Innovative Sustainable Economy Community Hub
The ISEC (Innovative Sustainable Economy Community) Hub is an open and inclusive space that brings together stakeholders from across the Mediterranean region, all committed to building a fairer, greener, and more resilient future. Whether you’re part of a public institution, a research centre, NGO, business-or simply passionate about sustainable development, the ISEC Hub offers a collaborative space to connect, exchange knowledge, and take action—especially within the Green and Blue circular economy sectors. Ready to join a vibrant, forward-thinking community? The ISEC Hub is here to connect, inspire, and empower you.
Participation is free and open to all. Whether you want to explore, learn or contribute with a meaningful community —the ISEC Hub is your gateway to impact.
MED Innovation Contest
Facilitating access to events and networking opportunities
During the active lifespan of the ISEC Hub (i.e., 2023-2029) the initiative will facilitate access to in-person events and networking opportunities, at least twice a year, within the framework of the MED Innovation Camps and the MED Innovation Summits. Check below for any available open call!
Innovation Camps
Develop a shared understanding of complex challenges related to sustainable development in the Mediterranean region. It is a space to create the conditions for an open and facilitated dialogue between regional and local Quadruple Helix stakeholders and to propose transformative actions. Each year the Camp addresses a different theme and a specific common challenge, which is analysed at a systemic level through a Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) approach.
1st Edition May 2023, Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
2nd Edition May 2024, Barcelona (Spain)
3rd Edition October 2025, Olhao (Portugal)
Innovation Summits
Organised annually, these events aim to accelerate cooperation and innovation in sustainable practices across the Mediterranean region. The annual event includes community building activities using the World Café methodology on specific themes and panel discussions bringing together local authorities, researchers, entrepreneurs, SMEs and civil society to share experiences and promote sustainability efforts.
1st Edition June 2024, Marseille (France)
2nd Edition November 2025, Barcelona (Spain)
3rd Edition May 2026, Athens (Greece)
Open Call
Are you eager to expand your network and discover initiatives working across the Mediterranean for a more sustainable region? This might be your chance.
You can now participate at the upcoming 2nd Med Innovation Summit taking place in Barcelona, Spain, on the 6 November, within the framework of the Smart City Expo World Congress
What is it about?
This year’s edition of the MED Innovation Summit focuses on how innovative governance and collaboration across the public and private sectors can transform waste management practices and unlock new circular opportunities. The Summit will place a particular spotlight on textiles—a sector in which Europeans discard around five million tonnes of clothing and footwear every year, yet only one per cent is recycled into new garments. By rethinking waste as a resource, the Summit will demonstrate how such approaches can catalyse regional transformation.
Designed as an interactive event, the MED Innovation Summit will combine moderated discussions, case study presentations, and audience engagement to highlight diverse voices and practical pathways.
To participate, you will need to:
- Carefully review the Terms of Reference (ToR) below for detailed information on participation and the selection process.
- Complete the registration form at the end of this page.
- Attach a brief cover letter (maximum 1 page) in English to your application, explaining your interest in attending the event.
All applications must be submitted via the Form at the end of the page by 22 October 2025. Please note that the organisers reserve the right to limit the number of participants due to logistical constraints.
Terms of Reference
Who can apply?
Eligible stakeholders must be members of the ISEC Hub within the Euro-Mediterranean cooperation area and not currently active partners in any Interreg Euro-MED project. They should represent one of the four innovation ecosystem helixes—academia, civil society, public, or private sectors. Applicants must be proficient in English and demonstrate active involvement in areas related to the event’s themes, such as innovation, sustainable development, territorial governance, and regional development, among others.
What is covered?
Selected participants will have their travel and accommodation expenses fully covered. No additional per diem or other allowances will be provided. Meals may be covered if provided during the event agenda. If need it, VISA will also be managed.
What is required?
Applicants are asked to fill out the Form and provide a brief cover letter (maximum one page in English) explaining their interest in participating in the event. The letter should highlight how their background or current activities are relevant to the event’s topics, as well as outline any expected benefits or potential synergies with ongoing initiatives. In addition, applicants should include basic information about their organization and role.
How will applications be evaluated?
The selection process will take into account the thematic relevance of the applicant’s background or organization, as well as the potential for follow-up cooperation, contribution, or dissemination of outcomes. The clarity and motivation expressed in the cover letter will also be carefully evaluated. In addition, geographical and gender balance will be considered. Particular value will be placed on the participation of individuals and associations from the Mediterranean area outside the EU, with special attention to youth involvement.
What else to know?
The organizers reserve the right to limit the number of participants based on logistical constraints. The decision of the selection committee is final and not subject to appeal. Participation in the event must be confirmed within 5 working days of selection. Selected ISEC Hub members are expected to prepare thoroughly and take an active role throughout the full duration of the event. They will also be asked to disseminate the knowledge and outcomes gained within their organizations or networks, and to engage in post-event evaluation or follow-up activities when relevant.
