Under the European mission “Restore our oceans and waters by 2030,” INOVA+ is participating in seven projects, four of which are in the Danube and Black Sea basin.
The Danube and Black Sea basin, the second largest river basin in Europe and one of the most important freshwater ecosystems, faces high levels of pollution, over-exploitation for agricultural purposes, wetland destruction, and threats to habitats. Projects funded by the Ocean Mission aim to help protect and restore freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity.
INOVA+ leads the SoS2LearnDBS project
Led by INOVA+, the SoS2LearnDBS project recently secured around €12M for 4 years (2025–2029) and brings together a consortium of 12 partners from 9 different countries: Portugal, Germany, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, Austria, Spain, Serbia, and Hungary.
The goal is to promote the restoration of waters, seas, and oceans in the Danube and Black Sea river basin district through community action.
Local communities will have access to cascade funding (FSTP), technical assistance, and capacity-building programs to increase water literacy, community engagement, practical skills, and access to resources to ensure the implementation of innovative solutions based on technology, nature, society, culture, economy, regulation, and governance.
SWIM project celebrates a transnational alliance
The SWIM project started in September 2025. The initiative presents a holistic approach and sustainable, innovative solutions focusing on the preservation and improvement of habitats for migratory fish species in the Danube River basin and the northwestern Black Sea region.
The SWIM consortium is made up of 42 partners and was supported by INOVA+ during the proposal writing process, which resulted in approval of around €8M. It includes a transnational cooperation alliance among government institutions, NGOs, researchers, and local communities.
It is expected to last 4 years (2025–2029), implementing 13 activities across 7 pilot sites, with the health of aquatic ecosystems as a priority.
It is important to note that INOVA+ played a leading role in the proposal process for these two new projects, working in coordination with the respective consortia.
INOVA+ in the Ocean Mission
The SoS2LearnDBS and SWIM projects add to five other ongoing projects (A-AGORA, Probleu, AlgaeProBanos, DaWetRest, and DANSER), consolidating INOVA+’s position within the Ocean Mission.
Did you know that INOVA+ is the Portuguese company with the highest participation in Horizon Europe Missions? We have a specialized team that ensures access and support for the participation of various organizations in international consortia and projects. Learn more here!