The Interreg NEXT MED Programme has officially approved 60 new projects that will further drive Mediterranean cooperation and address key regional challenges. Selected from the first call for proposals, which received an overwhelming response of 630 proposals, these projects focus on climate adaptation, circular economy, natural resources management, sustainable economic growth, innovation, health, governance, and skills development.

The projects were endorsed by the Monitoring Committee, the programme’s decision-making body, chaired by the Managing Authority, during its meeting in Valencia on February 25-26, 2025, with representatives from the 15 participating countries and the European Commission. Worth a total value of €134 million, including a EU contribution of €119 million, these projects bring together 388 actors from across the Mediterranean, fostering multilevel partnerships that will deliver tangible, transformative solutions for the region. The 60 approved projects will mobilize public institutions, private sector players, research and academic organizations, and civil society to implement high-impact initiatives that address these complex and interconnected challenges, fostering resilience, sustainability, and inclusive growth. Notably, 7 youth-oriented projects have been selected to enhance the participation of young people in Mediterranean cooperation initiatives. These projects represent a key innovation introduced by the Interreg NEXT MED Programme, aiming to equip young people with the skills, opportunities, financial support, and leadership roles they need to shape the future they want for the Mediterranean region.