Posted on 26 Jan 2026
ITC FOOD Project Launched to Strengthen Agri-Food SMEs Across Italy, Albania and Montenegro
The ITC FOOD – Innovative Training and Competences in Agri-Food project (SA-03000372) has officially started as a cross-border initiative funded by the European Union under the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Programme 2021–2027, with implementation running from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2027.
The project’s main objective is to increase the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agri-food sector, enhance cross-border cooperation between Italy, Albania and Montenegro, and support sustainable growth and digital transformation in a rapidly evolving market environment.
With a total budget of €931,910.96, including €765,566.92 in EU co-financing, ITC FOOD represents a major regional investment in innovation, skills development, and long-term economic resilience.
The project is coordinated by Local Action Group Sud-Est Barese Scarl (Italy) as Lead Partner and implemented together with the National Agency for Employment and Skills – AKPA (Albania), the University of Bari Aldo Moro (Italy), Spoonbill Nest Innovation Center (Albania), the Regional Development Agency – Ulcinj Business Association (Montenegro), and Local Action Group Molise Rurale Scarl (Italy).
ITC FOOD will deliver a comprehensive set of actions designed to modernize and connect agri-food businesses across borders, including specialized training modules on innovative agri-food practices, digital tools, and sustainable business models; the development of a digital platform for online learning, resource sharing, and SME networking; cross-border workshops, study visits and seminars to exchange knowledge and best practices; pilot projects and demonstration initiatives such as productive districts and a cross-border production consortium; and the creation of local and transnational clusters to stimulate innovation and long-term cooperation.
By combining professional training, digitalization and structured international collaboration, ITC FOOD aims to create a stronger, more innovative and competitive agri-food ecosystem throughout the South Adriatic region, supporting SMEs in accessing new opportunities and sustainable growth pathways.