countries ;


### the jrc will contribute to innovation and technology transfer . . it will support the functioning of the internal market and the economic governance of the union . it will contribute to development and monitoring of policies targeting a more social and sustainable europe . it will support the eu ' s external dimension and international goals and help in promoting good governance . a well - functioning internal market with a strong economic governance and fair social system will foster innovation and competitiveness . ### the jrc will contribute to innovation and technology transfer . it will contribute to development and monitoring of policies targeting a more social and sustainable europe . it will support the eu ' s external dimension and international goals and help in promoting good governance . a well - functioning internal market with a resilient and sustainable fair social system will foster innovation , competitiveness , jobs creation , social inclusion and well - being .


### a new global wave of breakthrough innovation is coming up , one that will be based on more ' deep - tech ' technologies such as block - chain , artificial intelligence , genomics and robotics , and other technologies , which may also emerge from individual innovators and communities of citizens . they have in common that they are taking shape at the intersection between different technologies , industry sectors and scientific disciplines , offering radically new combinations of products , processes , services and business models , and have the potential to open up new markets worldwide . additional sectors such as manufacturing , financial services , transport or energy will also be impacted . ### a new global wave of breakthrough innovation is coming up , one that will be based on more ' deep - tech ' technologies such as block - chain , artificial intelligence , genomics and robotics , and other technologies , which may also emerge from individual innovators and communities of citizens . they have in common that they are taking shape at the intersection between different technologies , industry sectors , social innovation and scientific disciplines , offering radically new combinations of products , processes , services and business models , and have the potential to open up new markets worldwide . additional sectors such as manufacturing , financial services , transport or energy will also be impacted .


### europe has to ride that wave . it is well positioned as the new wave comes in ' deep - tech ' areas , such as artificial intelligence , quantum technologies , clean energy sources , where europe has some competitive advantages regarding science and knowledge , and can build on close public - private cooperation . ### europe has to ride that wave . it is well positioned as the new wave comes in ' deep - tech ' areas , such as artificial intelligence , quantum technologies , clean energy sources , where europe has some competitive advantages regarding science and knowledge , and can build on close public - public cooperation .


### based on these experiences , this pillar provides for the launch of the european innovation council , which will promote breakthrough innovation with rapid scale - up potential at global level and with dedicated types of actions and activities : ### based on these experiences , this pillar provides for the launch of the european innovation council , which will promote breakthrough innovation , as well as other types of innovation as incremental , social and non - technological , with rapid scale - up potential at global level and with dedicated types of actions and activities :


### –supporting the development of future and emerging breakthrough innovations ; ### –supporting the development of future and emerging innovations ;


### whilst the eic will directly support breakthrough innovations , the overall environment from which european innovations nurture and emerge must be further developed and enhanced : it must be a common european endeavour to support innovation all across europe , and in all dimensions and forms , including through complementary eu and national policies and resources whenever possible . hence , this pillar provides also for : ### whilst the eic will directly support innovations , the overall environment from which european innovations nurture and emerge must be further developed and enhanced : it must be a common european endeavour to support innovation all across europe , and in all dimensions and forms , including through complementary eu and national policies and resources whenever possible . hence , this pillar provides also for :


### open innovation is a vital paradigm for the eu to continue delivering prosperity to its citizens and meeting challenges of the future . implementing it requires a systemic , cross - cutting and multifaceted approach . europe ' s economic progress , social welfare and quality of life rely on its ability to boost productivity and growth , which , in turn , depends heavily on its ability to innovate . innovation is also key to solving the major challenges that lie ahead for the eu . ### open innovation is a vital paradigm for the eu to continue delivering prosperity to its citizens and meeting challenges of the future . implementing it requires a systemic , cross - cutting and multifaceted approach . europe ' s economic progress , social welfare and quality of life rely on its ability to boost productivity and sustainable growth , which , in turn , depends heavily on its ability to innovate . innovation is also key to solving the major challenges that lie ahead for the eu .


### the objective of the eic is to identify , develop and deploy breakthrough and disruptive innovations , and support the rapid scale - up of innovative firms at eu and international levels along the pathway from ideas to market . ### the objective of the eic is to identify , develop and deploy from breakthrough and disruptive innovations to incremental and social innovations , and support the rapid scale - up of innovative firms at eu and international levels along the pathway from ideas to market .


### the eic will be implemented primarily through two complementary types of action , namely the pathfinder for advanced research , for the early stages of technology development , and the accelerator for innovation and market deployment actions , including the pre - mass commercialisation stages and company growth . with the idea to offer a single one - stop shop and a single process of support , the accelerator will also award blended finance , combining grants with equity investments . it will in addition also channel access to loans provided under the investeu programme . ### the eic will be implemented primarily through two complementary types of action , namely the pathfinder for advanced research , for the early stages of technology development , and the accelerator for innovation and market deployment actions , including the pre - mass commercialisation stages and company growth . the accelerator will provide business innovation grants for innovation development and demonstration purposes , of at least 70% of the total cost of the project . with the idea to offer a single one - stop shop and a single process of support , once the grant is being executed , the accelerator will offer the possibility of blended finance , combining the grants with equity investments . it will in addition also channel access to loans and guarantees provided under the investeu programme .


### –innovations that cut across different scientific , technological fields and sectors will be encouraged ; ### –innovations that cut across different scientific , technological and social fields and sectors will be encouraged ;


### in order to be fully open to broad - sweeping explorations , opportunities of serendipity and unexpected ideas , concepts and discoveries , the pathfinder will be mainly implemented through a continuous open call for bottom - up proposals . the pathfinder will also provide for competitive challenges to develop key strategic objectives24 calling for deep - tech and radical thinking . regrouping of selected projects into thematic or objective driven portfolios will allow establishing critical mass of efforts and structuring new multidisciplinary research communities . _________________ 24 these could include topics such as artificial intelligence , quantum technologies , biocontrol or second generation digital twins , or any other topics identified in the context of the horizon europe strategic programming . ### in order to be fully open to broad - sweeping explorations , opportunities of serendipity and unexpected ideas , concepts and discoveries , the pathfinder will be mainly implemented through a continuous open call for bottom - up proposals , with 4 cut - off per year for the proper management of the evaluation and competition . the pathfinder will also provide for competitive challenges to develop key strategic objectives24 calling for deep - tech and radical thinking . other types of innovation will be also covered by the pathfinder . regrouping of selected projects into thematic or objective driven portfolios will allow establishing critical mass of efforts and structuring new multidisciplinary research communities . _________________ 24 these could include topics such as artificial intelligence , quantum technologies , biocontrol or second generation digital twins , or any other topics identified in the context of the horizon europe strategic programming .


### consequently the accelerator will provide financial support to not yet ' bankable ' or investors - attractive innovators and companies that have the ambition to develop and deploy in eu and international markets their breakthrough innovations and to scale up rapidly . for that purpose it will build on the experience from the phases 2 and 3 of horizon 2020 sme instrument and from horizon 2020 innovfin , in particular through the addition of non - grant components and the ability to support larger and longer investments . ### consequently the accelerator will provide financial support to not yet ' bankable ' or investors - attractive innovators and companies that have the ambition to develop and deploy in eu and international markets their innovations and to scale up rapidly . for that purpose it will build on the experience from the phases 2 and 3 of horizon 2020 sme instrument and from horizon 2020 innovfin , in particular through the addition of non - grant components and the ability to support larger and longer investments .


### –support for investment in equity27 or other repayable forms , so as to bridge innovation activities with effective market deployment , including scale - up , in a manner that does not crowd out private investments or distorts competition in the internal market . when relevant it will channel the innovator to access to debt financing provided by the investeu programme . _________________ 27 usually no more than 25% of the voting rights . in exceptional cases , the eu may secure the acquisition of a blocking minority to protect european interests in essential areas , e . g . cyber security . ### –support for investment in equity5 or other repayable forms , so as to bridge innovation activities with effective market deployment , including scale - up , in a manner that does not crowd out private investments or distorts competition in the internal market . when relevant it will channel the innovator to access to debt financing provided by the investeu programme .


### support will be awarded through a single process and with a single decision , providing the supported innovator with a single global commitment to financial resources covering the various stages of innovation down to market deployment including pre - mass commercialisation . the full implementation of the awarded support will be subject to milestones and review . the combination and volume of financing will be adapted to the needs of the firm , its size and stage , the nature of the technology / innovation and the length of the innovation cycle . it will cover financing needs until replacement by alternative sources of investment . ### this additional support will be awarded through a single process and with a single decision , providing the supported innovator with a single global commitment to financial resources covering the various stages of innovation down to market deployment . the full implementation of the awarded support will be subject to milestones and review . the combination and volume of financing will be adapted to the needs of the firm , its size and stage , the nature of the technology / innovation and the length of the innovation cycle . the financial instruments awarded , together with the previous grant , will not exceed the amount of five million euros .


### the accelerator will mainly operate through a continuously open and bottom - up call , targeting individual entrepreneurs , with a particular attention paid to young and to women innovators . this open and bottom - up call will be complemented by targeted support for on emerging breakthrough or disruptive technologies of potential strategic significance . proposals may also be submitted by investors , including public innovation agencies , but the support will be awarded to the company . ### the accelerator will mainly operate through a continuously open and bottom - up call , with cut - off dates , targeting individual entrepreneurs , with a particular attention paid to young and to women innovators . this open and bottom - up call will be complemented by targeted support for on emerging breakthrough or disruptive technologies of potential strategic significance .


### the accelerator will mainly operate through a continuously open and bottom - up call , targeting individual entrepreneurs , with a particular attention paid to young and to women innovators . this open and bottom - up call will be complemented by targeted support for on emerging breakthrough or disruptive technologies of potential strategic significance . proposals may also be submitted by investors , including public innovation agencies , but the support will be awarded to the company . ### the accelerator will mainly operate through a continuously open and bottom - up call , targeting individual entrepreneurs , with a particular attention paid to young and to women innovators as well as to a geographical balance . this open and bottom - up call will be complemented by targeted support for on emerging breakthrough or disruptive technologies of potential strategic significance . proposals may also be submitted by investors , including public innovation agencies , but the support will be awarded to the company .


### the accelerator will allow for fast - track take - up of innovations stemming from pathfinder - supported projects from the pathfinder , from similar member states ' advanced research programmes ' and from other pillars of the eu framework programmes28 , in order to support them to reach the market . this identification of projects supported in other pillars of horizon europe and also previous framework programmes will be based on pertinent methodologies , such as the innovation radar . _________________ 28 such as erc proof of concept , from projects supported under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , startups emerging from the kics of the european institute of innovation and technology , … including from horizon 2020 activities , particularly project selected under horizon 2020 sme phase 2 and related seal of excellence financed by member states , european partnerships . ### the accelerator will encourage applications of innovations stemming from pathfinder - supported projects from the pathfinder , from phase 1 and 2 of sme instrument for incremental innovation , from similar member states ' advanced research programmes ' and from other pillars of the eu framework programmes , in order to support them to reach the market . this identification of projects supported in other pillars of horizon europe and also previous framework programmes will be based on pertinent methodologies , such as the innovation radar .


### the eic board will provide recommendations to the commission regarding innovation trends or initiatives needed to enhance and foster the eu innovation ecosystem , including potential regulatory barriers . the board ' s advice should also identify emerging areas of innovation to be taken into account in the activities under the global challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar and missions . in this way , the board is expected to contribute to the overall coherence of the horizon europe programme . ### the eic board will provide recommendations to the commission regarding innovation trends or initiatives needed to enhance and foster the eu innovation ecosystem , including potential regulatory barriers . the board ' s advice should also identify emerging areas of innovation to be taken into account in the activities under the societal challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar and missions . in this way , the board is expected to contribute to the overall coherence of the horizon europe programme , including to ensure the integration of sex / gender analysis in order to avoid gender bias and allow all segments of population benefit from innovation processes .


### in particular , programme managers will oversee the implementation of pathfinder calls , and propose evaluation rankings in view of consistent strategic portfolio of projects , expected to make essential contributions to the emergence of potential societal or economic market creating innovations . ### in particular , programme managers will assist the commission to oversee the implementation of pathfinder calls .


### the eu must also aim to develop ecosystems that support social innovation and public sector innovation , in addition to innovation in private enterprises . indeed , the government sector must innovate and renew itself in order to be able to support the changes in regulation and governance required to support the large - scale deployment of new technologies and a growing public demand for the more efficient and effective delivery of services . social innovations are crucial to enhance the welfare of our societies . ### the eu must also aim to develop ecosystems that support social innovation and public sector innovation , in addition to innovation in private enterprises . indeed , the government sector must innovate and renew itself in order to be able to support the changes in regulation and governance required to support the large - scale deployment of new technologies and a growing public demand for the more efficient , effective , accessible and inclusive delivery of services . social innovations are crucial to enhance the welfare , inclusion and active engagement of our societies .


### the eu must also aim to develop ecosystems that support social innovation and public sector innovation , in addition to innovation in private enterprises . indeed , the government sector must innovate and renew itself in order to be able to support the changes in regulation and governance required to support the large - scale deployment of new technologies and a growing public demand for the more efficient and effective delivery of services . social innovations are crucial to enhance the welfare of our societies . ### the eu must also develop ecosystems that support social innovation and public sector innovation , including social interactions , in addition to innovation in private enterprises . indeed , the government sector must innovate and renew itself in order to be able to support the changes in regulation and governance required to support the large - scale deployment of new technologies and a growing public demand for the more efficient and effective delivery of services . social innovations are crucial to enhance the welfare of our societies .


### –support also joint programmes for mentoring , coaching , technical assistance and other services that are delivered close to innovators , by networks such as enterprise europe network , clusters , pan - european platforms such as startup europe , local innovation actors , public but also private , in particular incubators and innovation hubs that could moreover be interconnected to favour partnering between innovators . support may also be given to promote soft skills for innovation , including to networks of vocational institutions and in close relation with the european institute of innovation and technology ; ### –support also joint programmes for mentoring , coaching , technical assistance and other services that are delivered close to innovators , by networks such as enterprise europe network , clusters , pan - european platforms such as startup europe , local innovation actors , public but also private , in particular incubators and innovation hubs that could moreover be interconnected to favour partnering between innovators . support should also be given to promote soft skills for innovation , including to networks of vocational institutions and in close relation with the european institute of innovation and technology , special attention should be given to support the participation and engagement of the most deprived eu regions to which the lack of technical knowledge and human resources can be impeditive to participate in these programmes ;


### to address future challenges , embrace the opportunities of new technologies and contribute to sustainable economic growth , jobs , competitiveness and the well - being of europe’s citizens , there is the need to further strengthen europe’s capacity to innovate by : fostering the creation of new environments conducive to collaboration and innovation ; strengthening the innovation capabilities of academia and the research sector ; supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial people ; stimulating the creation and the development of innovative ventures . ### to address future challenges , embrace the opportunities of new technologies and contribute to sustainable economic growth , jobs , competitiveness and the well - being of europe’s citizens , there is the need to further strengthen europe’s capacity to innovate by : fostering the creation of new environments conducive to collaboration and innovation ; strengthening the innovation capabilities of academia and the research sector ; supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial and research people ; stimulating the creation and the development of innovative ventures .


### –development of innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities of the higher education sector , by leveraging the eit community expertise in linking education , research and business ; ### –development of innovation , capacity building , social innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities of the higher education sector , by leveraging the eit community expertise in linking education , research and business ;


### food and natural resources ### food , natural resources , seas and oceans


### food and natural resources ### food - agriculture , forestry and rural areas - food systems - bio - based innovation systems


### food and natural resources ### food and natural resources from land and sea


### in order to achieve the objective referred to in paragraph 1 and to facilitate the provision of advisory support at local level , the eiah shall seek to use the expertise of the eib , the commission , national promotional banks or institutions , and the managing authorities of the european structural and investment funds . ; ### in order to achieve the objective referred to in paragraph 1 , the eiah shall seek to use the expertise of the eib , the commission , national promotional banks or other institutions , and the managing authorities of the european structural and investment funds . it shall also engage in meaningful dialogue on investment projects with the social partners at the relevant level to ensure projects contribute to the creation of quality employment and shall be responsible for ensuring public consultations are carried out on largely investment projects which may have large environmental or social impacts .


### where the facts as finally established show that the conditions set out in article 3 of this regulation are met , the commission may adopt definitive safeguard measures . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 14 of this regulation . ### where the facts as finally established show that the conditions set out in article 3 of this regulation are met , the commission shall invite the authorities of moldova to hold consultations in accordance with article 160 of the agreement . where no satisfactory solution has been reached within 30 days , the commission may adopt definitive safeguard measures . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 14 of this regulation .


### the report shall include information about the application of provisional and definitive measures , prior surveillance measures , regional surveillance and safeguard measures and the termination of investigations and proceedings without measures . ### the report shall inter alia include information about the application of provisional and definitive safeguard measures , prior surveillance measures , the termination of investigations and proceedings without measures and the application of anti - circumvention mechanism .


### the 2 140 customs offices17 that are present over the external borders of the european union need to be properly equipped to ensure the operation of the customs union . the need for adequate and equivalent customs controls is ever more pressing not only by reason of the traditional function of customs to collect revenue but also increasingly by the necessity to significantly reinforce the control of goods entering and exiting union ' s external borders in order to ensure both safety and security . however , at the same time , those controls on the movement of goods across the external borders should not impair but rather facilitate legitimate trade with third countries . _________________ 17 annex of the annual 2016 report of the customs union performance available on : https : / / ec . europa . eu / info / publications / annual - activity - report - 2016 - taxation - and - customs - union_en . ### all customs offices17 that are present over the external borders of the european union need to be properly equipped to ensure the operation of the customs union . the need for adequate and equivalent customs controls is ever more pressing not only by reason of the traditional function of customs to collect revenue but also increasingly by the necessity to significantly reinforce the control of goods entering and exiting union ' s external borders in order to ensure both safety and security . however , at the same time , those controls on the movement of goods across the external borders should not impair but rather facilitate legitimate trade with third countries . _________________ 17 annex of the annual 2016 report of the customs union performance available on : https : / / ec . europa . eu / info / publications / annual - activity - report - 2016 - taxation - and - customs - union_en .


### there is currently an imbalance in the performance of customs control by member states . this imbalance is due both to geographic differences between member states and in their respective capacities and resources . the ability of member states to react to challenges generated by the constantly evolving global business models and supply chains depend not only on the human component but also on the availability of modern and reliable customs control equipment . the provision of equivalent customs control equipment is therefore an important element in addressing the existing imbalance . it will improve equivalence in the performance of customs controls throughout member states and thereby avoid the diversion of the flows of goods towards the weakest points . ### there is currently an understandable imbalance in the performance of customs control by member states . this imbalance is due both to geographic differences between member states and in their respective capacities and resources . the ability of member states to react to challenges generated by the constantly evolving global business models and supply chains depend not only on the human component but also on the availability of modern and reliable customs control equipment . the provision of equivalent customs control equipment is therefore an important element in addressing the existing imbalance . it will improve equivalence in the performance of customs controls throughout member states and thereby avoid the diversion of the flows of goods towards the weakest points .


### supporting the creation of an adequate and equivalent level of customs controls at the union’s external borders allows maximising the benefits of the customs union . a dedicated union intervention for customs control equipment correcting current imbalances would moreover contribute to the overall cohesion between member states . in view of the challenges facing the world , in particular the continued need to protect the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states while easing the flow of legitimate trade , the availability of modern and reliable control equipment at the external borders is indispensable . ### supporting the creation of a uniform , adequate and equivalent level of customs controls at the union’s external borders allows maximising the benefits of the customs union . a dedicated union intervention for customs control equipment correcting current imbalances would moreover contribute to the overall cohesion between member states . in view of the challenges facing the world , in particular the continued need to protect the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states while easing the flow of legitimate trade , the availability of modern and reliable control equipment at the external borders is indispensable .


### in order to respond appropriately to evolving policy priorities , threats and technologies , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of amending the customs control purposes for actions eligible under the instrument and the list of indicators to measure the achievement of the specific objectives . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . ### in order to respond appropriately to evolving policy priorities , threats and technologies , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of amending the customs control purposes for actions eligible under the instrument and the list of indicators to measure the achievement of the specific objectives . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate and fully transparent consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts .


### the instrument has the specific objective of contributing to adequate and equivalent customs controls through the purchase , maintenance and upgrade of relevant , state - of - the - art and reliable customs control equipment . ### the instrument has the specific objective of contributing to adequate and equivalent customs controls through the fully transparent purchase , maintenance and upgrade of relevant , state - of - the - art and reliable customs control equipment .


### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 may also cover expenses for preparation , monitoring , control , audit , evaluation and other activities for managing the instrument and evaluating the achievement of its objectives . it may moreover cover expenses relating to the studies , meetings of experts , information and communication actions , in so far as they are related to the objectives of the instrument , as well as expenses linked to information technology networks focusing on information processing and exchange , including corporate information technology tools and other technical and administrative assistance needed in connection with the management of the instrument . ### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 may also cover legitimate and verified expenses for preparation , monitoring , control , audit , evaluation and other activities for managing the instrument and evaluating the achievement of its objectives . it may moreover cover likewise legitimate and verified expenses relating to the studies , meetings of experts , information and communication actions , in so far as they are related to the objectives of the instrument , as well as expenses linked to information technology networks focusing on information processing and exchange , including corporate information technology tools and other technical and administrative assistance needed in connection with the management of the instrument .


### by way of derogation from paragraph 1 , in duly justified cases , the actions may also cover the purchase , maintenance and upgrade of customs controls equipment for testing new pieces or new functionalities in operational conditions . ### by way of derogation from paragraph 1 , in duly justified cases , the actions may also cover the fully transparent purchase , maintenance and upgrade of customs controls equipment for testing new pieces or new functionalities in operational conditions .


### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public . ### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge within reason the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public , though the spend on this funding acknowledgement should be in proportion to the overall cost .


### by terms indicated in the relevant product specification . ### by any terms permitted by the relevant product specification ;


### furthermore , member states shall ensure , at the time of transfer of a firearm from government stocks to permanent civilian use , the unique marking permitting identification of the transferring government . ### furthermore , member states shall ensure , at the time of transfer of a firearm from government stocks is not transferred to permanent civilian use .


### are at least 18 years of age , except in relation to the possession of firearms for hunting and target shooting , provided that in that case persons of less than 18 years of age have parental permission , or are under parental guidance or the guidance of an adult with a valid firearms or hunting licence , or are within a licenced or otherwise approved training centre ; ### are at least 18 years of age ;


### the commission shall submit every five years a report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this directive , accompanied , if appropriate , by proposals in particular as regards the categories of firearms of annex i and the issues related to new technologies such as 3d printing . the first report shall be submitted two years after the entry into force of this directive . ' ### the commission shall submit every three years a report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this directive , accompanied , if appropriate , by proposals in particular as regards the categories of firearms of annex i and the issues related to new technologies such as 3d printing . the first report shall be submitted two years after the entry into force of this directive . '


### the provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu related to the application of the safe country of origin concept should be applicable in relation to third countries that are on the eu common list established by this regulation . this means , in particular , that the circumstance that a third country is on the eu common list of safe countries of origin cannot establish an absolute guarantee of safety for nationals of that country and does not dispense therefore with the need to conduct an appropriate individual examination of the application for international protection . in addition , it should be recalled that , where an applicant shows that there are serious reasons to consider the country not to be safe in his or her particular circumstances , the designation of the country as safe can no longer be considered relevant for him or her . ### the provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu related to the application of the safe country of origin concept should be applicable in relation to third countries that are on the eu common list established by this regulation . this regulation creating an eu common list of safe countries cannot establish an absolute guarantee of safety for nationals of a third country and in no circumstances absolves member states from their obligations to conduct an appropriate individual examination of the application for international protection in accordance with the procedural safeguards laid down in directive 2013 / 32 / eu during which applicants will be able to access the full range of services and resources available to all in the asylum procedure , including but not limited to , legal assistance , translation , safe accommodation and access to an appeal process . all applications should be considered on the applicants circumstances in the third country and where an applicant shows that there are serious reasons on grounds of gender , race , religion , sexual orientation , gender identity , nationality , membership of a particular social group or political opinion , to consider the country not to be safe in his or her particular circumstances , the designation of the country as safe can no longer be considered relevant for him or her . due care must also be given to applicants from minority groups where burden of proof can violate their dignity or put them increased risk of danger and that all applicants should have the right to an effective remedy in the case of a negative decision as well as lawfully remain on the territory pending such an appeal . in addition , procedures for returning applicants who do not meet the criteria must not violate the principle of non - refoulement .


### the applicant comes from a country which satisfies the criteria to be considered a safe country of origin within the meaning of this directive ; or ### in article 25 paragraph 6 point a point i is amended as follows : the applicant comes from a country which satisfies the criteria to be considered a safe country of origin within the meaning of this directive , except where article 36 applies


### the extended efsi should address remaining market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for europe’s future job creation – including for the youth – , growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , environment and climate action , social and human capital and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the union ' s ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference should be reinforced . energy interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways should be avoided , unless it is needed to support private investment in transport in cohesion countries or in cross - border transport projects involving at least one cohesion country . for reasons of clarity , although they are already eligible , it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support . ### the extended efsi should address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations to mobilise public sector financing in investments crucial for europe ' s future job creation – including for the youth – and growth with ensured additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , environment and climate action , social economy and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference and the eu 2050 commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 - 95% , must be reinforced . energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways or fossil fuel projects must be avoided . for reasons of clarity , although they are already eligible , it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support .


### in line with the exceptional market demand for sme financing under the efsi which is expected to continue , the efsi sme window should be enhanced . particular attention should be paid to social enterprises , including through the development and deployment of new instruments . ### in line with the exceptional market demand for sme financing under the efsi , the efsi sme window should be enhanced with additional resources , as well as the support capacities for sme of the advisory hub . particular attention should be paid to social enterprises .


### in order to achieve the objective referred to in paragraph 1 and to facilitate the provision of advisory support at local level , the eiah shall seek to use the expertise of the eib , the commission , national promotional banks or institutions , and the managing authorities of the european structural and investment funds . ### in order to achieve the objective referred to in paragraph 1 and to facilitate the provision of advisory support at local level , the eiah shall seek to use the expertise and collaborate with the commission , national promotional banks or institutions , and the managing authorities of the european structural and investment funds .


### it is necessary to establish conservation reference points to allow for additional precaution when a stock size is reduced to certain critical level posing serious risk . such conservation reference points should be determined at levels of minimum spawning biomass of a stock that is consistent with full reproductive capacity . remedial measures should be envisaged in case the stock size falls below minimum spawning biomass . ### it is necessary to establish conservation reference points to allow for additional precaution when a stock size is reduced to certain critical level posing serious risk . such conservation reference points should be determined at levels of biomass corresponding to maximum sustainable yield of a stock . remedial measures should be envisaged in case the stock size falls below this level .


### minimum spawning biomass ### biomass corresponding to maximum sustainable yield


### the conservation reference points expressed in minimum spawning biomass level that is consistent with full reproductive capacity shall be for the stocks concerned as follows : ### to ensure that fish populations do not exceed the lower limit corresponding to maximum sustainable yield , conservation reference points are expressed in biomass corresponding to maximum sustainable yield , which shall be for the stocks concerned as follows :


### when the spawning biomass of any of the stocks concerned for a certain year is below the minimum spawning biomass levels set out in paragraph 1 , appropriate remedial measures shall be adopted to ensure rapid return of the stock concerned to precautionary levels . in particular , by way of derogation from article 4 of this regulation and in accordance with article 16 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 fishing opportunities shall be set at levels lower than those resulting in target fishing mortality ranges laid down in article 4 . these remedial measures may also include , as appropriate , the submission of legislative proposals by the commission and emergency measures adopted by the commission under article 12 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 . ### when the biomass of any of the stocks concerned for a certain year is below the levels corresponding to maximum sustainable yield set out in paragraph 1 , appropriate remedial measures shall be adopted to ensure rapid return of the stock concerned to precautionary levels . in particular , by way of derogation from article 4 of this regulation and in accordance with article 16 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 fishing opportunities shall be discontinued , or set at levels substantially lower than those resulting in target fishing mortality ranges laid down in article 4 . these remedial measures may also include , as appropriate , the submission of legislative proposals by the commission and emergency measures adopted by the commission under article 12 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 .


### the commission shall ensure an evaluation of the impact of this plan on the stocks covered by this regulation and on the fisheries exploiting those stocks , in particular to take account of changes in scientific advice , six years after the entry into force of the plan and , thereafter , every six years . the commission shall submit the results of these evaluations to the european parliament and council . ### the commission shall ensure an evaluation of the impact of this plan on the stocks covered by this regulation and on the fisheries exploiting those stocks , as well as on marine mammals , turtles and seabirds , in particular to take account of changes in scientific advice , six years after the entry into force of the plan and , thereafter , every six years . the commission shall submit the results of these evaluations to the european parliament and council .


### administrative records , including information from tax and customs authorities ; ### administrative records , including information from national central banks , tax and customs authorities ;


### when exercising the powers referred to in paragraph 1 with regard to the simplifications , the commission shall take into account the size and importance of the business economies , in accordance with the principle of proportionality , in order to alleviate the burden on enterprises . in addition , the commission shall ensure that the input needed for compiling the accounting frameworks of national and regional accounts according to regulation no 549 / 2013 and of balance of payments statistics according to regulation no 184 / 2005 is maintained . implementing acts , except for those that regulate the first implementation of this regulation , shall be adopted at least 15 months before the end of the reference period of the data for the topics listed in annex i . for the topics ' innovation ' and ' ict usage and e - commerce ' the implementing acts shall be adopted at least six and twelve months respectively before the end of the reference period of the data . ### when exercising the powers referred to in paragraph 1 with regard to the simplifications , the commission shall take into account the size and importance of the business economies , in accordance with the principle of proportionality . in addition , the commission shall ensure that the input needed for compiling the accounting frameworks of national and regional accounts according to regulation no 549 / 2013 and of balance of payments statistics according to regulation no 184 / 2005 is maintained . implementing acts , except for those that regulate the first implementation of this regulation , shall be adopted at least 15 months before the end of the reference period of the data for the topics listed in annex i . for the topics ' innovation ' and ' ict usage and e - commerce ' the implementing acts shall be adopted at least six and twelve months respectively before the end of the reference period of the data .


### the member state in which an application for international protection is made and which is carrying out the process of determining the member state responsible may , at any time before a member state responsible has been determined , request another member state to take charge of an applicant in order to bring together any family relations , even where that other member state is not responsible under the criteria laid down in articles 10 to 13 and 18 . the persons concerned must express their consent in writing . ### the member state in which an application for international protection is lodged and which is carrying out the process of determining the member state responsible may , at any time before a member state responsible has been determined , or the member state responsible , request another member state to take charge of an applicant in order to bring together any family relations on humanitarian grounds based in particular on family or cultural considerations , even where that other member state is not responsible under the criteria laid down in articles 10 to 13 and 18 . the persons concerned must express their consent in writing .


### with 1 . 8% of eu gdp , down from 2 . 2% in 2009 , infrastructure investment activities in the union in 2016 were about 20% below investment rates before the global financial crisis . thus , while a recovery in investment - to - gdp ratios in the union can be observed , it remains below what might be expected in a strong recovery period and is insufficient to compensate years of underinvestment . more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union ' s structural investment needs in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium - sized enterprises and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing . consequently , continued support is necessary to address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors to achieve the union ' s policy objectives . ### with 1 . 8% of eu gdp , down from 2 . 2% in 2009 , infrastructure investment activities in the union in 2016 were about 20% below investment rates before the global financial crisis . thus , while a recovery in investment - to - gdp ratios in the union can be observed , it remains below what might be expected in a strong recovery period and is insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment . more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union ' s structural investment needs in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , research , skills , infrastructure , small and medium - sized enterprises , start - ups , and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing . consequently , continued support is necessary to address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors to achieve the union ' s policy objectives .


### the union endorsed the objectives set out in the united nations agenda 2030 and its sustainable development goals and the paris agreement in 2015 as well as the sendai framework for disaster risk reduction 2015 - 2030 . to achieve the agreed objectives , including those embedded in the environmental policies of the union , action pursuing sustainable development is to be stepped up significantly . therefore , the principles of sustainable development should feature prominently in the design of the investeu fund . ### the union endorsed the objectives set out in the united nations agenda 2030 and its sustainable development goals and the paris agreement in 2015 as well as the sendai framework for disaster risk reduction 2015 - 2030 . to achieve the agreed objectives , including those embedded in the social and environmental policies of the union , action pursuing sustainable development is to be stepped up significantly . therefore , the principles of sustainable development should feature prominently in the design of the investeu fund .


### low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis undermined the union ' s ability to boost sustainable growth , competitiveness and convergence . sizeable investments in the european infrastructure are fundamental to meet the union ' s sustainability targets , including the 2030 energy and climate targets . accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into transport , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy , environmental , climate action , maritime and digital infrastructure . to maximise the impact and the value added of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process enabling visibility of the project pipeline and consistency across relevant union programmes . bearing in mind security threats , investment projects receiving union support should take into account principles for the protection of citizens in public spaces . this should be complementary to the efforts made by other union funds such as the european regional development fund providing support for security components of investments in public spaces , transport , energy and other critical infrastructure . ### low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis along with recessive economic policies and further cuts to public investments , undermined the union ' s ability to boost sustainable growth , competitiveness and convergence . sizeable investments in the european infrastructure are fundamental to meet the union ' s social standards for employment , inequalities and sustainability targets , including the 2030 energy and climate targets as well as the paris agreement goals . accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into transport , insularity , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy , environmental , climate action , maritime and digital infrastructure . to ensure the maximum public control and transparency on those targets , the process should embody maximum transparency and accountability standards . to maximise the impact and the value added of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process enabling visibility of the project pipeline and consistency across relevant union programmes . bearing in mind security threats , investment projects receiving union support should take into account principles for the protection of citizens in public spaces . this should be complementary to the efforts made by other union funds such as the european regional development fund providing support for security components of investments in public spaces , transport , energy and other critical infrastructure .


### small and medium - sized enterprises play a crucial role in the union . however , they face challenges when accessing finance because of their perceived high risk and lack of sufficient collateral . additional challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging in digitisation , internationalisation and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . moreover , compared to larger enterprises , they have access to a more limited set of financing sources : they typically do not issue bonds , have only limited access to stock exchanges or large institutional investors . the challenge in accessing finance is even greater for those smes whose activities focus on intangible assets . smes in the union rely heavily on banks and debt financing in the form of bank overdrafts , bank loans or leasing . supporting smes that face the above challenges and providing more diversified sources of funding is necessary for increasing the ability of smes to finance their creation , growth and development , withstand economic downturns , and for making the economy and the financial system more resilient during economic downturn or shocks . this is also complementary to the initiatives already undertaken in the context of the capital markets union . the investeu fund should provide an opportunity to focus on specific , more targeted financial products . ### small and medium - sized enterprises play a crucial role in the union . however , they face challenges when accessing finance because of their perceived high risk and lack of sufficient collateral . additional challenges arise from the need of smes and social economy enterprises , to stay competitive by engaging in digitisation , internationalisation and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . moreover , compared to larger enterprises , they have access to a more limited set of financing sources : they typically do not issue bonds , have only limited access to stock exchanges or large institutional investors . the challenge in accessing finance is even greater for those smes whose activities focus on intangible assets . smes in the union rely heavily on banks and debt financing in the form of bank overdrafts , bank loans or leasing . supporting smes that face the above challenges and providing more diversified sources of funding is necessary for increasing the ability of smes to finance their creation , growth and development , withstand economic downturns , and for making the economy and the financial system more resilient during economic downturn or shocks and capable of creating quality and long - term jobs and social prosperity . particular attention should be paid to social enterprises . the investeu fund should provide an opportunity to focus on specific , more targeted financial products .


### the investeu fund should be open to contributions from third countries that are members of the european free trade association , acceding countries , candidates and potential candidates , countries covered by the neighbourhood policy and other countries , in accordance with the conditions laid down between the union and those countries . this should allow continuing cooperating with the relevant countries , where appropriate , in particular in the fields of research and innovation as well as smes . ### subject to the same rules and regulations , the investeu fund should be open to contributions from third countries that are members of the european free trade association , acceding countries , candidates and potential candidates , countries covered by the neighbourhood policy and other countries , in accordance with the conditions laid down between the union and those countries . this should allow continuing cooperating with the relevant countries , where appropriate , in particular in the fields of research and innovation as well as smes .


### in selecting implementing partners for the deployment of the investeu fund , the commission should consider the counterpart ' s capacity to fulfil the objectives of the investeu fund and contribute its own resources , in order to ensure adequate geographical coverage and diversification , to crowd - in private investors and to provide sufficient risk diversification as well as new solutions to address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations . given its role under the treaties , its capacity to operate in all member states and the existing experience under the current financial instruments and the efsi , the european investment bank group should remain a privileged implementing partner under the investeu fund ' s eu compartment . in addition to the eib group , national promotional banks or institutions should be able to offer a complementary financial product range given that their experience and capabilities at regional level could be beneficial for the maximisation of the impact of public funds on the territory of the union . moreover , it should be possible to have other international financial institutions as implementing partners , in particular when they present a comparative advantage in terms of specific expertise and experience in certain member states . it should also be possible for other entities fulfilling the criteria laid down in the financial regulation to act as implementing partners . ### in selecting implementing partners for the deployment of the investeu fund , the commission should consider the counterpart ' s capacity to fulfil the objectives of the investeu fund and contribute its own resources , in order to ensure adequate geographical coverage and diversification , to avoid disproportionate benefit to larger member states with more developed capital markets to crowd - in private investors and to provide sufficient risk diversification as well as new solutions to address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations . given its role under the treaties , its capacity to operate in all member states and the existing experience under the current financial instruments and the efsi , the european investment bank group should remain a privileged implementing partner under the investeu fund ' s eu compartment . in addition to the eib group , national promotional banks or institutions should be able to offer a complementary financial product range given that their experience and capabilities at regional level could be beneficial for the maximisation of the impact of public funds on the territory of the union .


### in order to ensure a wide geographic outreach of the advisory services across the union and to successfully leverage local knowledge about the investeu fund , a local presence of the investeu advisory hub should be ensured , where needed , taking into account existing support schemes , with a view to provide tangible , proactive , tailor - made assistance on the ground . ### in order to ensure a wide geographic outreach of the advisory services across the union and to successfully leverage local knowledge about the investeu fund , a local presence in each member state and in regions of the investeu advisory hub should be ensured taking into account existing support schemes , with a view to provide tangible , proactive , tailor - made assistance on the ground .


### this regulation establishes the investeu fund providing for an eu guarantee for financing and investment operations carried out by the implementing partners in support of the union’s internal policies . ### this regulation establishes the investeu fund providing for an eu guarantee for financing and investment operations carried out by implementing partners .


### sustainable infrastructure policy window : comprises sustainable investment in the areas of transport , energy , digital connectivity , supply and processing of raw materials , space , oceans and water , waste , nature and other environment infrastructure , equipment , mobile assets and deployment of innovative technologies that contribute to the environmental or social sustainability objectives of the union , or to both , or meet the environmental or social sustainability standards of the union ; ### sustainable infrastructure policy window : comprises sustainable investment in the areas of transport and logistics , urban mobility , energy , energy efficiency , communication , digital and broadband connectivity , tourism , supply and processing of raw materials , space , oceans and water , waste , the circular economy , nature and other environment infrastructure , cultural heritage , equipment , mobile assets and deployment of innovative technologies that contribute to the environmental or social sustainability objectives of the union , or to both , as well as to the long - term sustainable development of the region in which the operation is taking place ;


### smes policy window : access to and availability of finance for smes and , in duly justified cases , for small mid - cap companies ; ### msme policy window : access to and availability of finance for micro , small , and medium - sized companies ;


### for the eu compartment , the eligible counterparts shall have expressed their interest and shall be able to cover financing and investment operations in at least three member states . the implementing partners may also cover together financing and investment operations in at least three member states by forming a group . ### the eligible counterparts shall have expressed their interest and shall be able to cover financing and investment operations in at least three member states . the implementing partners may also cover together financing and investment operations in at least three member states by forming a group .


### each configuration of the investment committee shall be composed of six remunerated external experts . the experts shall be selected in accordance with [ article 237 ] of the [ financial regulation ] and be appointed by the commission for a fixed term of up to four years . their term shall be renewable but shall not exceed seven years in total . the commission may decide to renew the term of office of an incumbent member of the investment committee without availing itself of the procedure laid down in this paragraph . ### each configuration of the investment committee shall be composed of six remunerated external experts and a representative from each member state . the experts shall be selected in accordance with [ article 237 ] of the [ financial regulation ] and be appointed by the commission for a fixed term of up to four years . their term shall be renewable but shall not exceed seven years in total . the commission may decide to renew the term of office of an incumbent member of the investment committee without availing itself of the procedure laid down in this paragraph .


### twice a year , the conclusions of the investment committee rejecting the use of the eu guarantee shall be transmitted to the european parliament and to the council , subject to strict confidentiality requirements . ### twice a year , the conclusions , the criteria applied and the scoreboard indicators related to the investment committee shall submit to the european parliament , the council and the member states participating in the investeu , a list of all the conclusions as well as the scoreboards relating to all those decisions , that submission shall be subject to strict confidentiality requirements .


### the union ' s ambitious external investment plan is needed to support investments starting in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood as a means to promote the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development as well as the commitments under the recently revised european neighbourhood policy thus addressing root causes of migration . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change . ### the union ' s ambitious external investment plan is needed to support investments starting in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood as a means to promote the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development , essentially poverty and inequality reduction , in alignment with the internationally agreed development effectiveness principles . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change . the eu external investment should focus in the people more in need and on those areas more affected or likely to be affected by climate change .


### the efsd shall contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals of the 2030 agenda with a particular focus on sustainable growth , job creation , socio - economic sectors and on the support to micro , small and medium sized enterprises , thus addressing root causes of migration and contributing to sustainable reintegration of returned migrants in their countries of origin while maximising additionality , delivering innovative products and crowding in private sector funds . ### the efsd shall contribute to the achievement of the principles underpinning the 2030 agenda on sustainable development , such as that of leave no one behind , as well as all the goals and targets therein , with an especially focus on combating poverty and inequalities , and shall be guided by the objectives set out in articles 21 teu and 208 tfeu and the internationally agreed development effectiveness principles - especially ownership , alignment , harmonisation , democratic accountability and results - , thus contributing to the union ' s development objectives , with a particular focus on poverty eradication , inequality reductions , long - term sustainable and inclusive growth , decent job creation , technology transfer and the sharing of knowledge , socio - economic sectors and on the support to micro , small and medium sized enterprises . in so doing , the efsd shall , inter alia , contribute to addressing specific socio - economic root causes of forced migration and foster sustainable reintegration of migrants when voluntarily willing to return to their countries of origin or transit , as well as strengthen resilience of host communities .


### contribute to economic and social development , with particular focus on sustainability and job creation , thus addressing root causes of migration and contributing to sustainable reintegration of returned migrants in their countries of origin ; ### contribute to economic , endogenous and social development , with particular focus on the achievement of the sustainable development goals , having its essential focus on poverty eradication and inequality reductions ; this operations shall be guided by the objectives set out in articles 21 teu and 208 tfeu and the internationally agreed development effectiveness principles - especially ownership , alignment , harmonization , democratic accountability and results - , thus contributing to the union ' s development policy objectives , with a particular focus on poverty eradication , inequality reductions , long - term sustainable and inclusive growth , decent job creation , technology transfer and the sharing of knowledge , socio - economic sectors and on the support to local micro , small and medium sized enterprises . in so doing , the efsd shall , inter alia , contribute to addressing specific socio - economic root causes of forced migration , and foster sustainable reintegration of migrants when voluntarily willing to return to their countries of origin or transit , as well as strengthen resilience of host communities by boosting the creation of sustainable and decent jobs , in particular for youth and women ;


### the commission or the eligible counterparts shall notify the european anti - fraud office promptly and provide it with the necessary information when , at any stage of the preparation , implementation or closure of financing and investment operations covered by this regulation , they have grounds for suspecting fraud , corruption , money laundering or any other illegal activity that may affect the financial interests of the union . ### if at any stage of the preparation , implementation or closure of financing and investment operations covered by this regulation the commission has grounds for suspecting fraud , corruption , money laundering or any other illegal activity that may affect the financial interests of the union , they or their eligible counterparts shall immediately notify the european anti - fraud office and provide it with all necessary information to enable a full and thorough investigation to be carried out .


### the paris agreement , inter alia , sets out a long - term goal in line with the objective to keep the global temperature increase well below 2°c above pre - industrial levels and to pursue efforts to keep it to 1 . 5°c above pre - industrial levels . in order to achieve this goal , the parties should prepare , communicate and maintain successive nationally determined contributions . the paris agreement replaces the approach taken under the 1997 kyoto protocol which will not be continued beyond 2020 . the paris agreement also calls for a balance between anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases in the second half of this century , and invites parties to take action to conserve and enhance , as appropriate , sinks and reservoirs of greenhouse gases , including forests . ### the paris agreement , inter alia , sets out a long - term goal in line with the objective to keep the global temperature increase well below 2°c above pre - industrial levels , which scientists agree , require the world to work towards a period of negative emissions where sustainable farming practices and forestry will play a central role in achieving this and to pursue efforts to keep it to 1 . 5°c above pre - industrial levels . in order to achieve this goal , the parties should prepare , communicate and maintain successive nationally determined contributions . the paris agreement replaces the approach taken under the 1997 kyoto protocol which will not be continued beyond 2020 . the paris agreement also calls for a balance between anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases in the second half of this century , and invites parties to take action to conserve and enhance , as appropriate , sinks and reservoirs of greenhouse gases , including forests .


### the european council of 23 - 24 october 2014 also acknowledged the multiple objectives of the agriculture and land use sector , with their lower mitigation potential as well as the need to ensure coherence between the union food security and climate change objectives . the european council invited the commission to examine the best means of encouraging the sustainable intensification of food production , while optimising the sector ' s contribution to greenhouse gas mitigation and sequestration , including through afforestation , and to establish policy on how to include land use , land use change and forestry into the 2030 greenhouse gas mitigation framework as soon as technical conditions allow and in any case before 2020 . ### the european council of 23 - 24 october 2014 also acknowledged the multiple objectives of the agriculture and land use sector , with their lower mitigation potential as well as the need to ensure coherence between the union food security and climate change objectives . the european council invited the commission to examine the best means of encouraging sustainable food production , while optimising the sector ' s contribution to greenhouse gas mitigation and sequestration , including through agro - forestry to integrate food production with biodiversity , maintenance and restoration of wetlands and peat lands , afforestation and to establish policy on how to include land use , land use change and forestry into the 2030 greenhouse gas mitigation framework as soon as technical conditions allow and in any case before 2020 .


### it is necessary to establish a european maritime and fisheries fund for the 2021 - 2027 period . that fund should aim to target funding from the union budget to support the common fisheries policy , the union ' s maritime policy and the union ' s international commitments in the field of ocean governance . such funding is a key enabler for sustainable fisheries and the conservation of marine biological resources , for food security through the supply of seafood products , for the growth of a sustainable blue economy and for healthy , safe , secure , clean and sustainably managed seas and oceans . ### it is necessary to establish a european maritime and fisheries fund for the 2021 - 2027 period . that fund should aim to target funding from the union budget to support the common fisheries policy , the union ' s maritime policy and the union ' s international commitments in the field of ocean governance . such funding , which must be distributed equitably and must cater especially for small - scale fishing producer organisations , is a key enabler for sustainable fisheries and the conservation of marine biological resources , for food security through the supply of seafood products , for the growth of a sustainable blue economy and for healthy , safe , secure , clean and sustainably managed seas and oceans .


### as a global ocean actor and the world ' s fifth largest producer of seafood , the union has a strong responsibility to protect , conserve and sustainably use the oceans and their resources . preserving seas and oceans is indeed vital for a rapidly growing world population . it is also of socio - economic interest for the union : a sustainable blue economy boosts investments , jobs and growth , fosters research and innovation and contributes to energy security through ocean energy . moreover , safe and secure seas and oceans are essential for an efficient border control and for the global fight against maritime crime , thereby addressing citizens ' security concerns . ### as a global ocean actor and the world ' s fifth largest producer of seafood , the union has a strong responsibility to protect , conserve and sustainably use the oceans and their resources . preserving seas and oceans is indeed vital for a rapidly growing world population . it is also of socio - economic interest for the union : a sustainable blue economy boosts investments , jobs and growth , fosters research and innovation and contributes to energy security through ocean energy . moreover , safe and secure seas and oceans are essential for the global fight against maritime crime .


### the multiannual financial framework set out in regulation xx / xx6 provides that the union budget must continue to support fisheries and maritime policies . the emff budget should amount , in current prices , to eur 6 140 000 000 . emff resources should be split between shared , direct and indirect management . eur 5 311 000 000 should be allocated to support under shared management and eur 829 000 000 to support under direct and indirect management . in order to ensure stability in particular with regard to the achievement of the objectives of the cfp , the definition of national allocations under shared management for the 2021 - 2027 programming period should be based on the emff 2014 - 2020 shares . specific amounts should be reserved for the outermost regions , control and enforcement and collection and processing of data for fisheries management and scientific purposes , while amounts for permanent cessation and extraordinary cessation of fishing activities should be capped . _________________ 6 oj c [ … ] , [ … ] , p . [ … ] . ### the multiannual financial framework set out in regulation xx / xx6 provides that the union budget must continue to support fisheries and maritime policies . the emff budget should amount , in current prices , to eur 6 140 000 000 . emff resources should be split between shared , direct and indirect management . eur 5 311 000 000 should be allocated to support under shared management and eur 829 000 000 to support under direct and indirect management . in order to ensure stability in particular with regard to the achievement of the objectives of the cfp , the definition of national allocations under shared management for the 2021 - 2027 programming period should be based on the emff 2014 - 2020 shares . specific amounts should be ring - fenced for the outermost regions , control and enforcement and collection and processing of data for fisheries management and scientific purposes , while amounts for permanent cessation and extraordinary cessation of fishing activities should be capped . _________________ 6 oj c [ … ] , [ … ] , p . [ … ] .


### europe ' s maritime sector employs over 5 million jobs generating almost eur 500 billion a year , with a potential to create many more jobs . the output of the global ocean economy is estimated at eur 1 . 3 trillion today and this could more than double by 2030 . the need to meet co2 emissions targets , increase resource efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of the blue economy has been a significant driving force for innovation in other sectors such as marine equipment , shipbuilding , ocean observation , dredging , coastal protection and marine construction . investment in the maritime economy has been provided by union structural funds , in particular the european regional development fund and the emff . new investment tools such as investeu must be utilised to meet the growth potential of the sector . ### europe ' s maritime sector employs over 5 million jobs generating almost eur 500 billion a year , with a potential to create many more jobs , though fish species stocks must continue to be monitored and over - fishing guarded against through suitable measures . the output of the global ocean economy is estimated at eur 1 . 3 trillion today and this could more than double by 2030 . the need to meet co2 emissions targets , increase resource efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of the blue economy has been a significant driving force for innovation in other sectors such as marine equipment , shipbuilding , ocean observation , dredging , coastal protection and marine construction . investment in the maritime economy has been provided by union structural funds , in particular the european regional development fund and the emff . new investment tools such as investeu must be utilised to meet the growth potential of the sector .