3 years into the programming period, 6 years of spending to go, and just 5% of ESI Funds have been spent on the ground to date. Meanwhile, 37% of funds have been allocated to approved projects. Is this satisfactory progress? Are the ESIF regulations clear and being well implemented?
What is this course about?
This course examines the practical challenges of implementing the 2014-2020 ESIF regulations and operational programmes. We look at the most significant rules under three headings: 1) programme finance and management 2) financial management and 3) financial control and audit. We refer extensively to Member State cases and good practice.
- What are the implications of the new result-orientation emphasis for programme and project implementation?
- How are Member States dealing with the Performance Framework?
- Is the new accounting year working smoothly?
- What is the link between annual pre-financing and automatic de-commitment (n+3)?
- How is implementation being simplified through using the simplified cost options?
There will be a keynote intervention from a Polish Managing Authorities, assessing the key issues, lessons and challenges for programme implementation in Poland. This will include reference to financial control, management verifications, respecting horizontal priorities, and the targeting of operations.
The seminar also examines the new monitoring and evaluation requirements and considers how best to set targets and measure impact. A range of implementation issues will be discussed, including achieving synergies with other funding sources.
How will it help you?
The seminar uses illustrated presentations given by senior national practitioners and expert consultants. Ample time will be available for question and answer sessions, discussions and exchanges of experience. There will be practical workshops and exercises on n+3, revenue-generating projects, options for using flat-rates and standardised unit costs, irregularities, and setting budgets and targets for the Performance Framework.
By the end of the seminar, participants should have a clear understanding of the rules for the current programming period and how the challenges for implementation are being addressed. This includes reference to detailed management procedures and best practices for implementation, as well as the use of tools to measure the effects of interventions.
Who will benefit most?
The seminar is aimed at all economic actors in the Structural Funds /Cohesion Fund policy-making and implementation process, including Managing, Certifying, Audit authorities, Intermediate Bodies, and national, regional and local officials or representatives. It is also designed for project sponsors and applicants, as well as other implementing bodies, including agencies with an economic development role (such as regional development agencies), educational and training establishments, and other local partners, including consultants and NGOs.
