TWIST (Transnational Water Innovation Strategy) is an Interreg Sudoe project focused on strengthening research, development and innovation in the water sector across participating regions. Co-financed by the Interreg Sudoe programme through the European Regional Development Fund, it brings together relevant water-sector stakeholders to build transnational and interregional partnerships and support progress toward the objectives of the Water Framework Directive.

The project’s work includes a shared strategy that encourages mutual learning and draws on regional smart-specialisation priorities. Its Water Living Labs provide settings for designing, testing and evaluating innovations, while its approach to innovative public procurement aims to encourage research and innovation by research centres and companies. TWIST also offers a Transnational Business School, with training on circular-economy business models related to water management. Its virtual TWIST Market Place is intended to help water-sector participants connect and collaborate through an open-innovation model involving public authorities, businesses, researchers and civil society. Together, these activities support cooperation and the development of innovative solutions for water management.