2. Policy choices, coordination and complementarity Where relevant, cohesion policy programmes will support investments that successfully link the principles of sustainability, aesthetics and inclusiveness in line with the New European Bauhaus initiative, with a view to finding accessible, inclusive, sustainable and attractive solutions to the challenges posed by climate change. Policy Objective 1: A more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity With a view to developing and improving research and innovation capacities and deploying advanced technologies, we will use ERDF funds to bolster investment in research infrastructure, particularly public research infrastructure, and research capacities (with a focus on those that relate to national strategic development priorities). This is crucial for scientific excellence and for the implementation of cutting-edge research. In the priority areas of the Slovenian Sustainable Smart Specialisation Strategy (S5), we will provide support to innovation clusters (Strategic Research and Innovation Partnerships, SRIPs) and research projects mainly at TRL 3-9, as well as individual instruments at lower TRLs, e.g. financing concept-testing as a means of continuing to fund selected projects (e.g. the Centre for Creativity). We will upgrade the Knowledge Transfer Offices (KTOs) and ensure the accelerated transfer of research results into society is carried out in a way that is stable over the long term. Closer cooperation will be established between the KTOs, Slovenian Business Points (SPOT) and the measures taken by the Slovenian Enterprise Fund. Investments to strengthen research infrastructure will be prioritised. Investments in research infrastructure (facilities and equipment) are essential if the scientific research and innovation ecosystem is to be upgraded to an extent that ensures adequate knowledge transfer between the academic (universities and institutes) and commercial spheres and to society as a whole. Top-class research infrastructure will foster integration with the economy and the creation of new innovative products and technologies, thereby making the economy more competitive and integrating it into international research and innovation networks; it will also create new jobs with high value added per employee and strengthen innovation activity overall. The actions complement PO4 actions, which address educational infrastructure. We will also promote the recruitment of young researchers in public research organisations and in business and industry. We will horizontally link research and innovation actions and ensure their integration with complementary EU funding instruments (e.g. Horizon Europe) and activities to develop the European Research Area, including through transnational actions. In all S5 priority areas, particular attention will be paid to promoting the principles of innovation, a low-carbon, circular economy and the acceleration of digitalisation, the deployment of enabling technologies (KETs), relevant knowledge and skills, and support for investments that manage to link together the principles of sustainability, aesthetics and inclusiveness in line with the New European Bauhaus initiative. Given the sustainable nature of the upgraded S5, with the central objective of the green transition pursued in all priority areas throughout the entire package of measures, integration with PO2 measures will also be ensured at a horizontal level. Within the framework of the relevant specific objectives/measures, the use of financial instruments is envisaged insofar as the results of the analysis of the preliminary assessments of market needs and the funding gaps on the market for the implementation of financial instruments in the 2021–2027 programming period demonstrate the need to use financial instruments.