The private sector cannot directly apply for most EU Programmes (exceptions being Framework 7 and CIP) but can occasionally do so in partnership with the public sector. Structural Funds are often seen as the last potential source of financing for a project. They are used by applicants to part finance projects which would otherwise not go ahead. Projects must however have other sources of finance in place as it can only provide up to a maximum of 50% of the funding package.
European Regional Development Fund
ERDF supports projects that develop the economic capacity the region. The 2007-13 ERDF Programme will provide assistance for enterprise development; community regeneration; and rural development. Over the years ERDF has played an important role in encouraging the integration of activities fostering sustainable development into the mainstream in Scotland.
European Social Fund
ESF supports projects that develop the region’s human resources and improves labour market skills & potentials. The key aims are to get people back into work and to improve the career prospects of those already in work, but also help contribute towards lifelong learning. Over the years ESF has played an important role in the provision of training programmes encouraging the integration of activities fostering equal opportunities into the mainstream.
European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development
EAFRD supports activity which improves the competitiveness of agriculture and forestry, the environment and rural land management, as well as improve the quality of life and diversification of the rural economy. The EAFRD will also finance local development strategies and technical assistance (LEADER-type projects).
European Fisheries Fund
The UK and Scottish Governments are currently consulting on the draft UK Operational Programme (OP) prepared for the European Fisheries Fund (EFF) for 2007-13. The UK has about £97m of EU funding for the period covered by the Programme which will target activity supporting adaptation of the Community’s fishing fleet; Aquaculture, inland fishing, processing and marketing of fisheries and aquaculture products; as well as sustainable development of fisheries.