The CR.EU.IN. HERITAGE which is the driving innovation within the European Cultural Heritage Value Chain (CHVC), supports collaborative innovation projects across the cultural heritage value chain, with a focus on advancing green and digital transitions. The initiative is funded under the EU Single Market Programme (SMP-COSME Euroclusters) and aims to strengthen innovation, competitiveness and strategic autonomy within Europe’s cultural and creative sectors. It is targeted at SMEs established in EU and associated countries, particularly those working across cultural heritage, creative industries and related sectors.

The call provides cascade funding to support cross-border SME collaboration through two strands: product innovation and process innovation linked to sustainability and digitalisation. Projects are expected to be implemented by consortia of SMEs and supported through a structured process that includes a concept note stage, capacity building and a full project phase. The initiative aims to fund multiple projects across Europe, enabling SMEs to develop innovative solutions, strengthen partnerships and scale their impact within the cultural heritage ecosystem.

The application process follows a two-step approach, with an initial concept note submission followed by a full proposal stage for selected applicants. The deadline for step 1 is 20 April 2026, with further stages continuing later in the year.

For full details and application requirements, applicants are encouraged to consult the official call page on the European Cluster Collaboration Platform.