In 2025, 19 projects were selected under EUKI Call 9 and all are now fully operational – a good opportunity for an initial overview.
With their focus on cross-border cooperation, the EUKI-funded projects support the European ideal. They bring together partners from 21 European countries, with the highest rate of participation from Bulgaria (8 projects), Hungary (7), Germany (6) and Romania (6). Spain, Austria, the Netherlands, Italy, Portugal, Montenegro and Lithuania are also taking part, with one project each.
Key focus areas: energy transition and climate-neutral buildings
Energy transition and climate-neutral buildings are the priority topics (9 projects) with a wide range of issues being addressed, including buildings, energy communities, energy efficiency, energy poverty, energy transition and renewables.
While some initiatives disseminate tried and tested solutions, others venture into uncharted territory. The Transforming Invisible Buildings project addresses the reactivation potential of vacant buildings in Greece and North Macedonia with the additional ambition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting renovations instead of demolition.
The Green Pre-Incubators for Just Transition project deals with the issue of a fair and equitable transformation. In coal-dependent regions of Greece and North Macedonia, it establishes a structured pre-incubation and early-stage support programme for green entrepreneurship. It also raises awareness of climate-oriented business opportunities and helps young people, aspiring entrepreneurs and unemployed individuals to develop viable low-carbon business solutions.
The Peatlands Future: Carbon Farming & Conservation project, involves nine countries and strengthens peatland strategies and carbon farming readiness. It assists governments to develop national peatland strategies, and tests practical solutions in Bulgaria, Slovakia and Slovenia. The broad range of participants ensures that a wealth of experience and expertise can be unlocked and accessed.
Descriptions of all Call 9 projects can be found here.
by Susanne Reiff, GIZ/EUKI