The IH-MIE project (Interregional Hydrogen Mobility Initiative for Europe) works to strengthen regional hydrogen ecosystems, support SMEs, and reduce territorial disparities through interregional and cross-border cooperation.

Currently, transport accounts for nearly 25% of greenhouse gas emissions in Europe, positioning renewable hydrogen as a key solution, particularly for sectors such as heavy transport, logistics, and long-distance operations, where conventional electrification faces greater limitations. Among its main lines of action, the project promotes pilot demonstrations, capacity-building activities, interregional cooperation, and direct support for small and medium-sized enterprises.

One of the project’s most significant milestones is the launch of a cascade funding call aimed at European SMEs. This initiative will support up to 30 companies through direct financial support, specialised advisory services, and guidance for the validation and scaling-up of innovative solutions, with funding of up to €60,000 per SME.

The call will focus on hydrogen-based mobility technologies with Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 6–9, meaning solutions that are close to validation in real environments or pilot deployment. Priority areas include hydrogen refuelling technologies, fuel cell systems, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and other related solutions.

The National Hydrogen Centre (CNH2) plays a prominent role within the project, acting as leader of the work package focused on the integration and demonstration of technologies linked to seven specific use cases.

In addition, CNH2 will provide technical support to the SMEs selected under the call by offering specialised services such as:

–  Technical advisory services for the design and adaptation of hydrogen-based solutions.

–  Access to infrastructure and testing facilities for prototype validation.

– Training and capacity-building activities for technical personnel.