Interreg as a Catalyst for Innovation

Gotthardt: “We need to move innovations from research into the Bavarian economy more quickly—Interreg can act as a catalyst for this.”

August 19, 2026

Strengthening ties between universities, research institutions, and young startups in the Danube region; supporting the automotive and supplier industries through structural change; and putting new materials technologies into practice—these are just three examples of successful cross-border Interreg B projects. These projects accelerate the transfer of research findings into practice, thereby strengthening innovation, competitiveness, and value creation in Bavaria and neighboring countries.

Foto von Tobias Gotthardt und zwei weiteren Personen, die sich unterhalten

Tobias Gotthardt, State Secretary for Economic Affairs, said during a discussion with project organizers at the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs: “A strong business location thrives on turning good ideas into marketable products. This is exactly where the Interreg programs come in: They bridge the gap between cutting-edge international research and on-the-ground practice. Whether it’s the future of our automotive suppliers, new high-tech materials, or the transfer of digital technology—through cooperation with our European neighbors, we’re securing Bavaria’s top spot in the innovation rankings. Our goal is clear: We want to use the insights gained to strengthen the long-term competitiveness of our businesses and secure future-proof jobs in Bavaria.”

Among the projects presented was CapTTict, with participation from the Deggendorf Institute of Technology. The project strengthens technology transfer and the commercialization of research results in the field of information and communication technology and connects universities, research institutions, and startups through startup programs and digital excellence platforms.

Drive2Transform, coordinated by the Mobility & Logistics Cluster at TechBase Regensburg, specifically supports small and medium-sized enterprises in the automotive and supplier industries as they transition toward digitalization, decarbonization, and new business models.

The RTIT>> project, with the participation of Bayern Innovativ GmbH, promotes the transfer of research and innovation in the field of sustainable materials technologies. Transnational knowledge communities bring together Bavarian stakeholders with partners from the Danube region, thereby strengthening resilient value chains.

Gotthardt: “Today, innovations emerge through cross-border exchange. With Interreg, we are building strong European networks that benefit our companies and research institutions in particular. In this way, we are strengthening Bavaria’s innovative capacity and laying the foundation for sustainable growth and high-quality jobs.”

Through Interreg B, the European Union promotes transnational cooperation in large European regions such as Central Europe, the Danube region, and Northwestern Europe. The goal is to address common challenges across borders and to strengthen innovation, competitiveness, and economic and territorial cohesion in Europe. The Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs actively monitors the projects and supports Bavarian stakeholders in their participation.

Source: StMWi, Contact: Viola Kemmer, Deputy Press Spokesperson. Press Release No. 361/26