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BorderLabs CE

Participatory cross-border governance for transition management
in central European cross-border regions

This project is supported by the Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE Programme with co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund.

For more information visit https://www.interreg-central.eu/projects/borderlabs-ce/.

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As a consequence of progressing EU integration, nearly half a million citizens commute across central European borders, and several tens of thousands inhabitants have chosen municipalities beyond the border as their residence. However, public administration and policies are not yet sufficiently addressing the needs of cross-border communities. There is need to enhance the capacity of local and regional administrations in cross-border functional areas in central Europe to properly manage cross-border integration processes, adequately addressing civil communities’ needs.


The partners of BorderLabs CE teamed up to

  • thematise and valorise cross-border functional ties,
  • spread the practices of cross-border strategic planning,
  • enhance cross-border participatory governance and
  • manage cross-border obstacles.

Within the project new governance models and solutions in the fields of integrated cross-border strategy development, participatory governance, cross-border development of sustainable and slow tourism, cross-border marketing of local products and reduction of border obstacles will be piloted and evaluated, and transnational learning and exchange will be facilitated. In the effect of the project, cross-border cooperation governance in participating cities and regions – from the twin-city level to the regional one – will be substantially improved. All results and findings will be made available for the central European cross-border cooperation community via multimedia platform, enabling the implementation and mainstreaming of solutions. As a result of the project, not only models will be developed for integrated cross-border participatory governance but also a Charter for more integrated central Europe will be drafted and signed.



Address: Archivstraße 1, 01097 Dresden, Germany

Website: https://www.landesentwicklung.sachsen.de/

The Saxon State Ministry for Regional Development (SMIL) is part of the government of the Free State of Saxony. The fields of responsibility of the Ministry are state and regional development, geological survey, structural change in the lignite mining region, urban development, construction, housing and innovation.

SMIL is the coordinator of the project and will ensure the successful achievement of the overall and specific project objectives through solid project and financial management, acting at the same time as link between the programme authorities and the project partnership. The activities realised in the project will be implemented by the Division for European Spatial Planning and Regional Development in the Department for Territorial State Development and Geological Survey. This department plays a pivotal role in crafting territorial planning strategies, integrating them into state and regional frameworks, and aligning them with European strategies for regional development. SMIL will spearhead the pilot action on developing an integrated cross-border strategy in partnership with the Regional Planning Association Upper Lusatia-Lower Silesia, IRT, ER Nisa, and EGTC NOVUM. A special emphasis will be placed on mapping “mental bridges” in the Three-Country Area, fostering unity and understanding across borders. SMIL will collaborate with the State Government of Upper Austria to tackle border obstacles, promoting joint management and cooperative solutions that benefit all stakeholders involved.

Address: Teréz krt 13, 1067 Budapest, Hungary

Website: https://budapest.cesci-net.eu/en

The Central European Service for Cross-Border Initiatives (CESCI) was established with the mission of decreasing the separating effects of the borders and promoting cross-border cooperation in Central Europe. CESCI is at the forefront of fostering cross-border collaboration in the region through a variety of impactful activities. It operates a multidisciplinary research group based in Budapest, focusing on innovative approaches to cross-border cooperation, played a pivotal role in preparing the Interreg A Cross-border Cooperation Programmes for Slovakia-Hungary during the 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 periods. Additionally, it contributed to the evaluation of Interreg A and ENI CBC programmes, ensuring their effectiveness and relevance.  In 2016, CESCI launched the “Legal Accessibility” initiative, a key policy effort aimed at identifying and resolving legal and administrative barriers to cross-border cooperation along Hungary and the Visegrad region. The organisation actively supports the development of cross-border projects and initiatives, driving progress and fostering collaboration in border regions.

As communication coordinator of the project, CESCI will ensure the successful achievement of the project communication objectives through solid communication management, providing the partners with targeted support. With its professional expertise, CESCI will coordinate and facilitatate the identification of challenges and needs in border regions, will guide the process of transnational learning and exchange, and will provide content-related support for the mid-term evaluation of pilot activities and conduct thorough reviews of final pilot action reports to ensure high-quality outcomes. As the organization responsible for the development of a multimedia learning platform, CESCI will create a hub for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the dissemination of best practices. The organisation will lead the elaboration and implementation of the Charter for Participatory Cross-Border Cooperation Governance, a framework to promote inclusive and effective cross-border governance.

Address: Dawida 1a, 50-527 Wrocław, Poland

Website: https://www.irt.wroc.pl/

The Institute for Territorial Development (IRT), representing Lower Silesian Voivodeship, is a key partner in regional planning and development. As a consultative body for the Self-Government of Lower Silesia, the IRT delivers critical territorial knowledge, monitors regional policies, and engages in applied research to support informed decision-making and public participation. The IRT has significantly shaped Lower Silesia’s policies, including transport strategies, green infrastructure projects in Wrocław, and regional bicycle and landscape policies. Its extensive experience includes transnational projects like HealingPlaces, which promotes sustainable environmental management in Central Europe. By combining expertise and collaboration, the IRT ensures sustainable growth and impactful development across Lower Silesia and beyond.

As regional consultative body and think-tank for the territorial policy of the Lower Silesia Voivodeship, the IRT will coordinate the implementation of the pilot action on integrated cross-border strategy development in close cooperation with SMIL, ER Nisa and EGTC Novum. The IRT will be responsible for the elaboration of the cross-border application of “planning ideas” in the Three-Country Area, including the exchange of spatial data and the elaboration of the glossary of terms. Additionally, the IRT will cooperate with EGTC GO on the cross-border development of sustainable and slow tourism. The IRT is committed to creating a citizen-focused vision for trilateral development and ensuring impactful regional and cross-border policies.

Address: U Jezu 525/4, 46001 Liberec

Website: https://ern.cz/

Founded in 1991, the Euroregion Neisse-Nisa-Nysa unites parts of Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic to foster development through cross-border cooperation. Representing municipalities and districts in the tri-border area, it focuses on collaboration in transport, economy, tourism, environment, energy, risk management, and culture. Key achievements include numerous cross-border projects and active Euroregional expert groups (EUREX). The Euroregion plays a vital role in creating conditions for cooperation, connecting partners, and advocating for legislative and international agreements to support its mission.

As representative of local authorities and cross-border communities in the Neisse-Nisa-Nysa Euroregion, the ER Nisa will cooperate for the implementation of the pilot action on integrated cross-border strategy development in cooperation with the SMIL, IRT and EGTC NOVUM. The ER Nisa will be responsible for the elaboration of the joint strategy framework for successful transition of the Three-Country Area and facilitate the cooperation with the Regional Authority of the Liberec Region.  Committed to creating a shared vision for the region’s future, ER Nisa is working with decision-makers to implement strategies that prioritize collaboration and citizen-oriented development.

Address Marktplatz 1, 15230 Frankfurt (Oder)

Website: https://www.frankfurt-oder.de/

Located on the German-Polish border along the Oder River, Frankfurt (Oder) and Słubice have been closely cooperating since 2003, forming a “European Double City” since 2010. Their partnership, built on shared decision-making structures, is a model of cross-border governance. Key bodies such as the Joint Assembly of City Councils and the Cooperation Center, established in 2011, drive joint strategies, goals, and projects. Frankfurt-Słubice Action Plan, which spans from 2020 to 2030, focuses on priorities such as education, infrastructure, economic development, and citizen participation. With institutions like the European University Viadrina and the Leibniz Institute for High-Performance Microelectronics, the cities also stand as a renowned hub for education and research.

A cross-border twin-city in the German-Polish border region, with a long record of cross-border cooperation Frankfurt (Oder) and Słubice are spearheading the pilot action on participatory governance for transition management in twin-cities, in collaboration with EGTC GO. The cities will host twin-city dialogue labs leading to a joint action plan for participatory governance and community dialogue, involving a network of cross-border twin-cities across Central Europe and beyond. Through this initiative, the city aims to promote local decision-making and community involvement, ensuring the long-term success of participatory governance across twin-cities.

Address: Via Cadorna 36, 34170 Gorizia, Italy

Website: https://euro-go.eu/en/

EGTC GO is an Italian public authority formed by the municipalities of Gorizia, Nova Gorica, and Šempeter-Vrtojba, promoting collaborative projects across Italy and Slovenia. The organisation fosters joint initiatives in tourism, culture, economy, education, and infrastructure to enhance local economies, attract investments, and improve citizens’ lives. By overcoming administrative barriers, EGTC GO enables the development of cross-border projects that benefit all three cities. Notably, EGTC GO has successfully managed the Integrated Territorial Investment (ITI), which includes the Isonzo-Soča and Salute-Zdravstvo projects under the Interreg A Cross-border cooperation programme. Additionally, EGTC GO is playing a pivotal role in the nomination of Nova Gorica and Gorizia as the European Capital of Culture for 2025.

EGTC GO is addressing key challenges such as cross-border urban mobility, limited accommodation for tourists, language barriers, and the organisation of joint cultural events. These issues require coordinated efforts from local and regional institutions, stakeholders, and tourism operators. To address these challenges, EGTC GO is leading a pilot project on sustainable and slow tourism development, collaborating with the IRT, ER Nisa, and EGTC NOVUM. The project will create a draft model for cross-border tourism development, which will be refined through a participatory process with stakeholders. The outcomes will include a tourism model, that will help ensure the long-term success of cross-border cooperation in the region, benefiting both local communities and visitors.

Address: Széchenyi tér 1, 2500 Esztergom

Website: https://istergranum.eu/

Established in 2008, the Ister-Granum EGTC connects 46 Hungarian and 36 Slovak municipalities. It was Hungary’s first EGTC and Europe’s second. Since its founding, Ister-Granum EGTC has been involved in diverse activities such as tourism, economic development, transport, and environmental management. A key initiative has been developing a local product network, including the IG Heritage – Territorial Action Plan for Employment (TAPE) and the CB_Brand project, which promotes cross-border cooperation among local producers. The network has already registered 43 local producers under a trademark scheme. Other notable projects include a ferry construction initiative between Neszmély (HU) and Radvaň nad Dunajom (SK), increasing border crossing points, and the “Mária Valéria Bike” initiative, the public cross-border bicycle-sharing system in Esztergom and Štúrovo.

The Ister-Granum EGTC, representing local authorities and communities along the Hungarian-Slovak border, will lead the pilot action on cross-border marketing and promotion of local products. In collaboration with ER Nisa and Upper Austria, the EGTC will develop a guide to support local products and implement an integrated cross-border approach for expanding a local product network. Additionally, Ister-Granum EGTC will collaborate with the City of Frankfurt (Oder) on participatory governance for transition management in twin cities, involving Esztergom (HU) and Štúrovo (SK). The EGTC will ensure the continued development of the local product network and support cross-border governance through local and regional decision-makers.

Address: 1 Maja 27, 58-500 Jelenia Góra

Website: https://www.euwt-novum.eu/

The European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) NOVUM brings together the key regional players from both Poland and the Czech Republic. Its members include the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, Glacensis Euroregion, Euroregion Nisa, and several Czech regions such as Liberec, Královéhradecký, Pardubice, and Olomouc. EGTC NOVUM focuses on a wide range of regional development areas, including transport, infrastructure, tourism, culture, health protection, education, environmental protection, and energy. The organization fosters cross-border cooperation, promotes joint use of resources, and supports research, technological innovation, and social integration. With a strong track record in transnational cooperation, EGTC NOVUM has been involved in several projects aimed at capitalising on territorial cooperation, most recently participating in the BOOSTEE-CE project, which enhances energy efficiency in Central European cities.

The task of the organisation in this project is working on the pilot action for integrated cross-border strategy development, collaborating closely with the IRT, ER Nisa, and the SMR. This includes facilitating the creation of a citizen-oriented vision for trilateral development and promoting the exchange of spatial data, leveraging experience from the BOOSTEE-CE project. EGTC NOVUM also contributes to other pilot activities, including sustainable and slow tourism development. With a focus on fostering local and regional decision-making, EGTC NOVUM supports the implementation of a collaborative governance model and promotes a sustainable vision for the future of the border region.

Address: Bahnhofplatz 1, 4021 Linz

Website: https://www.land-oberoesterreich.gv.at/

The State Government of Upper Austria, through its Department for Spatial Planning, plays a pivotal role in managing and coordinating cross-border cooperation programs. As the seat of the Managing Authority (MA) and Joint Secretariat (JS) for the Interreg A Cross-border Cooperation Programme Bavaria-Austria 2021-2027, the department brings valuable expertise from previous programming periods. Upper Austria’s Department for Spatial Planning is deeply involved in European cohesion policy, supporting local and regional development. Additionally, the department collaborates closely with Regionalmanagement OÖ to promote regional development, particularly in the border areas, further contributing to the success of cross-border projects.

The Government of Upper Austria is set to lead a pilot action focused on the joint management of border obstacles between Austria, Germany, and the Czech Republic, in collaboration with the SMIL and ER Nisa. The initiative will involve a comprehensive analysis of existing border obstacles, laying the foundation for a participatory governance process aimed at reducing these obstacles. In addition to this, Upper Austria will contribute to the development of a cross-border strategy and support the marketing and promotion of local products, using its vast network of regional stakeholders.


SMIL – Saxon State Ministry for Regional Development


Address: Archivstraße 1, 01097 Dresden, Germany

Website: https://www.landesentwicklung.sachsen.de/

The Saxon State Ministry for Regional Development (SMIL) is part of the government of the Free State of Saxony. The fields of responsibility of the Ministry are state and regional development, geological survey, structural change in the lignite mining region, urban development, construction, housing and innovation.

SMIL is the coordinator of the project and will ensure the successful achievement of the overall and specific project objectives through solid project and financial management, acting at the same time as link between the programme authorities and the project partnership. The activities realised in the project will be implemented by the Division for European Spatial Planning and Regional Development in the Department for Territorial State Development and Geological Survey. This department plays a pivotal role in crafting territorial planning strategies, integrating them into state and regional frameworks, and aligning them with European strategies for regional development. SMIL will spearhead the pilot action on developing an integrated cross-border strategy in partnership with the Regional Planning Association Upper Lusatia-Lower Silesia, IRT, ER Nisa, and EGTC NOVUM. A special emphasis will be placed on mapping “mental bridges” in the Three-Country Area, fostering unity and understanding across borders. SMIL will collaborate with the State Government of Upper Austria to tackle border obstacles, promoting joint management and cooperative solutions that benefit all stakeholders involved.


Central European Service for Cross-Border Initiatives (CESCI)


Address: Teréz krt 13, 1067 Budapest, Hungary

Website: https://budapest.cesci-net.eu/en

The Central European Service for Cross-Border Initiatives (CESCI) was established with the mission of decreasing the separating effects of the borders and promoting cross-border cooperation in Central Europe. CESCI is at the forefront of fostering cross-border collaboration in the region through a variety of impactful activities. It operates a multidisciplinary research group based in Budapest, focusing on innovative approaches to cross-border cooperation, played a pivotal role in preparing the Interreg A Cross-border Cooperation Programmes for Slovakia-Hungary during the 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 periods. Additionally, it contributed to the evaluation of Interreg A and ENI CBC programmes, ensuring their effectiveness and relevance.  In 2016, CESCI launched the “Legal Accessibility” initiative, a key policy effort aimed at identifying and resolving legal and administrative barriers to cross-border cooperation along Hungary and the Visegrad region. The organisation actively supports the development of cross-border projects and initiatives, driving progress and fostering collaboration in border regions.

As communication coordinator of the project, CESCI will ensure the successful achievement of the project communication objectives through solid communication management, providing the partners with targeted support. With its professional expertise, CESCI will coordinate and facilitatate the identification of challenges and needs in border regions, will guide the process of transnational learning and exchange, and will provide content-related support for the mid-term evaluation of pilot activities and conduct thorough reviews of final pilot action reports to ensure high-quality outcomes. As the organization responsible for the development of a multimedia learning platform, CESCI will create a hub for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the dissemination of best practices. The organisation will lead the elaboration and implementation of the Charter for Participatory Cross-Border Cooperation Governance, a framework to promote inclusive and effective cross-border governance.


Lower Silesian Voivodeship – Institute for Territorial Development


Address: Dawida 1a, 50-527 Wrocław, Poland

Website: https://www.irt.wroc.pl/

The Institute for Territorial Development (IRT) is a unit of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, responsible for tasks in the field of development policy and spatial planning. The IRT team consists of interdisciplinary experts who provide reliable knowledge about the region and monitor public policies related to territorial development. The Institute’s motto is Knowledge – Cooperation – Development.

The key activities of the Institute include developing policies, strategies, plans, programs, reports, analyses, studies, and concepts in the areas of regional development and spatial planning. IRT also plays a significant role in cross-border cooperation, particularly with Saxony and the Czech Republic. The Institute took part in international projects such as HealingPlaces, MORO, Smart Integration, and others. By combining expert knowledge with broad collaboration, IRT contributes to sustainable development and effective transformative actions both in Lower Silesia and beyond its borders.

As a regional advisory body on spatial policy for the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, the Institute coordinates pilot activities related to the integrated cross-border strategy development, implemented in cooperation with international partners: SMR, ER Nisa, and EGTC Novum. It is responsible for developing the application of planning ideas in the Three-Country Area, including spatial data exchange and the creation of a glossary of pro-development terms. Additionally, it collaborates with EGTC GO on the development of sustainable and slow cross-border tourism. IRT is involved in creating a citizen-oriented vision for future trilateral development and successful transition of the Three-Country Area. It also ensures effective regional and cross-border policies, thereby supporting the region’s sustainable development.


Euroregion Nisa


Address: U Jezu 525/4, 46001 Liberec

Website: https://ern.cz/

Founded in 1991, the Euroregion Neisse-Nisa-Nysa unites parts of Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic to foster development through cross-border cooperation. Representing municipalities and districts in the tri-border area, it focuses on collaboration in transport, economy, tourism, environment, energy, risk management, and culture. Key achievements include numerous cross-border projects and active Euroregional expert groups (EUREX). The Euroregion plays a vital role in creating conditions for cooperation, connecting partners, and advocating for legislative and international agreements to support its mission.

As representative of local authorities and cross-border communities in the Neisse-Nisa-Nysa Euroregion, the ER Nisa will cooperate for the implementation of the pilot action on integrated cross-border strategy development in cooperation with the SMIL, IRT and EGTC NOVUM. The ER Nisa will be responsible for the elaboration of the joint strategy framework for successful transition of the Three-Country Area and facilitate the cooperation with the Regional Authority of the Liberec Region.  Committed to creating a shared vision for the region’s future, ER Nisa is working with decision-makers to implement strategies that prioritize collaboration and citizen-oriented development.


City of Frankfurt (Oder)


Address Marktplatz 1, 15230 Frankfurt (Oder)

Website: https://www.frankfurt-oder.de/

Located on the German-Polish border along the Oder River, Frankfurt (Oder) and Słubice have been closely cooperating since 2003, forming a “European Double City” since 2010. Their partnership, built on shared decision-making structures, is a model of cross-border governance. Key bodies such as the Joint Assembly of City Councils and the Cooperation Center, established in 2011, drive joint strategies, goals, and projects. Frankfurt-Słubice Action Plan, which spans from 2020 to 2030, focuses on priorities such as education, infrastructure, economic development, and citizen participation. With institutions like the European University Viadrina and the Leibniz Institute for High-Performance Microelectronics, the cities also stand as a renowned hub for education and research.

A cross-border twin-city in the German-Polish border region, with a long record of cross-border cooperation Frankfurt (Oder) and Słubice are spearheading the pilot action on participatory governance for transition management in twin-cities, in collaboration with EGTC GO. The cities will host twin-city dialogue labs leading to a joint action plan for participatory governance and community dialogue, involving a network of cross-border twin-cities across Central Europe and beyond. Through this initiative, the city aims to promote local decision-making and community involvement, ensuring the long-term success of participatory governance across twin-cities.


GO EGTC


Address: Via Cadorna 36, 34170 Gorizia, Italy

Website: https://euro-go.eu/en/

EGTC GO is an Italian public authority formed by the municipalities of Gorizia, Nova Gorica, and Šempeter-Vrtojba, promoting collaborative projects across Italy and Slovenia. The organisation fosters joint initiatives in tourism, culture, economy, education, and infrastructure to enhance local economies, attract investments, and improve citizens’ lives. By overcoming administrative barriers, EGTC GO enables the development of cross-border projects that benefit all three cities. Notably, EGTC GO has successfully managed the Integrated Territorial Investment (ITI), which includes the Isonzo-Soča and Salute-Zdravstvo projects under the Interreg A Cross-border cooperation programme. Additionally, EGTC GO is playing a pivotal role in the nomination of Nova Gorica and Gorizia as the European Capital of Culture for 2025.

EGTC GO is addressing key challenges such as cross-border urban mobility, limited accommodation for tourists, language barriers, and the organisation of joint cultural events. These issues require coordinated efforts from local and regional institutions, stakeholders, and tourism operators. To address these challenges, EGTC GO is leading a pilot project on sustainable and slow tourism development, collaborating with the IRT, ER Nisa, and EGTC NOVUM. The project will create a draft model for cross-border tourism development, which will be refined through a participatory process with stakeholders. The outcomes will include a tourism model, that will help ensure the long-term success of cross-border cooperation in the region, benefiting both local communities and visitors.


Ister-Granum EGTC


Address: Széchenyi tér 1, 2500 Esztergom

Website: https://istergranum.eu/

Established in 2008, the Ister-Granum EGTC connects 46 Hungarian and 36 Slovak municipalities. It was Hungary’s first EGTC and Europe’s second. Since its founding, Ister-Granum EGTC has been involved in diverse activities such as tourism, economic development, transport, and environmental management. A key initiative has been developing a local product network, including the IG Heritage – Territorial Action Plan for Employment (TAPE) and the CB_Brand project, which promotes cross-border cooperation among local producers. The network has already registered 43 local producers under a trademark scheme. Other notable projects include a ferry construction initiative between Neszmély (HU) and Radvaň nad Dunajom (SK), increasing border crossing points, and the “Mária Valéria Bike” initiative, the public cross-border bicycle-sharing system in Esztergom and Štúrovo.

The Ister-Granum EGTC, representing local authorities and communities along the Hungarian-Slovak border, will lead the pilot action on cross-border marketing and promotion of local products. In collaboration with ER Nisa and Upper Austria, the EGTC will develop a guide to support local products and implement an integrated cross-border approach for expanding a local product network. Additionally, Ister-Granum EGTC will collaborate with the City of Frankfurt (Oder) on participatory governance for transition management in twin cities, involving Esztergom (HU) and Štúrovo (SK). The EGTC will ensure the continued development of the local product network and support cross-border governance through local and regional decision-makers.


NOVUM EGTC


Address: 1 Maja 27, 58-500 Jelenia Góra

Website: https://www.euwt-novum.eu/

The European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) NOVUM brings together the key regional players from both Poland and the Czech Republic. Its members include the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, Glacensis Euroregion, Euroregion Nisa, and several Czech regions such as Liberec, Královéhradecký, Pardubice, and Olomouc. EGTC NOVUM focuses on a wide range of regional development areas, including transport, infrastructure, tourism, culture, health protection, education, environmental protection, and energy. The organization fosters cross-border cooperation, promotes joint use of resources, and supports research, technological innovation, and social integration. With a strong track record in transnational cooperation, EGTC NOVUM has been involved in several projects aimed at capitalising on territorial cooperation, most recently participating in the BOOSTEE-CE project, which enhances energy efficiency in Central European cities.

The task of the organisation in this project is working on the pilot action for integrated cross-border strategy development, collaborating closely with the IRT, ER Nisa, and the SMR. This includes facilitating the creation of a citizen-oriented vision for trilateral development and promoting the exchange of spatial data, leveraging experience from the BOOSTEE-CE project. EGTC NOVUM also contributes to other pilot activities, including sustainable and slow tourism development. With a focus on fostering local and regional decision-making, EGTC NOVUM supports the implementation of a collaborative governance model and promotes a sustainable vision for the future of the border region.


State Government of Upper Austria


Address: Bahnhofplatz 1, 4021 Linz

Website: https://www.land-oberoesterreich.gv.at/

The State Government of Upper Austria, through its Department for Spatial Planning, plays a pivotal role in managing and coordinating cross-border cooperation programs. As the seat of the Managing Authority (MA) and Joint Secretariat (JS) for the Interreg A Cross-border Cooperation Programme Bavaria-Austria 2021-2027, the department brings valuable expertise from previous programming periods. Upper Austria’s Department for Spatial Planning is deeply involved in European cohesion policy, supporting local and regional development. Additionally, the department collaborates closely with Regionalmanagement OÖ to promote regional development, particularly in the border areas, further contributing to the success of cross-border projects.

The Government of Upper Austria is set to lead a pilot action focused on the joint management of border obstacles between Austria, Germany, and the Czech Republic, in collaboration with the SMIL and ER Nisa. The initiative will involve a comprehensive analysis of existing border obstacles, laying the foundation for a participatory governance process aimed at reducing these obstacles. In addition to this, Upper Austria will contribute to the development of a cross-border strategy and support the marketing and promotion of local products, using its vast network of regional stakeholders.

  • Charter

    Charter for participatory cross-border cooperation governance in Central Europe – challenges, needs and successful approaches

  • Multimedia learning platform

    Solutions (multimedia learning platform) for integrated cross-border development in Central Europe, addressing the fields of integrated planning, participatory governance and obstacle management

  • Pilot actions

    Pilot actions on integrated cross-border development in Central Europe, addressing the fields of integrated planning, participatory governance and obstacle management

  • New models and solutions

    Project partners and associated partners cooperating for the elaboration, the follow up and uptake and the dissemination of new models and solutions developed in the result of pilot activities

  • Pilot 1 – Integrated cross-border strategy development

    The aim of the pilot activity is to develop and to implement a joint governance model for integrated cross-border strategy development in the Three- Country Area between Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic.



  • Pilot 2 – Participatory governance for transition management in cross-border twin-cities

    The aim of the pilot activity is to establish a temporary twin-city dialogue forum, to exchange experiences, to learn from each other and to improve methods and practices of involvement of local cross-border communities.



  • Pilot 3 – Cross-border development of sustainable and slow tourism

    The aim of the pilot activity is to develop a model on cross-border development of sustainable and slow tourism and provide benefit for 27 Italian and 13 Slovenian municipalities in a cross-border area of Slovenia-Italy to improve cross-border sustainable tourism.



  • Pilot 4 – Cross-border marketing and promotion of local products

    The aim of the pilot activity is to roll-out and to evaluate a producer-oriented support mechanism for cross-border sales and distribution of local agricultural products in the Ister-Granum crossborder region by reducing border obstacles and facilitating the establishment of short (cross-border) supply chains.



  • Pilot 5 – Facilitation of joint management of border obstacles

    The aim of the pilot activity is to gain applicable knowledge on how to remove border obstacles in the trilateral cross-border area between Austria, Germany and the Czech Republic. As a part of the pilot concrete obstacles will be identified, 2-3 border obstacles will be selected to be discussed by stakeholders with an objective to find solutions how to overcome these obstacles.



Title: Participatory cross-border governance for transition management in central European cross-border regions

Acronym: BorderLabs CE

Project ID: CE0200537

Project duration: 01.06.2024 – 30.11.2026

Programme: Interreg Central Europe

Lead partner: Saxon State Ministry of Regional Development (Germany)

Partner countries: Germany, Austria, Italy, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary

Partner Budget: € 342.826,98 (ERDF € 274.261,58)

Budget for the call: € 1.710.608,72 (ERDF € 1.368.486,97)

Project partners:

  • Central European Service for Cross-Border Initiatives (CESCI, HU)
  • Dolnoslaskie Region – Institute for Territorial Development (IRT, PL)
  • Euroregion Nisa (ER Nisa, CZ)
  • City of Frankfurt (Oder), (Frankfurt (O), DE)
  • European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation – EGTC GO, (EGTC GO, IT)
  • Ister-Granum European Grouping for Territorial Cooperation Ltd. (EGTC IG, HU)
  • European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation NOVUM (EGTC NOVUM, PL)
  • State Government of Upper Austria (Upper-Austria, AT)

BorderLabs CE – Closing Workshop & Partner Meeting: Shaping Visions and Cooperation for Central Europe

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The BorderLabs CE Closing Workshop and Partner Meeting will bring project partners and experts together in Budapest on 6–7 October 2026 to reflect on the project’s achievements and explore opportunities for continued cooperation. The event will focus on the future ...
Have your say: Charter for participatory cross-border cooperation governance in Central Europe

Have your say: Charter for participatory cross-border cooperation governance in Central Europe

The Charter for participatory cross-border cooperation governance in Central Europe was presented at the BorderLabs CE project’s closing conference in Brussels as a shared vision for stronger cooperation across the region. We invite you to read the Charter and share ...
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The partners of the BorderLabs CE project held the closing conference in Brussels on 10 June 2026, as a side event of the European Cross-Border Platform’s annual meeting. The conference attracted a broad audience of nearly 100 participants representing EU ...
Cross-border everyday life in the Öresund region – BorderLabs CE study visit to Copenhagen and Malmö

Cross-border everyday life in the Öresund region – BorderLabs CE study visit to Copenhagen and Malmö

On 12-13 May 2026, the partners of the BorderLabs CE project took part in a study visit to the Danish-Swedish border region, organised by CESCI. The two-day programme in Copenhagen and Malmö explored how one of Europe’s best-known cross-border metropolitan ...
BorderLabs CE study visit in the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion

BorderLabs CE study visit in the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion

Between 15 and 16 April 2026, the partners of the BorderLabs CE project took a study trip to “the heart of Europe”, the trinational Meuse-Rhine Euroregion ...
European Cross-Border Platform – Annual meeting 2026

European Cross-Border Platform – Annual meeting 2026

The closing conference of the BorderLabs CE project, titled “Towards a Central European Territorial Agenda?”, will take place in Brussels on 10 June 2026 as a side event of the annual European Cross-Border Platform (ECBP) meeting. Supported by Interreg Central ...
Cross-border cooperation in the era of challenges and transformation – space, energy, climate, culture

Cross-border cooperation in the era of challenges and transformation – space, energy, climate, culture

On 4 March 2026, within the framework of the BorderLabsCE project implemented under the Interreg Central Europe programme, the Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences organised an international conference titled “Cross-border cooperation in the era of challenges and transformation ...
What makes cross-border cooperation work? Lessons from the BorderLabs CE study tour in the trinational region of Basel

What makes cross-border cooperation work? Lessons from the BorderLabs CE study tour in the trinational region of Basel

On 17-18 March 2026, the partners of the BorderLabs CE project visited the trinational region of Basel, one of Europe’s most advanced laboratories of cross-border cooperation. The participants met practitioners from Germany, France and Switzerland, and explored how cross-border governance ...
Partner meeting and thematic workshop of the BorderLabs CE project in Wrocław

Partner meeting and thematic workshop of the BorderLabs CE project in Wrocław

On 2 and 3 March, the partners of the BorderLabs CE project met in Wrocław, Poland, to discuss the prospective final steps of the project and to exchange knowledge on the management of cross-border legal obstacles. The guests were hosted ...
The third newsletter of the BorderLabs CE project has been published

The third newsletter of the BorderLabs CE project has been published

This newsletter summarizes the latest news and events of the BorderLabs CE project, presenting the results of cross-border cooperation in Central Europe, pilot experiences, and upcoming programs ...
Advancing Cross-Border Trade for Local Producers

Advancing Cross-Border Trade for Local Producers

 On 2 February, Ister Granum EGTC held its 3rd Regional Stakeholder Group (RSG) meeting in Štúrovo, bringing together key actors involved in supporting the cross-border sale of local products ...
Cross-Border Forestry Dialogue held in Bad Leonfelden

Cross-Border Forestry Dialogue held in Bad Leonfelden

Representatives from Austrian and Czech forestry, veterinary, emergency and administrative authorities met to strengthen cross-border cooperation along the Upper Austrian–South Bohemian border. The meeting highlighted that cooperation already works well in some regions, while in others—particularly in the Freistadt district—clear ...
Cross-Border Information Evening in Reichersberg

Cross-Border Information Evening in Reichersberg

Reichersberg, 6 November 2025 — More than 140 people joined the information evening “Arbeiten drent & herent” (“Working here and there”), held at the FACC Academy in Reichersberg, to learn about the realities of cross-border employment in the Upper Austria–Lower Bavaria region. With nearly ...
BorderLabs CE – Partner meeting and thematic workshop in the European Capital of Culture

BorderLabs CE – Partner meeting and thematic workshop in the European Capital of Culture

The partners of the BorderLabs CE project convened in Gorizia on the 21st and 22nd of October. This year, the Italian town (established in 1001) is the European Capital of Culture with its Slovenian twin town, Nova Gorica (established in ...
The second newsletter of the BorderLabs CE project has been published

The second newsletter of the BorderLabs CE project has been published

The BorderLabs CE project aims to strengthen cross-border cooperation and development in Central Europe, and this newsletter serves as a guide to everything that happens during the implementation of the project. The second issue presents the partner meeting and workshop ...
Double Cities Dialogue Forum – Dialogue on Diversity in European Twin Cities

Double Cities Dialogue Forum – Dialogue on Diversity in European Twin Cities

The first Double Cities Dialogue Forum took place on 2-3 June 2025, hosted by Frankfurt (Oder)-Słubice in cooperation with the European Viadrina University. The aim of the forum was for residents and representatives of European twin cities – including participants ...
Cross-border planning in Central Europe. First thematic workshop of the BorderLabs CE project in Dresden

Cross-border planning in Central Europe. First thematic workshop of the BorderLabs CE project in Dresden

The partners of the BorderLabs CE project, co-financed by the Interreg Central Europe Programme, organised the first thematic workshop dedicated to methods and experiences of cross-border planning on 7 May 2025 in Dresden. The speakers discussed the topic through theoretical ...
EGTC GO kicks off BorderLabs CE to build a greener, bike-friendly cross-border region

EGTC GO kicks off BorderLabs CE to build a greener, bike-friendly cross-border region

The EGTC GO has officially launched its role in the EU-funded BorderLabs CE project, aimed at fostering sustainable and collaborative cross-border development. At the heart of EGTC GO’s mission lies the creation of a cross-border model for slow and sustainable ...
No borders for local flavors – Ister-Granum EGTC joins the BorderLabs CE project

No borders for local flavors – Ister-Granum EGTC joins the BorderLabs CE project

On April 24, the Ister-Granum EGTC officially joined the BorderLabs CE project with a regional kick-off conference and the first local stakeholder meeting. The event focused on identifying market barriers for local producers in the Slovak-Hungarian border region and exploring ...
Call for participation in a procurement procedure (BorderLabs CE)

Call for participation in a procurement procedure (BorderLabs CE)

CESCI is seeking external expertise for the production of audiovisual content related to its project "BorderLabs CE", supported by the Interreg Central Europe programme ...
Regional Kick-Off in Zittau: Strengthening Cross-Border Cooperation in the Three-Country Area

Regional Kick-Off in Zittau: Strengthening Cross-Border Cooperation in the Three-Country Area

On March 12, 2025, Zittau (Germany) hosted the regional kick-off conference for the pilot on integrated cross-border strategy development. Around 40 participants from Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic gathered to discuss the region’s challenges and opportunities for deeper integration ...
Regional kick-off conference in Germany (BorderLabs CE)

Regional kick-off conference in Germany (BorderLabs CE)

The regional kick-off conference, to be held in Zittau on March 12, 2025, will focus on strengthening cross-border relations in the three-country region, with discussions and workshops on the “Mental Bridges” approach and local government aspects ...
BorderLabs CE Regional Kick-off Conference in Freistadt and Munderfing: Strengthening cross-border cooperation in the Upper Austrian Region

BorderLabs CE Regional Kick-off Conference in Freistadt and Munderfing: Strengthening cross-border cooperation in the Upper Austrian Region

On February 25, 2025, the Upper Austrian kick-off meetings in Freistadt and Munderfing marked the regional launch of the BorderLabs CE project, aimed at overcoming border obstacles. Organised alongside euroregion board meetings, the event gathered regional leaders, policymakers, and experts ...
Regional Kick-off Conference in Upper-Austria (BorderLabs CE)

Regional Kick-off Conference in Upper-Austria (BorderLabs CE)

The BorderLabs CE regional kick-off conference in Upper Austria will be held in two locations, Freistadt and Munderfing. The event aims to strengthen cross-border cooperation and define the strategic directions of the project ...
The first newsletter of the BorderLabs CE project has been published

The first newsletter of the BorderLabs CE project has been published

The BorderLabs CE project is dedicated to strengthening cross-border cooperation and development in Central Europe, and this newsletter is your guide to everything what happens during the project implementation. In the first issue, you will get a glimpse of who ...
Highlights from the BorderLabs CE Kick-Off Conference

Highlights from the BorderLabs CE Kick-Off Conference

The BorderLabs CE project was officially launched on November 13, 2024, at the Bálna, Budapest, bringing together key professionals, project partners, representatives of the Joint Secretariat of the Interreg Central Europe Programme, representatives of projects implemented in similar field to ...
Report on the Art of Cooperation conference

Report on the Art of Cooperation conference

The Széchenyi Programme Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in partnership with the European Committee of the Regions, the Central European Service for Cross-border Initiatives (CESCI), the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR) and the Hungarian Development ...
The international kick-off conference of BorderLabs CE project

The international kick-off conference of BorderLabs CE project

The kick-off conference of BorderLabs CE implemented within the Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE programme will focus on the introduction of the project, presentation of the 5 pilot activities in the field of integrated cross-border strategy development, cross-border development of sustainable and ...
Technical kick-off of the BorderLabs CE transnational project

Technical kick-off of the BorderLabs CE transnational project

Upon the invitation of the Saxon State Ministry for Regional Development as Lead Partner, the consortium of the ‘Participatory cross-border governance for transition management in central European cross-border regions’ (acronym: BorderLabs CE) project held its kick-off meeting in Meissen ...

The following procurement is not a public procurement procedure. The call is complete and valid with the attached tender form and reference letter.

Subject of the procurement: Production of audiovisual content for the BorderLabs CE project

Title of the procurement: BorderLabs-Video

Purpose of the procurement: the Central European Service for Cross-border Initiatives is seeking external expertise for the production of audiovisual content related to its project “Participatory cross-border governance for transition management in central European cross-border regions”, abbreviated as “BorderLabs CE”, code number “CE0200537”, supported by the Interreg Central Europe programme.

The BorderLabs CE project explores cross-border cooperation in Central Europe along three technical aspects (1. cross-border strategic planning; 2. participatory cross-border governance; 3. addressing cross-border legal and administrative obstacles). New cooperation models and solutions will be developed and tested in five pilot sites related to the three technical aspects. In order to support capacity development of the cross-border cooperation communities in Central Europe, the professional information and knowledge gathered under the project will be shared by the project partners through a multimedia learning platform. The aim of the videos to be produced under the procurement is to produce attractive videos useful for knowledge sharing and training on the multimedia learning platform.

Download (documents available in Hungarian): Call for Proposals, Call for Proposals (signed), Tender Form, Statement of References

Call date: 22 April 2025.

Deadline for receipt of tenders: 29 April 2025, 15:00 (CET).

How to submit a tender: by e-mail to the main email address of the contracting authority (cesci@cesci-net.eu) with the subject line “BorderLabs-Videó [AJÁNLAT]”



Key information related to the call for tenders (see call for more details)

Bids for the following cost items will be required on the bid form:

  • 15 short videos of the pilots,
  • 5 longer videos of the pilots,
  • 1 medium-length video of the project,
  • 3 short animations on the technical aspects of the project.

In order to ensure comparability of the quotations, please include all other fees incurred in each cost item!

The maximum amount available for the project is HUF 24 000 000 gross. If no valid tender is received for the requested technical content within the specified amount, the Contracting Authority will consider the call for tenders to be invalid.

The main contact for the assignment will be CESCI, however, the working language for the communication with the pilot partners will be English.

The expected completion date for the audiovisual products is 31 December 2025.

]]> Territorial Action Plan for Employment https://budapest.cesci-net.eu/en/territorial-action-plan-for-employment/ Thu, 09 Jan 2020 13:56:35 +0000 https://budapest.cesci-net.eu/territorial-action-plan-for-employment/ .avia-section.av-jyoeyfst-8d8b342696632415a576a62ac0e2cbd1{ background-repeat:no-repeat; background-image:url(https://budapest.cesci-net.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ViaCarpati_TAPE-1030x565.jpg); background-position:50% 50%; background-attachment:scroll; } .avia-section.av-jyoeyfst-8d8b342696632415a576a62ac0e2cbd1 .av-section-color-overlay{ opacity:0.6; background-color:#ffffff; }

TAPE

Territorial Action Plan for Employment

In the framework of the Slovakia-Hungary INTERREG V-A programme the CESCI staff developed a new tool in 2014 called Territorial Action Plan for Employment (TAPE). The novel solution aims to help the implementation of cross-border integrated developments by bringing actors of the two sides of the border together to jointly work out an integrated plan with the maximum of 8 projects and with the aim of supporting the employment situation and cross-border labour mobility.

The tool – which is identified as a good practice by the Interact Secretariat – makes it possible that instead of one-off, random developments, the cross-border regions can work together in the long run along well-defined strategic goals.

Following the two-step application procedure, applicants needed to submit a comprehensive development plan (TAPE) describing their main objectives and activities, which in the first round was taken place in December 2018. After the selection of the best TAPEs, the project promoters were invited to divide and detail their ideas into 3-8 project proposals complementing or strengthening each other. One of the projects had to be dedicated to coordination and communication activities related to the implementation of the projects by the project partners within a 4-year period. Due to the thematic focus of the tool, besides the public authorities, EGTCs and NGOs, SMEs seated in the particular border area are also eligible for ERDF funding.

The final decision on the supported projects was made in mid-April by the Monitoring Committee as a result of which 9 TAPEs with 47 projects. The list of the successful applications is available here. The thematic focus of the action plans is quite colourful, including the branding of local products, setting-up short supply chains, development of SMEs as suppliers of multinational companies, SME and educational developments in the field of metal-processing etc. Then the projects  stepped into the contracting phase, thus, the first one, the TAPE coordinated by the Via Carpathia EGTC was launched at the autumn of 2019.

CESCI has undertaken an active role at several stages of the process. In 2017 we assisted the work of the Slovakian-Hungarian Joint Secretariat in the preparation of the relevant tender (background documents, evaluation guide etc.); as well as provided expertise for 6 action plans at the request of local actors (including design-workshops and fieldwork). We provided guidance for three further action plans, but we did not take part in the elaboration process itself. In accordance with the two-round application system, we helped to develop action plans for four TAPEs in 2018. We also supported the Joint Secretariat with advice throughout the whole process.

Supported TAPEs

Source of the photo in the header: Via Carpatia ETT

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