My IVY Experience at Interreg Italy – Austria Programme
Hello all! I’m Olga and I’m currently deployed as an IVY Reporter for the Interreg Italy-Austria Programme. But what is IVY? What is Interreg? Not a lot of people know of these programs, and even I was not aware of their existence until recently, when I was looking for possible volunteering experiences in a European country. And it is certainly a pity, considering the opportunities that the European Union makes available through these programs and initiatives. With this little post I hope to bring some clarity and knowledge about the opportunities and the concrete work that are facilitated by Interreg, and more generally by the EU. Interreg is a key financial tool that contributes to the implementation of the so-called “Cohesion Policy” and its priorities. Established by the end of the 80’s, the Cohesion Policy is, first and foremost, the concrete manifestation of the EU’s interest and effort to promote a harmonized and balanced, hence fruitful, development of the different regions and territories included in its political area. The Cohesion Policy is a key component of the EU strategy to reduce economic and social disparities between its member states and to achieve this goal, this policy allocates significant funding to support hundreds of programs and projects. Between the programs funded by the Cohesion Policy, we can find Interreg. Interreg, put simply, is a financial tool that supports cooperation across borders through project funding. Interreg was started in 1990 and focused only on cross-border cooperation (Interreg A); over time it expanded and today there are other so-called “Strands of Cooperation” that go beyond the local borders, supporting larger scale initiatives (Interreg B: transnational cooperation) and network-building to facilitate exchange of best practices at a pan-European level (Interreg C: interregional cooperation). I am specifically an IVY: an Interreg Volunteer Youth. If you’re a young citizen from 18 to 30 years old, you can apply for this initiative. If chosen you will be able to volunteer in one of the various Interreg programs, and so to live in the European Country where Interreg activities are coordinated, supported by a financial compensation. This is a great opportunity to learn how the cooperation is reinforced with the aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly by the border regions. The idea of Interreg in the Strand of cross-border cooperation is to enhance a sustainable and inclusive growth and promote the well-being of people living in regions lying directly on the borders. To this end, local problems are jointly addressed by cross-border actors, such as firms, research centers, public institutions, schools, local action groups, to find together solutions, products or procedures that can tackle challenges related to transport, health, environment, and sustainable energy, among others. These joint solutions also need to address global challenges, such as climate change, green transition, and social inclusion. As an IVY, it is my task to promote and share the results of the projects funded by Interreg Italy-Austria, but I have a more specific task related to the consultations post-2027, needed by the European Commission to collect information on how to deliberate for the future of Interreg. Thanks to this specific job, I have interviewed over 30 partners that live and work in Austria and in Italy. They have offered me a valuable insight on their cross-border experience so far. Interreg has made possible for them to travel, meet, exchange opinions and practices and learn from different perspectives. Every partner has highlighted how borders facilitate, rather than diminish, the will and the opportunity to work together to build something good for their territory: to “give something back” is always at the center of every project funded by Interreg IT-At. Against the gloom of a “nationalistic” ghost over the European Union that is leading to raising walls and closing doors, Interreg shows that cooperation across borders is very well-received and it’s blossoming: from developing workshops with a participatory approach for school students to motivate and inform them on sustainable mobility and climate change (Project Mobility for Future | Interreg Italy Austria), to develop a common cross-border ecosystem that aims to capacitate the introduction of circular processes in the food production chain (Project FOODIS | Interreg Italy Austria). In addition, thanks to IVY I’m also meeting new people, making friends, learning about a different place and culture (every Italian region has a different culture) and this is also a personal and professional enrichment. I can only recommend this experience, especially if you feel like a small fish in an immense and indifferent ocean: Interreg showed me that it is by starting small that you get to be big. – Olga Abbiani, IVY Reporter at JS Interreg Italy – Austria Discover more about Interreg Italy-Austria Click Here
Strengthening cross-border cooperation and governance across the French-Italian border : my IVY experience at the Mission Opérationnelle Transfrontalière
Hello everyone ! My name is Sara Smaniotto and I am an IVY at the Mission Opérationnelle Transfrontalière (MOT) in Paris, France. I joined the MOT nearly three months ago, and my experience has been very positive and enriching since the very beginning. Working on the Alcotraité project has given me the great opportunity to dive deeper into cross-border governance and cooperation, and to see bilateral obstacles and barriers becoming corner-stone opportunities for a brighter common future. The Alcotraité project is funded by the Interreg France-Italy ALCOTRA programme and aims at strengthening cross-border cooperation and governance between Italian and French bordering regions and local communities. Focusing on specific objectives included in the bilateral Quirinal Treaty signed by Italy and France in 2021, Alcotraité addresses and aims at finding concrete solutions to overcome existing cross-border barriers in the fields of healthcare, biodiversity and public transport. Thanks to the active participation of all five regions at the terrestrial border (Regione Liguria, Regione Piemonte, Regione Autonoma Valle d’Aosta, Région Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and Région Auvergne Rhône-Alpes) and of the Mission Opérationnelle Transfrontalière (MOT) acting as a facilitator, Alcotraité favours multi-level bilateral cooperation and enables partners and stakeholders to be actively engaged in jointly identifying cross-border barriers, and in developing common solutions. The project, moreover, pays close attention to citizens’ needs and it allows stakeholders’ expression of ideas through a bottom-up approach. During my experience as an IVY at the MOT I’ve been involved in various stimulating activities, that enabled me to grow personally and professionally and allowed me to make valuable contributions to the project. More precisely, I’ve been actively engaged in the analysis of the outcomes to a survey on cross-border obstacles launched in the summer and open to the public and to local actors living and operating in areas along the Italian-French border. The feedbacks received, and the conducted analysis, have been crucially important for us and for the project partners, as they have enabled us to better comprehend the practical cross-border barriers that local stakeholders face in their daily lives, and they have allowed us to support meaningful advancements in the project partners’ cross-border governance and cooperation – notably in the field of public transport and infrastructure. I’ve also been taking part in project-related meetings and working sessions, and I had the opportunity to attend the annual ad-hoc event organized in the framework of Alcotraité to celebrate the signing of the Quirinal Treaty – this year, the conference was hosted by Regione Piemonte in Turin. Finally, I am now involved in the organization of three territorial workshops, which will encourage discussions and exchanges to identify concrete solutions to the still-existing cross-border obstacles and to further proceed in joint cross-border cooperation. I am really happy about my IVY experience, and I am very grateful for this opportunity! – Sara, IVY Project Partner at MOT for Alcotraité Interreg project Discover more about ALCOTRAITÉ Click Here
Keeping Cooperation Central: My IVY Journey at Interreg Central Europe
“The beauty of Interreg lies in its ability to bring European integration to life—it is the most tangible exercise of cooperation, uniting public and private entities, academic institutions, and NGOs across regions to deliver real, impactful results.” There are no better words to describe my experience as an Interreg Volunteer Youth at the Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE Programme, than the one shared by one of the stakeholders who benefited from the programme during a focus group I had the pleasure to organise for the Consultations on the Future of Cohesion Policy Post-2027. My name is Gregorio Vichi and in these past five months I have been directly involved in supporting the programme’s efforts to strengthen and improve transnational cooperation. Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE is all about connecting regions and organisations across borders to tackle shared challenges, from climate change to innovation, fostering regional development. Through EU-funded projects, it brings together partners from nine countries—Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia—to find common solutions that benefit citizens, businesses, and local governments alike. As an IVY Volunteer, I have had the opportunity to delve into the policy debate on the future of Cohesion Policy by contributing to the stakeholder consultation process. Analysing feedback from programme beneficiaries spread across Europe has allowed me to understand the priorities and challenges that must be addressed in the coming years. Beyond this consultative process, I have also been involved in communicating the value of transnational cooperation, transforming policy discussions and project results into engaging content that highlights the tangible impact of EU-funded initiatives. At the same time, I have contributed to the organisation’s strategic activities, fostering dialogue and engagement among key actors in European cooperation. This has led me to take an active role in supporting and organising workshops, events, and the launch of new calls for applications. In conclusion, my time as an IVY Volunteer at Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE has been an enriching experience. It has allowed me to witness first-hand how different actors from different European regions and sectors work together to overcome shared challenges, turning cooperation from an abstract concept into a concrete tool for change. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone passionate about European affairs eager to make a change into society. But especially to the sceptics—those who often perceive the EU as merely a legislative and regulatory body, detached from reality. From helping farmers developing practices that can store carbon dioxide, to creating more competitive rural villages, you will witness how Interreg shape a stronger, more connected Europe—one project at a time. – Gregorio Vichi, Interreg Reporter at Joint Secretariat of Interreg Central Europe Discover more about Interreg Central Europe Click Here
Advancing Arctic Sustainability and Resilience: My Volunteer Journey at UiT in Narvik
Hello everyone! I am Hanife, an architect from Turkey. I arrived in Narvik the last of August to volunteer at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, motivated by a passion for sustainable construction and the opportunity to contribute to an innovative project tackling the unique challenges of the Arctic climate. Ar2CorD project, supported by Interreg and involving expert partners from Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Finland, and Greenland, aims to develop sustainable construction practices tailored to the region’s harsh conditions, specifically focusing on improving the frost resistance of concrete and reducing its carbon footprint. In my role, I started to design a long-term concrete test facility, drawing inspiration from a range of innovative designs. My first step was analyzing water levels to determine the ideal height for concrete sample structures, which allows for a stable and effective layout. I’m also exploring sustainable energy solutions, like implementing solar panels, which could provide green energy even in the challenging Arctic environment—an exciting possibility! Additionally, I hope to increase the visibility and public engagement around our monitoring station. By enhancing the site’s aesthetic and accessibility, I aim to make it a more appealing destination for tourists, all while showcasing our commitment to sustainability. Volunteering here is a unique and rewarding experience. Narvik has a peaceful, close-knit community that warmly welcomes newcomers, and the city’s commitment to sustainability is truly inspiring. UiT’s Narvik campus is a beautiful place to work, with wide-open windows offering breathtaking views of Ofotfjorden and Narvik Harbour. This project provides a valuable opportunity to support Arctic communities by advancing durable, eco-friendly construction practices, and it’s exciting to be part of this meaningful work. I look forward to the coming months as we make strides in developing solutions that can benefit the entire region. – Hanife Ekinci, Interreg Project Partner at UiT The Arctic University of Norway for the Interreg Project “Ar2CorD”, under the programme Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic Discover more about the AR2CorD project Click Here
MARITTIM’TRAITE: Building Lasting Partnerships in the Mediterranean
Coucou! I am Martina, a Project Partner for the MARITTIM’TRAITE project. I began this journey in October 2024, and it has already been an incredibly rewarding experience. From the start, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in the dynamics of EU Cohesion Policy, particularly cross-border cooperation and the unique challenges faced by maritime and insular regions of France and Italy. The MARITTIM’TRAITE Project The MARITTIM’TRAITE project – launched in March 2024 and funded by the Interreg MARITTIMO programme, with deep roots in the Quirinal Treaty – aims to promote transnational cooperation between several maritime and insular regions of France and Italy. Specifically, it brings together Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Liguria, Tuscany, Sardinia, and Corsica to focus on Priority 5 of the Interreg MARITTIMO programme: “Better cross-border governance.” To achieve this, project partners cooperate by sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, with mutual understanding serving as the first step toward long-lasting collaboration. Moreover, the project seeks to bridge the gap between populations by empowering young people – and not only them – through mobility opportunities. This ensures that future generations play an active role in fostering collaboration, breaking down barriers, and building lasting connections across Mediterranean regions. Last but not least, the project aims to amplify the voices of island communities in policy discussions, advocating for their specific needs at regional, national, and European levels. What I Appreciate the Most As part of the MARITTIM’TRAITE project, I’ve been involved in various activities that allow me to directly contribute to the project’s goals. I have attended several important meetings and events, which are essential for gathering data and supporting the development of key documents. One of the most impactful tasks I have worked on is the mobility landscape report, which compares mobility systems in Italy and France, helping to identify the most effective ways to improve cross-border connections. What I value most about this project is the opportunity to propose ideas. It’s inspiring to see young people come together, collaborate on topics I’ve proposed, and gain valuable experience in cross-border cooperation. The project’s emphasis on empowerment and collaboration has given me a broader understanding of how cooperation can be cultivated and sustained between regions with shared challenges. Looking Ahead MARITTIM’TRAITE is not just about addressing immediate challenges; it’s about laying a solid foundation for future collaborations between these Mediterranean regions. By fostering lasting partnerships through a deeper understanding of one another and promoting cross-border mobility, the project is shaping a future where youth, local stakeholders and island communities continue to collaborate and work toward common goals. This will ensure the resilience and sustainable growth of these territories, which face shared challenges. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an impactful project. The work I’m doing is broadening my perspective on regional cooperation, and I look forward to continuing my journey with MARITTIM’TRAITE and contributing to its long-term success. – Martina Maddaluno, IVY Project Partner for MARITTIM’TRAITE Project under the Interreg Maritimo Programme Discover more about Interreg Marittimo Italy-France Click Here
My IVY Experience – Anna Riyanka George
Hello Interreg Fam!I’m Riyanka, a graduate in ‘Urban Planning and Policy Design’ from Politecnico Di Milano, and I’m currently an IVY Project Partner at Regione Marche, which happens to be the National Contact Point (NCP) for Italy within the Interreg IPA ADRION Programme. National Contact Points serve as pivotal liaisons between the programme’s Managing Authority and stakeholders at the national level. They provide essential support in assisting applicants and beneficiaries with information related to national implementation matters. In Italy, the NCP is represented by Mr. Natalino Barbizzi from the Marche Region’s Department of Economic Development, specifically within the Area of European Territorial Cooperation and International Cooperation. I am eternally grateful to have him as my mentor. In fact, I wouldn’t be an IVY if it wasn’t for him having faith in me. He has never failed to support me in everything I’ve wanted to do so far and has always given me the space to shape my own understanding while constantly guiding me through my tasks. My colleagues at the office have also been the nicest people to be around, and it’s always been a joy to sit in my office chair. 🌼 My education and previous work experience have given me a solid theoretical understanding of the EU’s Economic, Social, and Territorial Cohesion Policy. I think that one of the aspects that makes my IVY journey different from most other IVY experiences (other than the fact that I’m Non-European and hail all the way from India ahaha 😊) is that I didn’t have to relocate to another city for my IVY experience. Instead, I got to do it in the city I had already been living in for the past year! Now, this might sound a bit sad considering that I didn’t get to fly to a completely new city, but honestly, it was my biggest motivation. I had already started feeling at home in the charming little city of Ancona, perched on the Adriatic coast of Italy, when I stumbled upon the ‘IPA- ADRION’- IVY opportunity. The region had already won me over, and I was so impressed by it that it had become part of my drive to contribute to its development, and what better way to do it, than working on a project like IPA ADRION heh? Also—zero packing stress, maximum familiarity! So here I am, living my best IVY life, soaking up the Adriatic vibes, and giving back to a place that has given me so much! 🌊✨ About the Programme…The Interreg IPA ADRION Programme is a European transnational cooperation initiative that connects regions across the Adriatic-Ionian area to promote economic, social, and territorial cohesion. The IPA ADRION Programme spans a dynamic cooperation area comprising 10 countries: 4 EU Member States—Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, and Greece—and 6 non-EU partners—Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and the third country, San Marino. These countries work together to address shared challenges and foster economic, social, and territorial cohesion in the Adriatic-Ionian region. A collaboration that is very essential for realizing our vision of a stronger, more unified Europe. By fostering collaboration among EU and non-EU countries through collaborative projects, the programme promotes innovation, sustainability, connectivity, and good governance, enhancing regional integration and driving positive change across borders. Programme Priorities..The IPA ADRION Programme focuses on four thematic priorities to drive sustainable development and regional cooperation in the Adriatic-Ionian area: Supporting a smarter Adriatic and Ionian region. Supporting a greener and climate-resilient Adriatic-Ionian region. Supporting a carbon neutral and better connected Adriatic and Ionian region. Supporting the Governance of the Adriatic-Ionian region. My activities…In my past two months as an IVY Project Partner, my role mainly revolved around enhancing the communication efforts and visibility of the IPA ADRION Programme. This involves not only supporting outreach activities but also delving into the details of each project within the programme. Through analysing and understanding the various projects funded under IPA ADRION, I’ve gained valuable insights into their objectives, achievements, and the challenges they address. Having the opportunity to understand projects that have already successfully completed the first call, while supporting the ongoing efforts of the second call, has given me a comprehensive perspective on the programme’s impact and progression. Moreover, I have also been given the opportunity to attend many meetings and events both as part of the IPA ADRION programme and the overall EUSAIR Strategies. In fact, my last trip was to Trieste, where at the Palace of the Presidency of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region, I attended the EUSAIR Thematic Steering Group, a two-day meeting on Pillar 2 “Connecting the Region.” While I could go on about all the other events I attended, I think what’s important is to highlight to you that I got to make very valuable connections through all these events, and have started to realise how important it is. I’ve finally started to experience what it’s like to be involved in a community that shares similar values, all working towards the same goal regardless of the diversity of the projects. Even though I play a tiny role in this big bubble of EU-Cohesion Policy, just by being involved, it has left me more motivated and inspired than ever.😊 Looking Ahead..As I continue my journey with the NCP and the Interreg IPA ADRION Programme, we have a lot in store for the next few months. Lastly the biggest Kudos and thank you, to my INTERREG family, for all your efforts. 🌼🤝I can’t wait to share the next updates with you all soon! #InterregIVY #IPAADRION For more information about the Interreg IPA ADRION Programme and the role of National Contact Points, please visit the official website. – Anna Riyanka George, Interreg Project Partner at Marche region – National Contact Point for Italy within the Interreg IPA ADRION programme Discover more about Interreg IPA ADRION and NCPs Click Here
