IH-MIE is promoting hydrogen-based mobility in Europe and will launch a call for proposals to support SMEs in June 2026

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The transition towards climate-neutral transport continues to gain momentum in Europe, and hydrogen mobility is establishing itself as one of the strategic pillars for achieving decarbonisation targets. In this context, the IH-MIE (Interregional Hydrogen Mobility Initiative for Europe) project is working to strengthen regional hydrogen ecosystems, support SMEs and reduce regional disparities through interregional and cross-border cooperation.

Currently, transport accounts for around 25% of greenhouse gas emissions in Europe, making renewable hydrogen a key solution, particularly for sectors such as heavy goods transport, logistics and long-distance operations, where conventional electrification faces greater limitations.

However, significant challenges remain regarding the availability of refuelling infrastructure, production costs, the fragmentation of technological ecosystems, and the disparities between more advanced and emerging regions. To address these barriers, IH-MIE is committed to a strategy based on European collaboration, capacity building and the acceleration of innovative solutions.

Among its key areas of focus, the project promotes pilot demonstrations, training activities, interregional cooperation and direct support for small and medium-sized enterprises. Within this framework, IH-MIE operates an Interregional Hydrogen Mobility Centre, designed to serve as a hub connecting regions, businesses, investors and European institutions to facilitate innovation and the market launch of new technological solutions.

Call for funding applications for SMEs in June 2026

One of the project’s key milestones will be the launch, in June 2026, of a cascade funding call aimed at European SMEs. This initiative will provide support to up to 30 companies through direct funding, specialist advice and guidance on validating and scaling up innovative solutions.

The call for proposals will focus on hydrogen-based mobility technologies with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 6–9, meaning solutions nearing validation in real-world environments or pilot deployment. Priority areas include hydrogen refuelling technologies, fuel cell systems, hydrogen-powered vehicles and other related solutions.

The role of CNH2 in IH-MIE

The Spanish National Hydrogen Centre (CNH2) plays a leading role in the project, acting as the lead partner for the work package focused on the integration and demonstration of technologies related to seven specific use cases.

In addition, the CNH2 will provide technical support to the SMEs selected through the call for applications, offering specialist services such as:

  • Technical advice on the design and adaptation of hydrogen-based solutions.
  • Access to facilities and test benches for prototype validation.
  • Training and development for technical staff.

For more information, visit: www.ihmie.eu

 

Cofunded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Implemented within the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument project “IH-MIE – Interregional Hydrogen Mobility Initiative for Europe” (Grant Agreement No. 101228317).