Initiated by Europa Cinemas with the support of Creative Europe/MEDIA in 2021, COLLABORATE TO INNOVATE is a new flagship scheme which aims to reward outstanding innovative and collaborative projects implemented by Europa Cinemas Network members from the same country or at a European level. The projects supported must have a real impact on the film sector, promote the circulation and visibility of European films, develop their audiences, in particular young people, and increase the skills and competitiveness of cinemas. One of the main priorities of this scheme is also to encourage exhibitors to integrate inclusion and environmental sustainability into their approach. Europa Cinemas' financial contribution amounts to a maximum of €100,000 per project.
In 2021, 15 projects have been selected for support in the framework of COLLABORATE TO INNOVATE. 13 new projects have been supported for the second edition of the programme in 2022.