Resumen
The paper describes the processes of establishing Shift2Rail JU, and its preliminary and current operation. The focus is on functions in legal, financial, innovative, and best practice areas related to making railway sector competitive, efficient, and aimed to ensure the regional and global sustainable development in Europe. The important role of member states within Shift2Rail JU in coordination of the national and European policies, ensuring transparent and balanced access to research and innovation projects for Central and Eastern European countries. The reason for motivation for SMEs and academia in the mentioned countries also is a significant part of the presentation.