The ITC FOOD – Innovative Training and Competences in Agri‑Food project has emerged as a powerful cross‑border initiative aimed at transforming the agri‑food industry across the South Adriatic region. Officially launched under the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Programme 2021–2027, this project brings together partners from Italy, Albania, and Montenegro to enhance competitiveness, promote innovation, and foster sustainable growth throughout the agri‑food sector.

A Collaborative Framework for a Stronger Future

The project is led by the Local Action Group Sud Est Barese (Italy) and includes a diverse consortium of partners:

• University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Italy
• Gal Molise Rurale, Italy
• Regional Development Agency – Ulcinj Business Association, Montenegro
• National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES), Albania
• Spoonbill Nest Innovation Center (SNIC), Albania

Together, these organizations aim to strengthen the agri‑food ecosystem by tackling shared challenges such as limited access to advanced training, gaps in digital skills, difficulties entering international markets, and uneven progress in ecological transition.

What ITC FOOD Offers

ITC FOOD combines professional education, digital innovation, and cross‑border cooperation to empower small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agricultural and food sectors. Key elements of the project include:

Advanced Training Programs: Specialized courses delivered both online and in person, focusing on digitalization, circular economy practices, energy efficiency, and sustainable resource management.
Digital Learning Platform: A centralized hub where SMEs from Italy, Albania, and Montenegro can access training, exchange resources, and connect with industry peers.
Knowledge Exchange: Workshops, study visits, and seminars that facilitate the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions across regions.
Cluster Development: Formation of local and transnational agri‑food clusters that bring together producers, researchers, and public institutions to drive innovation and competitiveness.
A Model for Regional Integration and Sustainable Growth

By integrating training, digital tools, and collaborative networks, ITC FOOD is laying the foundation for a more resilient and forward‑looking agri‑food industry in the South Adriatic. Its vision transcends national boundaries, creating a cooperative framework that supports economic development and unlocks new market opportunities for SMEs.

Events such as the official kick‑off meeting in Bari — which included delegation exchanges between Italian, Albanian, and Montenegrin stakeholders, as well as company visits — demonstrated the project’s focus on hands‑on learning and practical collaboration.

Looking Ahead

With a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, the ITC FOOD project exemplifies how cross‑border cooperation can be a catalyst for growth in the agri‑food sector. As training programs expand and the digital platform becomes fully operational, SMEs across the region will be better equipped to compete in global markets and adapt to future challenges.

Source: https://www.telebari.it/attualita/233631-dalla-puglia-al-montenegro-per-promuovere-lagroalimentare-itc-food-punta-alla-formazione-avanzata-video.html

The ITC FOOD – Innovative Training and Competences in Agri‑Food project has emerged as a powerful cross‑border initiative aimed at transforming the agri‑food industry across the South Adriatic region. Officially launched under the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Programme 2021–2027, this project brings together partners from Italy, Albania, and Montenegro to enhance competitiveness, promote innovation, and foster sustainable growth throughout the agri‑food sector.

A Collaborative Framework for a Stronger Future

The project is led by the Local Action Group Sud Est Barese (Italy) and includes a diverse consortium of partners:

• University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Italy
• Gal Molise Rurale, Italy
• Regional Development Agency – Ulcinj Business Association, Montenegro
• National Agency for Employment and Skills (NAES), Albania
• Spoonbill Nest Innovation Center (SNIC), Albania

Together, these organizations aim to strengthen the agri‑food ecosystem by tackling shared challenges such as limited access to advanced training, gaps in digital skills, difficulties entering international markets, and uneven progress in ecological transition.

What ITC FOOD Offers

ITC FOOD combines professional education, digital innovation, and cross‑border cooperation to empower small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agricultural and food sectors. Key elements of the project include:

Advanced Training Programs: Specialized courses delivered both online and in person, focusing on digitalization, circular economy practices, energy efficiency, and sustainable resource management.
Digital Learning Platform: A centralized hub where SMEs from Italy, Albania, and Montenegro can access training, exchange resources, and connect with industry peers.
Knowledge Exchange: Workshops, study visits, and seminars that facilitate the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions across regions.
Cluster Development: Formation of local and transnational agri‑food clusters that bring together producers, researchers, and public institutions to drive innovation and competitiveness.
A Model for Regional Integration and Sustainable Growth

By integrating training, digital tools, and collaborative networks, ITC FOOD is laying the foundation for a more resilient and forward‑looking agri‑food industry in the South Adriatic. Its vision transcends national boundaries, creating a cooperative framework that supports economic development and unlocks new market opportunities for SMEs.

Events such as the official kick‑off meeting in Bari — which included delegation exchanges between Italian, Albanian, and Montenegrin stakeholders, as well as company visits — demonstrated the project’s focus on hands‑on learning and practical collaboration.

Looking Ahead

With a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, the ITC FOOD project exemplifies how cross‑border cooperation can be a catalyst for growth in the agri‑food sector. As training programs expand and the digital platform becomes fully operational, SMEs across the region will be better equipped to compete in global markets and adapt to future challenges.

Source: https://www.telebari.it/attualita/233631-dalla-puglia-al-montenegro-per-promuovere-lagroalimentare-itc-food-punta-alla-formazione-avanzata-video.html