Research and Innovation background
- Transport Development Strategy of the Republic of Croatia (2017 - 2030): This document represents the second phase of the development of the Transport Development Strategy of the Republic of Croatia for the period 2014-2030. It can be considered a complete national strategic document based on comprehensive traffic data and a national traffic model. The strategy is complemented by urban mobility plans in cities like Zagreb, which focus on improving public transport, reducing traffic congestion, and integrating smart transport solutions. These documents collectively guide the transport R&I efforts in Croatia, aiming to enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of the country's transport systems.
- River Transport Development Strategy 2022-2032: Focuses on innovation in inland waterway transport, including port modernisation, digital navigation systems, and sustainable freight logistics integration.
- Maritime Development and Integrated Maritime Policy Strategy of the Republic of Croatia: Includes green shipping, port electrification, and maritime environmental technologies, supporting research and innovation in low-emission vessels and port operations.
(Last updated: 18/05/2026)
Institutional framework of transport research
- Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure: State administration body responsible for maritime, inland waterways, road, rail and air transport, cableways, postal services, electronic communications and pertaining infrastructure. The Ministry is also responsible for the protection of seas from pollution from ships and the maritime domain. It prepares strategic documents and legislative proposals concerning the mentioned areas, monitors the implementation of the legislation in those areas and organises preparation of strategic infrastructure projects and programmes for all transport modes that are considered of special importance for the Republic of Croatia. The Ministry coordinates EU-funded transport research in Croatia.
- HZ Infrastruktura (rail infrastructure manager): A state-owned Croatian railway infrastructure manager responsible for the operation, maintenance, modernisation and development of the national rail network. It plays a central role in delivering large-scale rail innovation and infrastructure investment projects, including ERTMS deployment and infrastructure modernisation
- University of Zagreb – Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences (FPZ): Main national transport research centre leading or participating in over 170 applied transport research and development projects across logistics, ITS, rail and urban mobility. Contributes to innovation through publications, pilot projects and collaboration with industry and public authorities. The transport research centre plays a central role in developing, testing and advancing transport innovations.
(Last updated: 18/05/2026)
Funding Sources and Support Initiatives
- The Croatian Science Foundation (HRZZ): A primary source of research funding, offering grants for projects that contribute to scientific excellence and innovation across various sectors, including transport topics such as mobility systems, logistic optimisation and energy efficient transport.
- Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund (FZOEU): A central Croatian public funding body that finances projects in environmental protection, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. It provides grants, subsidies and financial instruments to public authorities, companies and citizens to support the implementation of green transition measures including low-emission transport and energy systems.
(Last updated: 18/05/2026)