Introduction to European partnerships

The UK is still a full member of the EU, and UK applicants are eligible for EU funding until the end of the current Programmes. The External Funding Team would urge potential applicants to make the most of the opportunity while it still exists and are here to help.  Email  funding@norfolk.gov.uk for more information. 

What is Interreg? 

Interreg is the key instrument of the European Union to support cooperation between partners across borders in order to tackle common challenges together and find shared solutions – whether in the field of health, research and education, transport or sustainable energy.

Norfolk is within the eligible area for two cross border programmes; the 2 Seas programme, and the France (Channel) England programme. The transnational programmes North Sea Region and North West Europe are also within scope for Norfolk applicants as is the interregional Interreg Europe programme which covers all of the EU.

Each of these programmes has its own eligible area as well as its own priorities and objectives. See the individual project pages for more information and examples of the kind of projects funded.

How do I apply?

Find below some points to think about when you are considering applying for an Interreg programme.

Interreg introduction

How do I submit a project proposal?

For all Interreg (EU) programmes, applicants must respond to calls for proposals which will have specific deadlines and whose terms and references might vary. All the application are two stage processes. The first step is an outline application or 'Expression of Interest' whose precision may differ from one programme to another. Only the projects that have been approved in the first stage application are invited to submit a full application in order to get funded.

Details of the various calls for proposals can be found on the individual programme pages in this section.

What makes a strong partnership?

Interreg programmes are based on cooperation between several partners from different countries who have to work together to make a positive change in the programme area. When the project is assessed, a key point the selection sub-committee looks for is whether the partnership is strong enough to deliver the project and achieve the expected outcomes. Key criteria are:

• Partners must be relevant (specialisms and geography) and complementary
• Good balance between types of partners - research institutions, local authorities, NGOs, SMEs, etc
• Each partner must have a defined role and specific contribution to the project
• At least some of the activities must involve genuine joint working, rather than just information sharing about activities undertaken at partner level