The EU programme Interreg Öresund-Kattegat-Skagerrak (ÖKS) aims to invest €140 million, in cross-border projects that solve common societal challenges in southern Scandinavia, for the programme period 2021–2027.

The core belief of the programme is that cross-border cooperation fosters connection and creates added value. Diverse perspectives enhance our knowledge and strengthen our ability to solve problems.

The money that Interreg ÖKS invests comes primarily from the European Regional Development Fund. Part of the money also comes from the Norwegian state making the three-country cooperation by Öresund-Kattegat-Skagerrak possible.

Through Interreg, a development that drives change for companies, municipalities, regions, and countries is emphasized. A change that also benefits Europe and the world, but which above all contributes to a better life for the people living in southern Scandinavia.

Four Focus Areas

The projects of Interreg ÖKS work to solve societal challenges within four focus areas:

• Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Green Transition
• Transport and Mobility
• Borderless Labour Market

The project falls under the priority area of a Borderless Labour Market, with the specific goal of promoting a seamless cross-border labour market region.

Borderless Labour Market

Through the Cross-border Talent Bridge, we aim to achieve this by attracting and retaining talent, strengthening cross-regional collaboration, and preparing the workforce to thrive in a cross-border context.

Interreg ÖKS and the UN Global Goals

Interreg Öresund-Kattegat-Skagerrak invests EU money in projects that, in a sustainable way, want to solve different types of societal challenges. To put these societal challenges into a larger context, the projects work towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

UN Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Projects funded by the programme drive change that are in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The Cross-border Talent Bridge project strongly aligns with Goal 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth:
"Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all."

Through this initiative, we aim to foster cross-border collaboration that supports economic development, creates quality employment opportunities, and ensures fair and inclusive workplaces for individuals across regions. By building pathways for talent mobility and supporting local economies, we contribute directly to sustainable growth and decent work for all.

Learn more about Goal 8

”Our projects cross borders so that we do not lose our Scandinavian competitiveness, to avoid unemployment and a labour market with closed borders. Some of our projects work with individuals - to create more or new types of jobs. Other projects focus on helping companies and entrepreneurs.” -Interreg ÖKS