The European Commission’s declared primary aim is to achieve ‘equal living standards’ in all Member States. To this end, programmes exist in all areas of activity and responsibility under which calls for proposals for EU projects are regularly published. Health and health tourism programmes include EDEN“ and „CALYPSO“  which are open to not just local authorities and public institutions but also private individuals, associations and universities. These programmes are regularly devised to last a number of years and are published on the internet.

Permanent access to current information is essential when defining and elaborating projects. ESPA can use its network to help members find suitable project partners. All projects must be geared to creating new jobs or safeguarding existing ones. It is mandatory for each project to be managed by a project leader. ESPA can help by evaluating corresponding EU programmes since they form the legal basis. Bear in mind that since EU projects are not wholly funded by the EU, co-financing is required.

Contracts and grants

The European Commission allocates part of the EU budget to companies and organisations in the form of calls for tender, grants or funds and other financing programmes.

Contracts

The Commission uses public contracts to buy in goods and services – studies, technical assistance and training; consultancy, conference and publicity services; books and IT equipment etc.

Beginners' guide to EU public contracts
How to tender for a Commission contract – with guidance on the different types of contract, finding a contract that's relevant to your business and filling out the forms.

Public contracts by EU policy
Calls for tender issued by Commission departments, offices and agencies around Europe.

Grants

The Commission makes direct financial contributions in the form of grants in support of projects or organisations which further the interests of the EU or contribute to the implementation of an EU programme or policy.

Beginners' guide to EU grants and funding
How to find funding opportunities under the new EU rules for 2007-13. Also, how much is available under each programme.

Grants, funds and programmes by EU policy
EU grants available from Commission departments, offices and agencies around Europe.

EU Fundings and Grants »