The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), part of Horizon Europe, the EU’s research and innovation programme, will launch a new Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC) in the water, marine and maritime sectors and ecosystems.

According to a European Commission analysis published today, the establishment of a new KIC is relevant for tackling critical global challenges including: water scarcity, droughts and floods as well as marine and freshwater degradation. EIT Water, the new KIC, will connect top partners and steer innovation to strengthen the blue economy and Europe’s competitiveness.

An EIT KIC is a pan-European public and private partnership among leading companies, research organisations and universities. At the beginning of 2025, the EIT will publish a Call for Proposals inviting applicants to submit their vision for EIT Water. Water is essential for sustaining all life on Earth. It plays a significant role in our planet’s climate and biodiversity and has an essential role for health, wellbeing, and prosperity. It is also a vital source of food and renewable energy production, and a key driver of the global economy including for trade and transport.

With EIT strategic steering and long-term financing, EIT KICs work with their partners to offer innovation and entrepreneurship activities across Europe, including entrepreneurial education courses and skills development, innovation-driven research projects as well business creation services. EIT KICs drive industries to increase their innovation potential and deliver on sustainable solutions to global challenges.

Source : https://eit.europa.eu/news-events/news/greenlight-eit-water-european-commission-approves-launch