What is the purpose of the Common Maritime Agenda (CMA)?
The CMA has been set up to establish broad cross-sector cooperation in the Black Sea basin to address common maritime and blue economy challenges between the participating countries.
By endorsing the CMA in 2019, countries of the Black Sea region commit to more political and operational cooperation, and to a new dynamic for a more coordinated governance of maritime affairs and blue economy in the sea basin.
Joint projects are implemented to achieve the three (3) main goals:
- Healthy marine and coastal ecosystems;
- A competitive, innovative and sustainable blue economy for the Black Sea, and
- Fostering Investment in the Black Sea blue economy.
These goals are further divided into ten priorities, and translated into specific actions. These actions should be taken into account when developing project ideas. Read More
What is the role of the Black Sea Assistance Mechanism (BSAM)?
The BSAM is an EU-funded project that supports the implementation of the CMA in the Black Sea region.
BSAM central management team oversees and guides the project implementation, while national hubs (NHs) from each of the participant countries coordinate national stakeholder involvement and engagement.
The NHs liaise with local, regional, and national stakeholders to promote collaboration, spread information on funding opportunities, and assist interested parties in conceptualising their project ideas in line with the CMA goals and priorities.
What is the role of the Black Sea Virtual Knowledge Center (BSVKC) in the CMA?
Cooperation and coordination with the Black Sea Virtual Knowledge Center (BSVKC) are key for the implementation of the CMA.
BSVKC provides a central forum for stakeholders to share and access information on the blue economy in the Black Sea, thereby strengthening synergies between parties and projects involved.
The Black Sea Assistance Mechanism (BSAM) works closely with BSVKC by sharing any relevant information with the Permanent International Secretariat (PERMIS) of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), which ensures the management of the BSVKC.
What is the role of Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for the Black Sea (SRIA) / Black Sea Connect in the CMA?
Cooperation and coordination with Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for the Black Sea (SRIA)/ Black Sea Connect are key for the implementation of the CMA.
Black Sea CONNECT is a Horizon 2020 coordination and support action implementing the development of the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA), the research and innovation pillar of the CMA.
The SRIA addresses fundamental Black Sea challenges and promotes blue economy and economic growth in the region. It develops innovative research infrastructures and enhances education and capacity building.
What types of projects and stakeholders does the BSAM support?
The BSAM supports both national and regional projects supporting the CMA goals and priorities.
Thanks to the active roles played by National Hubs in each CMA country, the BSAM invites all types of cross-sectoral stakeholders (individuals, private companies, public bodies, NGOs, research centres, etc.) to participate in partner matchmaking for cooperative project development.
How can I keep up-to-date with funding opportunities for CMA implementation?
Funding Opportunities section of our website gathers information on opportunities at the European, National and Regional levels.
Although the information is on opportunities is regularly updated, this is not an exhaustive list. Make sure you check the page frequently, as new funding opportunities could be available soon.
How can I find out if my project is eligible for a certain funding programme or call?
Calls for funding usually list eligibility criteria, including type of applicant and/or project, location, funding criteria, budget range.
If you are still uncertain about eligibility of your project and alignment with the CMA, please contact the National Hub in your country. Hub members will assist you and direct you to the information you need.
Who should I contact if I need further assistance?
If you wish to contact BSAM team, please email: helpdesk@black-sea-maritime-agenda.ec.europa.eu.
For country-specific support you can also contact the National Hub in your country.