Every project begins with an idea and an initiative for change, aimed at creating new value. However, an idea alone does not constitute a project. A project emerges when an idea is developed through clearly defined objectives, activities, expected results, and measurable impacts (Deljac, 2007).
 
Today, EU projects in the Republic of Croatia represent one of the key instruments for financing development, innovation, and international cooperation. In the current European Union financial period (2021–2027), the focus is on the green and digital transition, economic resilience, innovation, education, and social inclusion.
 
Organizations in Croatia, including higher education institutions, have access to a wide range of programmes and funds, such as the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, Digital Europe, LIFE, and Interreg territorial cooperation programmes. Additionally, through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), reforms and investments aimed at long-term competitiveness and sustainable development are financed.
 
Funding is provided through various mechanisms, including grants, public procurement, and institutional and international cooperation projects. There is an increasing emphasis on partnership-based projects, interdisciplinarity, and the involvement of stakeholders from different sectors—academic, public, and private.
 
Funding areas include innovation, digitalization, sustainable tourism, the green economy, energy efficiency, education, the labour market, social innovation, and regional development. Particular encouragement is given to projects that contribute to smart specialization and strengthen the resilience of local communities.
 
In this context, the Faculty of Economics and Tourism “Dr. Mijo Mirković” (FET) and Juraj Dobrila University of Pula actively monitor and utilize new project opportunities. By participating in EU projects, these institutions not only secure additional funding sources but also develop international cooperation, strengthen research capacities, and enhance the quality of education.
 
FET, as a constituent of the University, possesses relevant knowledge and experience to participate in all phases of the project cycle, supported by a well-developed network of partners from the public and private sectors as well as international institutions. Particular emphasis is placed on linking science and industry, developing innovative solutions, and transferring knowledge into practice.
 
Through a proactive approach to EU funds and programmes, FET contributes to the development of a competitive, sustainable, and innovative economy, while simultaneously strengthening its role in the European research and education area.
 
 Ongoing projects:

• ARCHAEODIGIT
• BPulse
• FORTIC
• TESTET

More details about completed projects can be found at the following link.