Challenge program
The Program is established to support the creation of solutions related to digitalization and green transition challenges. The purpose of the Program is to support the development of solutions to large-scale and complex challenges that require a mission-driven approach. The mission-driven approach entails setting an ambitious and inspirational target with wide societal relevance that catalyzes innovation across sectors and economic actors. A mission-oriented project includes any new or improved technological, social, and organizational solution (product, process, or service) contributing to achieving the mission. The concept of mission-oriented R&D is “not a one size fits all” but is rather flexible and adaptable, emphasizing its goal-driven nature and focus on addressing specific societal needs. Its importance lies in its ability to align research and innovation efforts with overarching societal objectives, fostering sustainable development and economic growth.
Missions can be characterized by several key-features:
- Missions are anchored by a clearly defined societal or technological target, often expressed in terms of percentage reductions or increases, or absolute goals;
- Missions operate on a large scale, mobilizing substantial public and/or private investments and resources, with expected societal and economic impacts;
- Mission-oriented initiatives drive transformative change, often exploring groundbreaking solutions for policy or market needs;
- Missions are often cross-disciplinary, involving diverse technologies, actors, and sectors, with solutions applicable across various industries and social contexts.
The Republic of Croatia is among the European countries that have yet to adopt and implement a mission-oriented approach to develop effective policies. The introduction of such initiatives could stimulate the country’s growth and enhance innovation and technological advancement by addressing critical economic challenges. To accomplish this, a systematic approach is imperative.
The Program identifies and supports partnerships of firms and research organizations from diverse disciplines and sectors. These consortia will receive sub-grants or matching sub-grants to fuel innovation and commercialization. The private sector will play a critical role by contributing matching funds and actively participating in governance. To mitigate moral hazard and adverse selection risks, at least one private firm should be part of each partnership. Consortia will contribute a portion of the financing provided by this component, and the amount invested by private sector co-sponsors will be considered in the selection process. The program will also foster connections to established international centers and prioritize the creation of public value and the potential commercial application of project outcomes, benefiting both member companies and the broader sector, including new technology-based businesses and other innovative firms.
Solutions may be proposed in any sector and must demonstrate their potential for transformative impact in achieving Croatia’s digital transformation or transition to climate-resilient, biodiversity-rich, environmentally sustainable, and climate-neutral economy.