Innovation Projects

Public sector innovation projects are funded through the Innovation Fund and the Innovation Programme. During the current EU funding period, the Innovation Fund supports projects that seek solutions for implementing the changes identified in the Estonia 2035 strategy by applying new knowledge and technologies. The Innovation Programme is an approximately eight-month design-thinking-based programme for developing public services. Since 2019, four Innovation Programmes have been carried out, involving a total of 26 projects.

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    1.2.1. Innovative Technological Solutions for Detecting Prohibited Items and Substances in Prisons

    Fotol on Viru vangla sisemus koos valvurikabiiniga.

    Prisons face a significant challenge in detecting prohibited substances and items brought in by visitors or sent in packages. In 2022, prisons received more than 11,000 visitors, at least 3,000 of whom took part in long-term visits with prisoners. Statistics show that the number of criminal proceedings related to narcotic substances increased by 345% in 2022 compared with the previous year. Most of these proceedings were initiated after prisoners who had participated in long-term visits tested positive in urine tests.

    Project duration: 2023–2025
    The project was funded by the Public Sector Innovation Fund.

    Read more (in Estonian): Uudsed tehnoloogilised lahendused keelatud esemete ja ainete avastamiseks vanglates

    Last updated on 29.09.2025

     

    Activities and projects in the field of innovation are funded under the European Union Cohesion Policy 2021–2027 measure.

    ESF logo inglise keeles
    innovatsioon innovation projects

    Last updated: 23.02.2026

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