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GreenSET Launches OPEN CALL for SMEs ready to build new sustainable and innovative tourism services

12/01/2026

Accelerate your green transformation!

General Information (applies to all countries)

The GreenSET project is launching an open call for SMEs from MED regions to participate in the MEDSSIM sustainability pilot actions.

Selected SMEs will receive free expert support, tailored mentoring, practical tools, and European-level visibility as they design innovative, sustainable tourism service concepts.

This open call aims to select 3 SMEs per country to pilot the MEDSSIM methodology, developed by partners of the Interreg MED GreenSET project.
Participation is free of charge for selected SMEs.

In total, 27 SMEs from the Interreg MED programme area (3 per partner country) will be selected.

SMEs do not need to be active in tourism at present. Any company wishing to develop a service with potential application in tourism is eligible to apply.


What is MEDSSIM?

MEDSSIM (MED Sustainable Service Innovation Methodology) is a practical, step-by-step method designed to help SMEs:

  • Use resources more efficiently

  • Reduce waste

  • Create circular and sustainable services in tourism

  • Become more environmentally friendly

  • Strengthen innovation and competitiveness


How Does the MEDSSIM Methodology Work?

The methodology guides SMEs through the following key phases:

  • Internal discovery & ecosystem mapping

  • Opportunity identification & idea generation

  • Service development & validation

  • Sustainable business model design

  • Implementation & continuous improvement


Deadline

Wednesday, 4 February 2026

Apply before the deadline

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Who Can Apply?
Eligible SMEs must:
  • Be registered in Montenegro, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Veneto, Comunitat Valenciana, Kriti, Cyprus, Algarve, Croatia, or Albania
  • Meet the EU SME definition:
    • Fewer than 250 employees
    • ≤ €50 million turnover or < €43 million balance sheet total
Selection Criteria
  • Motivation and commitment
  • Capacity and resources to participate
  • Openness to innovation and collaboration
What Support Will Selected SMEs Receive?
  1. Sustainability assessment using the MEDSSIM methodology
  2. Tailored guidance and mentoring from experts
  3. Support in developing strategic improvements and business model innovations
  4. Support in developing Service Concept Forms for green and circular transformation
  5. Opportunity to test practical digital, green, and operational tools to improve services and reduce costs
  6. Visibility as an EU-level best practice
  7. Participation in transnational learning activities
Pilot support will last approximately 2 months.
At the end of the pilot action, each SME will create a Service Concept Form tailored to its specific needs, expectations, and maturity level.
What Is Expected from Participating SMEs?
  • Participation in workshops, trainings, and mentoring sessions
  • Appointment of a dedicated contact person
  • Sharing necessary operational information for analysis
  • Implementing developed services
  • Agreement that involvement and outcomes may be shared publicly in project materials
  • Availability for possible participation in project promotion
Are You Eligible If You Are Not in Tourism?
Yes. Examples of eligible SMEs include:
  • ICT SMEs delivering digital tools for travellers (apps, self-guided tours, etc.)
  • Manufacturing SMEs offering sustainable, visitor-focused products
  • Creative SMEs designing engaging tourism experiences or new service concepts

How to Apply :

Please apply through the partner responsible for your country/region.
 
Just tap at the region you belong and the application link will shop up below:
 

SME's to be selected