Deliverable 5.1 presents an in-depth analysis of the Smart Specialisation Strategy priorities of keyEuropean regions and their alignment with EU Mission Ocean’s objectives. Further, it analyses whatthe most promising areas for further action in support of Mission Ocean are and how these can bepursued. The report also presents EU-level initiatives and funding opportunities for interregionalcollaboration, supporting regions interested in innovating their blue policies in understanding how tomake use of existing opportunities and ground them in their regional policymaking. It analyses,compares and benchmarks the funding mechanisms of selected regions in relation to bluegrowth/sustainable blue economy and innovation to identify innovative inner- and interregionalfunding and methods to accelerate reaching the objectives of Mission Ocean by 2030. The report alsolists promising EU funding and support mechanisms for regions and provides examples of how to usethe new ERDF Interregional Innovation Instrument (I3) to support regions in accelerating marketuptake of pilots and demonstrations in support of Mission Ocean’s objectives. Finally, the reportpresents case studies to illustrate successful interregional collaboration opportunities and inspirefurther collaboration between regional stakeholders.