Contrat de subvention Subsidy Contract pour la mise en œuvre du projet for the implementation of the project

03C1103, SHARPEI

Préambule Preamble

Le contrat suivant entre la The following contract between the

Région Hauts-de-France, Région Hauts-de-France, Hôtel de Région, 151, avenue du Président Hoover, 59555 LILLE Cedex, France

Hôtel de Région, 151, avenue du Président Hoover, 59555 LILLE Cedex, France

- agissant en tant qu'autorité de gestion (AG) du programme Interreg Europe

- acting as Managing Authority (MA) of the programme Interreg Europe

et and

Regione Emilia-Romagna Regione Emilia-Romagna Viale Aldo Moro n. 44 40127 Bologna, Italy (Italia)

Viale Aldo Moro n. 44 40127 Bologna, Italy (Italia)

- ci-après dénommé « Chef de file » (CdF), pour - hereinafter referred to as Lead Partner (LP), for

03C1103 – SHARPEI – Strategic Harmonization and Advanced Reporting for Policy Enhancement and Insights

03C1103 – SHARPEI – Strategic Harmonization and Advanced Reporting for Policy Enhancement and Insights

est conclu sur la base des dispositions légales indiquées à l'article 1.1.

is concluded on the basis of the legal provisions indicated in article 1.1.

Liste des abréviations: Programme - Interreg Europe AA - Autorité d'audit CE - Commission européenne UE - Union européenne SC - Secrétariat Conjoint CdF - Chef de File AG - Autorité de Gestion PP - Partenaire de projet (PPs - Partenaires de projet)

List of abbreviations: Programme – Interreg Europe AA – Audit Authority EC - European Commission EU – European Union JS - Joint Secretariat LP - Lead Partner MA - Managing Authority PP - Project Partner (PPs – Project Partners)

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Article 1 : Cadre juridique et base contractuelle

Article 1: Legal framework and contractual basis

1. Les dispositions légales et les documents suivants constituent la base contractuelle du présent contrat de subvention et le cadre juridique de la mise en œuvre du projet SHARPEI – Strategic Harmonization and Advanced Reporting for Policy Enhancement and Insights:

1. The following legal provisions and documents constitute the contractual basis of this subsidy contract and the legal framework for the implementation of the project SHARPEI – Strategic Harmonization and Advanced Reporting for Policy Enhancement and Insights:

Les règlements, les actes délégués et les actes d'exécution des Fonds européens structurels et d'investissement pour la période 2021- 2027, précisés ci-dessous ;

Le programme Interreg Europe, approuvé par la Commission européenne le 05/07/2022 (décision C(2022)4868), établissant le programme (ci-après dénommé « programme Interreg Europe ») et tout amendement approuvé par la Commission européenne  ;

Le droit français applicable à cette relation contractuelle ;

The European Structural and Investment Funds Regulations, Delegated and Implementing Acts for the 2021-2027 period, as further specified below;

The Interreg Europe programme, approved by the European Commission on 05/07/2022 (Decision C(2022)4868) setting the programme (hereinafter referred to as “Interreg Europe programme”) and any amendment approved by the European Commission;

The laws of France applicable to this contractual relationship;

2. Les lois et documents suivants constituent le cadre juridique applicable aux droits et obligations des parties au présent contrat :

Règlement (UE, Euratom) n° 2018/1046 du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 18 juillet 2018 relatif aux règles financières applicables au budget général de l'Union et toute modification, ainsi que les actes délégués ou d'exécution y afférents ;

Les règlements, actes délégués et actes d'exécution des Fonds européens structurels et d'investissement pour la période 2021- 2027, notamment :

Règlement (UE) n° 2021/1060 du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 24 juin 2021 portant dispositions communes relatives au Fonds européen de développement régional, au Fonds social européen Plus, au Fonds de cohésion, au Fonds pour une transition juste et au Fonds européen pour les affaires maritimes, la pêche et l'aquaculture, et établissant les règles financières applicables à ces Fonds et au Fonds « asile, migration et intégration », au Fonds pour la sécurité intérieure et à l'instrument de soutien financier à la gestion des frontières et à la politique des visas, et abrogeant le

2. The following laws and documents constitute the legal framework applicable to the rights and obligations of the parties to this contract:

Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 July 2018 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and any amendment, together with related Delegated or Implementing Acts;

The European Structural and Investment Funds Regulations, Delegated and Implementing Acts for the 2021-2027 period, especially:

Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021, laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund, and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy, and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 1303/2013, and any amendment;

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Règlement (CE) n° 1303/2013 du Conseil, ainsi que tout amendement ;

Règlement (UE) n° 2021/1058 du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 24 juin 2021 relatif au Fonds européen de développement régional et au Fonds de cohésion, et abrogeant le Règlement (CE) n° 1301/2013 du Conseil, ainsi que tout amendement ;

Règlement (UE) n° 2021/1059 du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 24 juin 2021 portant dispositions particulières relatives à l'objectif «  Coopération territoriale européenne » (Interreg) soutenu par le Fonds européen de développement régional et les instruments de financement extérieur, et abrogeant le Règlement (CE) n° 1299/2013 du Conseil, ainsi que tout amendement ;

Décision d’exécution (UE) n° 2022/74 de la Commission du 17 janvier 2022 établissant la liste des programmes Interreg et indiquant le montant total du soutien apporté par le Fonds européen de développement régional et par chaque instrument de financement extérieur de l’Union pour chaque programme, ainsi que la liste des montants transférés entre les volets au titre de l’objectif «Coopération territoriale européenne» pour la période 2021-2027, amendée par la décision d’exécution (UE) 2023/1635 de la Commission du 14 août 2023, ainsi que tout autre amendement  ;

Regulation (EU) No 2021/1058 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 on the European Regional Development Fund and on the Cohesion Fund, and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1301/2013, and any amendment;

Regulation (EU) No 2021/1059 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 on specific provisions for the European territorial goal (Interreg) supported by the European Regional Development Fund and external financing instruments, and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1299/2013, and any amendment;

Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/74 of 17 January 2022 setting out the list of Interreg programmes and indicating the global amount of the total support from the European Regional Development Fund and from each external financing instrument of the Union for each programme and the list of the amounts transferred between strands under the European territorial cooperation goal for the period 2021 to 2027, as amended by Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/1635 of 14 August 2023, and any other amendments;

Règlement (UE) n° 2016/679 du 27 avril 2016 relatif à la protection des personnes physiques à l'égard du traitement des données à caractère personnel et à la libre circulation de ces données, et abrogeant la directive 95/46/CE (Règlement général sur la protection des données, RGPD) ;

Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation, GDPR);

Articles 107 et 108 du Traité sur le fonctionnement de l'Union européenne, Règlement (UE) n° 2023/2831 de la Commission relatif à l'application des articles 107 et 108 du Traité sur le fonctionnement de l'Union européenne aux aides de minimis, Règlement (UE) n° 651/2014 déclarant certaines catégories d'aides compatibles avec le marché intérieur en application des articles 107 et 108 du traité  ; Actes délégués et

Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Commission Regulation (EU) No 2023/2831 on the application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis aid, Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 declaring certain categories of aid compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty; Delegated and Implementing acts, as

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d'exécution, ainsi que toutes les décisions et jugements applicables en matière d'aides d'État ;

well as all applicable decisions and rulings in the field of state aid;

Toute autre législation de l'UE et les principes sous-jacents applicables au CdF et aux PPs, y compris la législation établissant des dispositions sur la concurrence et l'entrée sur les marchés, la protection de l'environnement, et les principes de développement durable, d'égalité des chances, de non-discrimination et d'égalité entre les hommes et les femmes ;

All other EU legislation and the underlying principles applicable to the LP and the PPs, including the legislation laying down provisions on competition and entry into the markets, the protection of the environment, and the principles of sustainable development, equal opportunities, non- discrimination and equality between men and women;

Les conventions de financement signées par la Commission européenne, l’autorité de gestion et les pays candidats à l’UE participant au programme, publiées sur le site internet du programme  ;

Financing agreements signed by the European Commission, the Managing Authority and the EU candidate countries participating in the Programme, published on the programme website;

Règles nationales applicables au CdF et à ses PPs et à leurs activités ;

National rules applicable to the LP and its PPs and their activities;

Les données du projet, comprenant toute la documentation la plus récente du projet, comme le formulaire de candidature et toutes les informations du projet disponibles dans le système électronique (Portail Interreg Europe) ;

Project data, comprising all latest project documentation such as application form and all project information available in the electronic system (Interreg Europe Portal);

Tous les manuels, lignes directrices et tout autre document pertinent pour la mise en œuvre du projet (par exemple, le manuel du programme) dans leur dernière version, telle que publiée sur le site Internet du programme.

All manuals, guidelines and any other documents relevant for project implementation (e.g. programme manual) in their latest version, as published on the programme website.

En cas de modification des documents susmentionnés, ainsi que de tout autre document ou donnée pertinent pour la relation contractuelle, la dernière version est applicable.

Should the above-mentioned documents, and any other documents or data of relevance for the contractual relationship be amended, the latest version shall apply.

Article 2 : Attribution du cofinancement et conditions générales

Article 2: Award of co-financing and general conditions

1. Le contrat a pour objet l'attribution d'un cofinancement du programme par l'AG pour financer la mise en œuvre du projet SHARPEI, conformément à la décision du Comité de Suivi du 10/12/2024.

1. The purpose of the contract is the award of programme co-financing by the MA to finance the implementation of the project SHARPEI, in accordance with the decision of the Monitoring Committee of 10/12/2024.

2. Le CdF accepte le cofinancement accordé et assume la responsabilité de coordonner la mise en œuvre du projet, en temps voulu, conformément aux dispositions du présent contrat.

2. The LP accepts the awarded co-financing and assumes the responsibility to coordinate the implementation of the project, in due time, according to the provisions of the present contract.

3. Le cofinancement est accordé exclusivement pour le projet tel que décrit par la dernière version des données du projet (en particulier le formulaire de candidature approuvé) disponible dans le système

3. The co-financing is awarded exclusively for the project as described by the latest version of the project data (in particular the approved application form) available in the programme's electronic

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électronique du programme (portail Interreg Europe), comme indiqué à l'article 1 du présent document.

system (Interreg Europe Portal) as referred to in Article 1 of this document.

4. Le cofinancement maximal des fonds Interreg et du fonds norvégien (le cas échéant) est stipulé dans la dernière version du formulaire de candidature approuvée disponible sur le portail Interreg Europe.

4. The maximum co-financing from the Interreg funds and Norwegian fund (when applicable) is stipulated in the latest approved version of the application form available in the Interreg Europe Portal.

5. Le cofinancement réel des fonds Interreg et, le cas échéant, le cofinancement réel norvégien seront calculés sur la base des seules dépenses éligibles déclarées. Le montant total à payer par l'organisme comptable du programme (au nom de l'AG) au CdF ne peut pas dépasser les montants maximaux des fonds Interreg et norvégien respectifs approuvés.

5. The actual Interreg funds co-financing and, if relevant, Norwegian co-financing will be calculated on the basis of reported eligible expenditure only. The total amount to be paid by the accounting body of the programme (on behalf of the MA) to the LP cannot exceed the maximum amounts of the respective Interreg and Norwegian funds approved.

6. Le versement du cofinancement est soumis à la condition que la CE et la Norvège mettent les fonds à disposition. En cas de non-disponibilité des fonds, l'AG a le droit de résilier ce contrat ou de réduire le montant du cofinancement accordé. Dans ces cas, toute action en justice de la part du CdF ou des PPs contre l'AG est exclue. Dans ce cas, le CdF sera dûment informé par l'AG et guidé sur les mesures respectives à prendre.

6. Disbursement of the co-financing is subject to the condition that the EC and Norway make the funds available. In the case of non-availability of funds, the MA is entitled to terminate this contract or reduce the awarded amount of co-financing. In these cases, any legal claim by the LP or PPs against the MA is excluded. In such a case, the LP will be duly notified by the MA and guided on the respective steps to be taken.

7. Le versement du cofinancement des fonds Interreg aux partenaires des pays candidats à l’UE participant au Programme est aussi conditionné par la conclusion de la convention de financement entre le pays concerné, la Commission européenne et l’autorité de gestion.

7. Disbursement of the Interreg funds co-financing for partners from an EU candidate country participating in the Programme is also under condition that the Financing Agreement between the respective country, the European Commission and the MA is concluded.

8. En cas de retard dans la disponibilité des fonds, l'AG peut retenir les paiements jusqu'à ce que les fonds soient disponibles et ne peut être tenue responsable des retards dans les paiements au projet. Dans ce cas, toute réclamation du CdF ou des PPs à l'encontre de l'AG est exclue.

8. In case of delays in the availability of funds, the MA can withhold payments until such a time as the funds are made available and cannot be held liable for delays in payments to the project. In this case, any claim by the LP or PPs against the MA is excluded.

9. S'il s'avère que le projet ne dépensera pas le montant maximal du cofinancement du programme accordé, le ou les organes compétents du programme peuvent décider de réduire ce montant en conséquence, en suivant la procédure spécifiée dans le manuel du programme.

9. Should it become evident that the project will not spend the maximum amount of programme co- financing awarded, the relevant programme body/ies may decide to reduce this amount accordingly, following the procedure as specified in the programme manual.

10. Si un projet ne respecte pas les dispositions contractuelles relatives au respect des délais indiqués dans le plan de dépenses, à l'absorption du budget, aux exigences de visibilité et à l’accomplissement des réalisations et des résultats, comme indiqué dans les données du projet, des mesures correctives peuvent être mises en place pour garantir la performance du projet, ainsi que

10. Should a project fail to respect the contractual arrangements on timeliness as indicated in the spending plan, budget absorption, visibility requirements and achievement of outputs and results, as set out in the project data, corrective measures may be put in place to ensure the project performance, as well as minimize the impact at programme level (e.g., adaptation of the project to

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pour minimiser l'impact au niveau du programme (par exemple, l'adaptation du projet à la nouvelle situation), comme spécifié dans le manuel du programme.

the changed situation), as specified in the programme manual.

11. Le programme peut également réduire le cofinancement du programme alloué au projet ou, si nécessaire, arrêter le projet en résiliant le contrat de subvention comme stipulé dans l'article 12 de ce document.

11. The programme may also reduce the programme co-financing allocated to the project or, if necessary, stop the project by terminating the subsidy contract as determined in Article 12 of this document.

12. Les paiements de cofinancement du programme qui ne sont pas demandés à temps et en totalité comme indiqué dans le plan de dépenses inclus dans le formulaire de demande peuvent être perdus.

12. Programme co-financing payments not requested in time and in full as indicated in the spending plan included in the application form may be lost.

Article 3 : Éligibilité des dépenses Article 3: Eligibility of expenditure

1. Les dépenses qui peuvent bénéficier d'un cofinancement du programme sont exclusivement des dépenses éligibles. Les règles d'éligibilité des dépenses des projets pouvant bénéficier d'un cofinancement du programme sont définies dans le manuel du programme.

1. Expenditure which qualifies for co-financing from the programme consists exclusively of eligible expenditure. Rules for eligibility of project expenditure qualifying for co-financing from the programme are laid down in the programme manual.

2. Pour être cofinancées par le programme, les dépenses du projet doivent être conformes aux méthodes de détermination des coûts du projet (coûts réels ou options de coûts simplifiés) pour chaque catégorie de coûts, telles que définies dans le manuel du programme et les données du projet.

2. To be co-financed by the programme, project expenditure has to comply with the methods for determining the costs of the project (real costs or simplified cost options) for each cost category as defined in the programme manual and project data.

3. Le projet ne doit pas faire appel à des fonds provenant d'autres programmes cofinancés par l'UE pour financer les coûts éligibles déclarés pour le présent projet.

3. The project must not make use of funds from other programmes co-financed by the EU to finance the eligible costs reported to the present project.

4. La période d'éligibilité des coûts encourus par le projet est définie dans le manuel du programme et les données du projet, et doit être respectée par le projet.

4. The eligibility period for costs incurred by the project is defined in the programme manual and the project data and must be respected by the project.

Article 4 : Obligations de rapport et paiement Article 4: Reporting obligations and payment

1. Le CdF a le droit de demander des paiements à l'AG en suivant les procédures de rapport définies dans le manuel du programme. Après l'achèvement satisfaisant des obligations de rapports, le cofinancement du programme sera versé par l’organisme comptable du programme sur le compte bancaire du CdF indiqué dans les données du projet. Ce cofinancement sera versé en euros (EUR, €). Tout risque de taux de change pour le transfert aux partenaires sera assumé par le CdF.

1. The LP is entitled to request payments from the MA by following the reporting procedures defined in the programme manual. Upon satisfactory completion of reporting, the programme co- financing will be disbursed by the accounting body to the bank account of the LP indicated in the project data. This co-financing will be disbursed in Euro (EUR, €). Any exchange rate risk for transfer to the partners will be borne by the LP.

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2. L'AG se réserve le droit de ne pas accepter, en partie ou en totalité, - les dépenses validées par les contrôleurs si, à la suite de ses propres vérifications et/ou de contrôles ou d'audits réalisés par une autre autorité, la validation ou les faits qui y sont mentionnés s'avèrent incorrects, ou si les activités ou les dépenses sous-jacentes ne sont pas conformes au cadre légal tel que défini dans le présent contrat de subvention.

2. The MA reserves the right not to accept – in part or in full – expenditure validated by controllers if – as a result of its own checks and/or controls or audits performed by another authority – the validation or the facts stated therein prove to be incorrect, or if the underlying activities or expenditure are not in line with the legal framework as set out in this subsidy contract.

3. L'AG veille à ce que le projet reçoive les paiements du cofinancement du programme en temps voulu et dans leur intégralité. Aucune déduction ou retenue d'autres frais spécifiques qui réduiraient le montant du paiement ne sera effectuée sans préjudice des dispositions énoncées ci-dessus dans le présent article. Réciproquement, le cofinancement des fonds Interreg et Norvégiens versé par l'AG n'excèdera pas la part des fonds Interreg et Norvégiens résultant du montant éligible vérifié par chaque autorité de contrôle responsable, dans le respect des articles du présent contrat.

3. The MA shall ensure that the project receives payments of the co-financing from the programme in time and in full. No deduction or retention of further specific charges which would reduce the amount of the payment shall be made without prejudice of the provisions outlined above in this article. Conversely, the Interreg and Norwegian funds co-financing paid by the MA shall not exceed the share of Interreg and Norwegian funds resulting from the eligible amount verified by each responsible control authority, in compliance with the articles of this contract.

Article 5 : Modifications du projet Article 5: Modifications to the project

Les modifications du projet sont introduites par le CdF selon les règles et procédures énoncées dans le manuel du programme. Le cas échéant, pour entrer en vigueur, ces modifications doivent être approuvées par le ou les organismes du programme compétentes.

Modifications in the project shall be introduced by the LP according to the rules and procedures stated in the programme manual. Where relevant, in order to come into effect, these modifications must be approved by the relevant programme body/ies.

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Article 6 : Conservation des documents, audit et évaluation

Article 6: Document keeping, audit and evaluation

1. Les organismes du programme, les organismes nationaux ainsi que tout organisme de l'UE compétent sont habilités à contrôler l'utilisation des fonds par les CdF et les PPs, ou à faire en sorte qu'un tel contrôle soit effectué par des personnes autorisées.

1. Programme bodies, national bodies as well as any relevant EU body are entitled to audit the use of funds by the LP and PPs or to arrange for such an audit to be carried out by authorised persons.

2. Les CdF et PPs doivent fournir tous les documents requis pour l'audit, ainsi que toutes les informations nécessaires, et donner accès à leurs locaux professionnels, ainsi qu'aux lieux liés au projet.

2. The LP and PPs must provide all documents required for the audit, as well as all necessary information, and give access to their business premises, as well as project-related locations.

3. Les CdF et PPs doivent également fournir à tout évaluateur autorisé toutes les informations et l'accès aux documents nécessaires à la réalisation des évaluations du programme ou du projet.

3. The LP and PPs must also provide all necessary information and access to documents for the purpose of carrying out programme or project evaluations to any authorised evaluator.

4. Les CdF et PPs sont tenus de s'assurer que tous les dossiers, documents et données relatifs au projet sont conservés à des fins d'audit. Les documents sont conservés pendant une période d'au moins 5 ans à compter du 31 décembre de l'année au cours de laquelle le dernier paiement de l'AG au projet est effectué. Des périodes de conservation plus longues peuvent s'appliquer en cas d'aide d'État ou conformément aux règles nationales.

4. The LP and PPs are obliged to ensure that all files, documents and data related to the project are retained for audit purposes. The documents shall be kept for at least a 5-year retention period from 31 December of the year in which the last payment by the MA to the project is made. Longer retention periods may apply in case of state aid or in accordance with national rules.

5. En cas de résiliation du présent contrat de subvention, les droits et obligations prévus par le présent article subsistent toutefois.

5. Should this subsidy contract be terminated, the rights and duties stipulated in this article shall, however, persist.

6. L'AG a le droit de retenir les paiements au CdF jusqu'à ce que toutes les informations et tous les documents requis aient été fournis ou mis à disposition de la manière requise.

6. The MA has the right to withhold the payments to the LP until all required information and documentation has been delivered or made available otherwise in the required way.

7. L'AG a le droit d'effectuer des contrôles par échantillons en plus des contrôles effectués par les organismes nationaux de contrôle financier.

7. The MA has the right to conduct sample checks in addition to the national financial control bodies' checks.

8. L'AG, assistée par le secrétariat conjoint, peut à tout moment demander des informations et des pièces justificatives supplémentaires aux CdF et PPs, afin d'accomplir ses tâches de certification.

8. The MA, assisted by the joint secretariat, can at any moment request additional information and supporting documents from the LP and PPs, in order to perform its certifying tasks.

9. L'AG a le droit de suspendre les paiements si le projet fait l'objet de contrôles ou d'audits de la part de l'AG/SC, de l'AA ou des organes compétents de l'UE jusqu'à ce que ces contrôles ou audits soient terminés. Si l'AA émet des déclarations sur les systèmes de contrôle nationaux et identifie des problèmes de nature systémique, l'AG a le droit de

9. The MA has the right to suspend payments should the project become subject to controls or audits by the MA/JS, AA or relevant EU bodies until these controls or audits have been completed. Should the AA issue statements on the national control systems and identify problems of a systemic character, the MA has the right to suspend

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suspendre les paiements au CdF jusqu'à ce que le cas soit résolu.

payments to the LP until the case has been resolved.

Article 7 : Rôles et responsabilités Article 7: Roles and responsibilities, liability

1. Le CdF s'engage à respecter l'ensemble des règles et règlements visés à l'article 1 du présent contrat de subvention (y compris les modifications apportées à ces règles et règlements).

1. The LP undertakes to comply with the body of rules and regulations referred to in Article 1 of this subsidy contract (including any amendments made to these rules and regulations).

2. Le CdF assume toutes les responsabilités définies dans le manuel du programme  ; en particulier, les principales responsabilités du CdF et les responsabilités après la clôture du projet.

2. The LP shall assume all responsibilities laid down in the programme manual; in particular, the main responsibilities of the LP and the responsibilities after the project closure.

3. Le CdF doit s'assurer que la mise en œuvre du projet est conforme au plan de travail, au calendrier et au budget approuvé, comme indiqué dans les données du projet.

3. The LP shall make sure that the project implementation is in line with the work plan, the time schedule and the approved budget, as indicated in the project data.

4. Le CdF fixe les modalités de ses relations avec les PPs et les responsabilités respectives dans un accord de partenariat qui répond aux exigences minimales stipulées dans le manuel du programme.

4. The LP shall lay down the arrangements for its relations with the PPs and liabilities in a partnership agreement that fulfils the minimum requirements stipulated in the programme manual.

5. Le CdF informe immédiatement l'AG de toutes les circonstances qui retardent, entravent ou rendent impossible la réalisation du projet, ainsi que de toutes les circonstances qui impliquent une modification des conditions de versement, ou qui donneraient à l'AG le droit de résilier le présent contrat de subvention, de cesser les versements ou d'exiger le remboursement du cofinancement, en totalité ou en partie.

5. The LP informs the MA immediately about any circumstances that delay, hinder or make impossible the realisation of the project, as well as all circumstances that mean a change of the disbursement conditions, or which would entitle the MA to terminate this subsidy contract, to discontinue payments or to demand repayment of the co-financing, in full or in part.

6. Le CdF est tenu de fournir à l'AG toute information requise et demandée dans le cadre du projet, sans délai.

6. The LP is responsible for providing the MA with any information required and requested in terms of the project, without delay.

7. Le CdF fournit à tous les autres partenaires une copie du contrat de subvention signé et veille à ce que les partenaires du projet respectent ses dispositions.

7. The LP shall provide all other partners with a copy of the signed subsidy contract and shall ensure that the project partners comply with its provisions.

Article 8 : Recouvrements et fonds indûment versés

Article 8: Recoveries and unduly paid out funds

1. Si un organisme du programme, un organisme national ou un organisme compétent de l'UE découvre des fonds Interreg ou Norvégiens indûment versés, ou si l'AG est informée de tels cas, elle demande le remboursement du cofinancement du programme en tout ou en partie au CdF.

1. If any programme body, national body or any relevant EU body should discover any unduly paid out Interreg or Norwegian funds, or should the MA be notified of such cases, it shall demand repayment of the programme co-financing in whole or in part from the LP.

2. Le CdF doit s’assurer que, le cas échéant, le PP concerné rembourse au CdF les sommes indûment versées, conformément à l'accord de partenariat et

2. The LP shall ensure that, if applicable, the PP involved repays the LP any amounts unduly paid, in accordance with the partnership agreement and the

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au manuel du programme. Le montant à rembourser peut être déduit du prochain paiement au CdF ou, le cas échéant, les paiements restants peuvent être suspendus. Dans le cas de projets clôturés ou sur demande de l'AG pour les projets en cours, le CdF est tenu de transférer les fonds indûment versés à l'AG, après les avoir récupérés auprès du PP concerné, le cas échéant.

programme manual. The amount to be repaid can be withdrawn from the next payment to the LP or, where applicable, remaining payments can be suspended. In the case of closed projects or upon request by the MA for ongoing projects, the LP is obliged to transfer the unduly paid out funds to the MA, after having recovered it from the PP concerned, if applicable.

3. Si le CdF ou un PP impliqué dans ce projet ne rembourse pas les fonds indûment versés dans un autre projet financé par le programme, l'AG a le droit de retirer les fonds correspondants relatifs au CdF ou PP en question sur tout paiement ouvert dans ce projet.

3. If the LP or a PP involved in this project fails to repay unduly paid funds in another project funded by the programme, the MA has the right to withdraw the corresponding funds relating to the LP or PP in question from any open payment in this project.

4. Dans le cas où le chef de file ne parvient pas malgré ses efforts à obtenir du partenaire le remboursement des fonds Interreg ou Norvégiens, ou lorsque l'AG ne parvient pas à obtenir le remboursement du Chef de File, alors en vertu du Règlement (UE) n° 2021/1059 et des conventions de financement pour les pays candidats à l’UE participant au programme, l'État partenaire sur le territoire duquel le PP concerné est situé (ou, dans le cas d'un GECT, est enregistré), rembourse à l'AG les montants indûment versés à ce PP. Cet État partenaire est alors en droit de réclamer ce montant au PP concerné sur la base de son droit national.

4. If despite their efforts, the LP does not succeed in securing repayment of Interreg or Norwegian funds from the partner, or if the MA does not succeed in securing repayment from the LP, then, in accordance with article 52 of the Regulation (EU) No 2021/1059 and the financing agreement for the EU candidate countries participating in the programme, the Partner State on whose territory the PP concerned is located (or in case of an EGTC, is registered), shall reimburse the MA any amounts unduly paid to that PP. This Partner State is then entitled to claim this amount from the PP concerned based on its national law.

Article 9 : Information et communication, publicité et droits de propriété intellectuelle

Article 9: Information and communication, publicity and intellectual property rights

1. Le CdF doit s'assurer que les PPs respectent toutes les obligations en matière de publicité, de communication et d’identité visuelle conformément aux règlements énumérés à l'article 1 du présent document et tels que précisés dans le manuel du programme.

1. The LP shall ensure that the PPs comply with all publicity, communication and branding obligations according to the regulations listed in Article 1 of this document and as further specified in the programme manual.

2. Le CdF assume l'entière responsabilité du contenu de tout avis, publication ou autre outil réalisé par le CdF, l'un des PPs ou des tiers au nom du CdF ou des PPs. Si un tiers réclame des dommages-intérêts (par exemple, en raison d'une violation des droits de propriété intellectuelle), le CdF indemnisera l'AG si celle-ci subit un quelconque préjudice du fait de cette réclamation.

2. The LP takes full responsibility for the content of any notice, publication or material developed by the LP, any of the PPs, or third parties on behalf of the LP or the PPs. Should a third-party claim compensation for damages (e.g., due to an infringement of intellectual property rights), the LP will indemnify the MA should the MA suffer any damage because of this claim.

3. L’AG a le droit d'utiliser les résultats du projet afin de garantir une large diffusion des résultats et des réalisations du projet, et de les mettre à la disposition du public. Le CdF accepte que les réalisations soient transmises par l'AG aux autres autorités du programme, ainsi qu'aux pays participant au programme, afin d'utiliser ce matériel pour montrer comment le cofinancement est utilisé.

3. The MA is entitled to use the outputs of the project in order to guarantee a wide dissemination of the project deliverables and outputs, and to make them available to the public. The LP agrees that the outputs are forwarded by the MA to other programme authorities, as well as the countries participating in the programme, to use this material to showcase how the co-financing is used.

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4. Toute campagne de communication, apparition dans les médias ou autre publicité du projet doit être communiquée à l'Autorité de Gestion pour d'éventuelles mises à jour du site Internet ou mis en avant d’ exemples choisis.

4. Any communication campaign, media appearance or other publicity of the project shall be communicated to the MA for potential website updates or showcases.

5. Dans un esprit de coopération et d'échange, le CdF et les PPs veillent à ce que toutes les réalisations et tous les résultats produits à la suite du projet soient d'intérêt public et accessibles au public. L’AG/SC et tout autre organisme du programme, organisme européen et national pertinent peuvent les utiliser à des fins d'information et de communication dans le cadre du programme.

5. In the spirit of cooperation and exchange, the LP and the PPs shall ensure that all the outputs and results produced as a result of the project are in the public interest and publicly available. The MA/JS and any other relevant programme, EU and national body can use them for information and communication purposes in the framework of the programme.

6. Le CdF s'assure qu'il dispose de tous les droits nécessaires à l’utilisation des droits de propriété intellectuelle préexistants, si cela s'avère nécessaire pour la mise en œuvre du projet.

6. The LP shall ensure that it has all rights to use any pre-existing intellectual property rights, if necessary for the implementation of the project.

7. Le CdF doit informer l'AG s'il existe des informations sensibles ou confidentielles, ou des droits de propriété intellectuelle préexistants liés au projet qui doivent être respectés.

7. The LP shall inform the MA if there is any sensitive or confidential information, or any pre-existing intellectual property rights related to the project that must be respected.

8. Le CdF s'assure que tous les PPs respectent les mentions légales et la politique de protection des données personnelles du site Internet du programme pour l'hébergement, la maintenance et l'édition du site Internet du projet, comme décrit dans le manuel du programme.

8. The LP ensures that all PPs respect the legal notice and privacy policy of the programme website for hosting, maintaining, and editing the project’s website, as described in the programme manual.

9. Le CdF autorise l'AG à utiliser le matériel de communication et de visibilité produit par le projet pour illustrer l'utilisation du cofinancement. Le CdF autorise en outre le ou les organes de programme concernés à transmettre ce matériel à d'autres organes du programme, aux organes responsables de la promotion du programme au niveau national, ainsi qu'aux institutions, organes, bureaux ou agences de l'Union. À cette fin, le CdF veille à ce qu'une licence non exclusive, irrévocable et exempte de redevance permettant l’utilisation de ce matériel et de tous les droits préexistants qui y sont attachés soit accordée aux organismes du programme et de l'Union susmentionnés, conformément à l'annexe IX du Règlement (UE) n° 2021/1060 et comme précisé dans le manuel du programme.

9. The LP authorises the MA to use communication and visibility material produced by the project to showcase how the co-financing is used. The LP furthermore authorises the relevant programme body/ies to forward this material to other programme bodies, programme promoters at national level, as well as Union institutions, bodies, offices or agencies. For this purpose, the LP ensures that a royalty-free, non-exclusive and irrevocable licence to use such material and any pre-existing rights attached to it is granted to the aforementioned Programme and Union bodies in accordance with Annex IX of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060 and further specified in the programme manual.

10. L'AG est autorisée à publier, sous quelque forme que ce soit et sur ou par quelque support que ce soit, y compris l'Internet, des (parties des) données du projet afin de remplir ses propres obligations de rapport, de communication et de visibilité découlant

10. The MA shall be authorised to publish, in whatever form and on or by whatever medium, including the Internet, (parts of) the project data in order to fulfil its own reporting, communication and visibility obligations arising from the body of rules

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de l'ensemble des règles et règlements énumérés à l'article 1. Les données personnelles sont traitées conformément au GDPR (cf. article 13 du présent document).

and regulations listed in Article 1. Personal data shall be processed in line with the GDPR (cf. Article 13 of this document).

Article 10 : Cession, transmission légale Article 10: Assignment, legal succession

1. L'AG peut à tout moment céder à des tiers ses droits découlant du contrat de subvention. Si l'AG décide de le faire, elle en informera immédiatement le CdF.

1. The MA is entitled at any time to assign its rights under the subsidy contract to third parties. Should the MA decide to do so, it will immediately inform the LP.

2. Le CdF n'est autorisé à céder ses obligations et ses droits à des tiers dans le cadre du contrat de subvention qu'après accord écrit préalable de l'AG.

2. The LP is allowed to assign its duties and rights to third parties under the subsidy contract only after prior written consent from the MA.

3. En cas de transmission légale, le CdF transfère tous les droits et obligations découlant du présent contrat de subvention à son successeur légal et informe l'AG de cette transmission légale. Il en est de même en cas de transmission légale concernant un ou plusieurs des PPs.

3. In the event of legal succession, the LP shall transfer all rights and duties under this subsidy contract to its legal successor and shall inform the MA of this legal succession. The same shall apply in case of legal succession for one or more of the PPs.

Article 11 : Réclamations et litiges Article 11: Complaints and litigation

1. Le CdF a le droit de déposer une plainte officielle au nom du partenariat contre tout acte et/ou décision de l’AG/SC lié à l'exécution du contrat de subvention.

1. The LP is entitled to file a formal complaint on behalf of the partnership against any act and/or decision by the JS/MA related to the execution of the subsidy contract.

2. Le présent contrat est régi par et interprété conformément au droit français, l’AG ayant son siège en France.

2. This contract is governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of France, where the MA is located.

3. En cas de litige entre l'AG et le CdF, des solutions amiables devront être privilégiées avant toute procédure judiciaire. La procédure à suivre est décrite dans le manuel du programme.

3. Should a dispute arise between the MA and the LP, amicable solutions shall be used prior to legal proceedings. The procedure to follow is laid down in the programme manual.

4. En cas de litige, le tribunal administratif de Lille est compétent.

4. In case of litigation, the administrative tribunal of Lille shall be competent.

5. Selon la loi française n° 94-665 du 4 août 1994, une version française du contrat doit être établie. Les versions anglaise et française du présent contrat sont en vigueur. Les parties contractantes pourront invoquer les dispositions des deux versions.

5. According to French law number 94-665 of the 4 August 1994, a French version of the contract has to be set. The English and French versions of the present contract are in force. The contracting parties will be able to invoke the provisions of the two versions.

6. En cas de contradiction entre la version française et la version anglaise, la commune intention des parties prévaut.

6. In case of contradiction between the French and the English version, the common intention of the parties shall take precedence.

Article 12 : Résiliation du contrat Article 12: Termination of the contract

1. L'AG peut résilier le contrat de cofinancement et exiger le remboursement du cofinancement du programme, en totalité ou en partie, si :

1. The MA may terminate the co-financing contract and demand the repayment of programme co- financing, in full or in part, if:

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a) les informations que les PPs devaient fournir lors de la procédure d'évaluation et de sélection, de la phase des conditions ou de la mise en œuvre du projet, étaient fausses ou incomplètes ;

b) le CdF ne remplit pas une condition ou une obligation résultant du contrat de subvention ;

c) un partenaire devient insolvable, fait l'objet d'une administration judiciaire, a conclu un concordat préventif, a suspendu ses activités commerciales, fait l'objet d'une procédure de faillite ou d'une procédure relative à ces questions, ou se trouve dans toute autre situation analogue ;

d) les partenaires, ou toute personne liée, ont commis une fraude ou sont impliqués dans toute activité illégale portant atteinte aux intérêts financiers de l'UE ;

e) le retrait d'un partenaire du projet ou le changement de statut d'un partenaire du projet affecte substantiellement la réalisation du projet ou remet en cause la décision d'attribution ;

f) le projet n'a pas été ou ne peut pas être entièrement mis en œuvre, ou il n'a pas été ou ne peut pas être mis en œuvre en temps voulu ;

g) le projet n'a pas atteint de manière significative les objectifs, les résultats et les réalisations prévus dans le formulaire de candidature, sauf si cela est dûment justifié ;

h) le CdF n'a pas soumis les rapports requis, les preuves ou les informations nécessaires demandées par les organismes du programme dans le délai fixé, à condition que le CdF ait reçu au moins un rappel écrit fixant le délai et précisant les conséquences juridiques d'un manquement aux exigences ;

i) le cofinancement du programme a été partiellement ou entièrement appliqué à des fins autres que celles convenues ;

j) le CdF a entravé ou empêché l'audit du projet, ou n'a pas conservé la documentation du projet requise pour l'audit ;

k) le CdF n'a pas signalé immédiatement les événements qui retardent ou empêchent la mise en œuvre du projet, ou toute circonstance conduisant à sa modification ;

l) La législation européenne et/ou la législation nationale ont été violées par le CdF ou un PP.

a) the information the PPs were required to provide in the assessment and selection procedure, conditions phase or the implementation of the project was false or incomplete;

b) the LP fails to fulfil any condition or obligation resulting from the subsidy contract;

c) a partner becomes insolvent, is having its affairs administered by the courts, has entered into an arrangement with creditors, has suspended business activities, is the subject of bankruptcy proceedings, or proceedings concerning those matters, or is in any other analogous situation;

d) the partners, or any related person, have committed fraud or are involved in any illegal activity detrimental to the EU’s financial interests;

e) the withdrawal of a project partner or a change in a project partner’s status substantially affects the implementation of the project or puts into question the award decision;

f) the project has not been or cannot be fully implemented, or it has not been or cannot be implemented in due time;

g) the project significantly failed to reach the objectives, results and outputs planned in the application form, unless duly justified;  

h) the LP has failed to submit required reports, proof or necessary information requested by the programme bodies within the set deadline, provided that the LP has received at least one written reminder setting the deadline and specifying the legal consequences of a failure to comply with the requirements;

i) the programme co-financing has been partially or entirely applied for purposes other than those agreed upon;

j) the LP has impeded or prevented the auditing of the project, or failed to retain the project documentation required for the audit;

k) the LP has failed to immediately report events delaying or preventing the implementation of the project, or any circumstances leading to its modification;

l) EU legislation and/or national legislation has been violated by the LP or a PP.

2. En cas de résiliation du présent contrat par l'AG, le CdF recevra un avis écrit contenant les

2. Upon termination of this contract by the MA, the LP shall receive a written notice with necessary

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instructions nécessaires concernant la clôture du projet. Lorsque la résiliation du contrat est fondée sur le paragraphe 1 du présent article, l'AG peut demander le remboursement total ou partiel des montants déjà versés au titre du cofinancement du programme, proportionnellement à la gravité de l'irrégularité en question, après avoir permis au CdF de présenter ses explications. L'AG informe le CdF en lui donnant un préavis écrit d'au moins 30 jours et sans verser de compensation d'aucune sorte. À la fin de la période de préavis, l'AG confirmera la résiliation du contrat (sauf si de nouvelles informations fournies pendant la période de préavis permettent à l'AG de reconsidérer la résiliation du contrat).

instruction regarding the closure of the project. Where termination of the contract is based on paragraph 1 of this article, the MA may request full or partial repayment of amounts already paid from the programme co-financing, in proportion to the gravity of the irregularity in question, after allowing the LP to submit its clarification. The MA shall inform the LP by giving a minimum 30 day written notice and without paying compensation of any kind. At the end of the notice period, the MA will confirm the termination of the contract (unless new information provided during the notice period allows the MA to reconsider the termination of the contract).

3. En cas de force majeure, c'est-à-dire si des circonstances exceptionnelles rendent la mise en œuvre du projet excessivement difficile ou dangereuse, et si le contrat de subvention ne peut plus être exécuté de manière efficace et appropriée, les parties peuvent résilier le contrat de subvention moyennant un préavis écrit d'au moins 30 jours, sans être tenues de payer une indemnité. L'AG peut rembourser les dépenses résiduelles inévitables engagées pendant la période de préavis (mais uniquement pour les activités et les dépenses qui ont été correctement exécutées).

3. In the case of force majeure, i.e., if exceptional circumstances make implementation of the project excessively difficult or dangerous, and if the subsidy contract can no longer be executed effectively and appropriately, the parties may terminate the subsidy contract by serving a minimum 30-day written notice, without being required to pay indemnity. The MA may reimburse the unavoidable residual expenditures incurred during the notice period (but only for activities and expenditures that have been properly executed).

4. Le CdF est en droit de demander des paiements au programme uniquement pour la partie du projet réalisée et les activités exécutées avant la résiliation du contrat et soumises au programme avant la date limite indiquée dans la lettre de résiliation.

4. The LP shall be entitled to request payments from the programme only for the part of the project carried out and activities executed before the termination of the contract and submitted to the programme by the deadline indicated in the termination letter.

5. Le contrat peut être résilié par accord mutuel écrit entre le CdF et l’AG.

5. The contract may be terminated by written mutual agreement between the LP and MA.

6. Lors de la résiliation du contrat, les obligations du CdF qui sont encore pertinentes (notamment celles mentionnées aux articles 6, 7, 8, 9 et 10) continuent de s'appliquer jusqu'à la fin du délai mentionné à l'article 6.4.

6. Upon termination of the contract, the obligations of the LP which are still relevant (in particular those mentioned in articles 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10) continue to apply until the end of the period mentioned in article 6.4.

Article 13 : Gestion et protection des données Article 13: Data management and data protection

1. Toute donnée à caractère personnel dans le cadre du contrat de subvention est traitée par l'AG/SC ou d'autres organismes du programme pertinents conformément au Règlement (UE) n° 2016/679 du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 27 avril 2016 relatif à la protection des personnes physiques à l'égard du traitement des données à caractère personnel et à la libre circulation de ces données (Règlement général sur la protection des

1. Any personal data under the subsidy contract shall be processed by the MA/ JS or other relevant programme bodies in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural person with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data (General Data Protection Regulation/ GDPR)

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données/ RGPD) et aux conditions générales du Portail Interreg Europe.

and the terms and conditions of the Interreg Europe Portal.

2. Conformément à l'article 4 du Règlement (UE) n°  1060/2021, l'AG, les autres organismes du programme et la Commission sont autorisés à traiter les données à caractère personnel lorsque cela est nécessaire pour remplir leurs obligations respectives au titre de l'ensemble des règles et règlements visés à l'article 1, notamment pour le suivi, l'établissement de rapports, la communication, la publication, l'évaluation, la gestion financière, les vérifications et les audits et, le cas échéant, pour déterminer l'éligibilité des participants.

2. In accordance with Article 4 of Regulation (EU) No 1060/2021, the MA, other programme bodies and the Commission shall be allowed to process personal data where necessary for the purpose of carrying out their respective obligations under the body of rules and regulations referred to in Article 1, in particular for monitoring, reporting, communication, publication, evaluation, financial management, verifications and audits and, where applicable, for determining the eligibility of participants.

3. L'AG peut transférer les données relatives au projet et/ou les données personnelles aux organes du programme et aux autorités nationales concernées aux mêmes fins que celles énumérées au paragraphe 2 du présent article.

3. The MA may transfer project and /or personal data to relevant programme bodies and national authorities for the same purposes as listed in paragraph 2 of this article.

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Dispositions finales Final Provisions

1. Le manuel du programme et les données du projet sont considérés comme faisant partie intégrante du contrat de subvention. En cas de modification du manuel du programme, la dernière version s'applique dès sa publication sur le site du programme et le CdF sera informé de cette publication. Toute modification substantielle des données du projet fera l'objet d'une demande de changement soumise par le CdF dans le Portail Interreg Europe et approuvée par le SC au nom de l'AG.

1. The programme manual and the project data are considered as an integral part of the subsidy contract. In case the programme manual is modified, the latest version applies as soon as it is published on the programme website and the LP will be informed about this publication. Any substantial modification of the project data will be subject to a request for change submitted by the LP in the Interreg Europe Portal and approved by the JS on behalf of the MA.

2. Le présent contrat de subvention entre en vigueur à la date de la signature de la dernière de ses deux parties, AG ou CdF. Dans le cas des activités du projet réalisées dans la phase postérieure au jour de la décision de sélection par le Comité de suivi mais avant l'entrée en vigueur du présent contrat de subvention tel que défini ci- dessus, les dispositions du présent contrat de subvention s'appliquent déjà à cette phase de réalisation du projet.

2. This subsidy contract shall enter into force on the date the last of its two parties, MA or LP, signs. In the case of project activities carried out in the phase after the day of the selection decision by the Monitoring Committee but before the entry into force of this subsidy contract as defined above, the provisions of this subsidy contract shall already apply to this phase of project implementation.

3. La période d'exécution du présent contrat prend fin lorsque les obligations prévues par le présent contrat sont remplies tant par l'AG que par le CdF, et que le délai mentionné à l'article 6.4 est expiré.

3. The execution period of this contract shall end when the obligations set forth in this contract are fulfilled both by the MA and the LP and the period mentioned in article 6.4 has expired.

4. Si une disposition du présent contrat de subvention s'avérait totalement ou partiellement inapplicable, les parties au contrat de subvention s'engagent à remplacer la disposition inapplicable par une disposition applicable qui se rapproche le plus possible de l'objectif de la disposition inapplicable.

4. If any provision in this subsidy contract should be wholly or partly ineffective, the parties to the subsidy contract undertake to replace the ineffective provision by an effective provision which comes as close as possible to the purpose of the ineffective provision.

5. Les modifications du présent contrat doivent être faites par écrit.

5. Amendments to the present contract must be made in writing.

6. La langue du Programme est l'anglais. Par conséquent, toute correspondance avec le SC et l’AG dans le cadre de ce contrat doit être en anglais et doit être envoyée au SC.

6. The Programme language is English. Therefore, all correspondence with the JS and MA under this contract must be in English and must be sent to the JS.

Annexe 1 - Dernière version approuvée du formulaire de candidature disponible sur le Portail Interreg Europe.

Annex 1 - Latest approved version of the application form available in the Interreg Europe Portal.

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Signature des parties Signature of the Parties

Pour l'Autorité de Gestion : For the Managing Authority:

J'accepte par la présente le contenu et les dispositions du contrat de subvention.

I hereby accept the content and provisions of the subsidy contract.

Je confirme également être officiellement habilité à signer ce contrat.

I also confirm to be officially entitled to sign this contract.

Nom et prénom du signataire Name and surname of the signatory:

Fonction du signataire Function of the signatory:

Nom de l’organisation Name of the organisation:

  Signature

  Date

Pour le Chef de File : For the Lead Partner :

J'accepte par la présente le contenu et les dispositions du contrat de subvention. Je confirme également être officiellement habilité à signer ce contrat.

I hereby accept the content and provisions of the subsidy contract. I also confirm to be officially entitled to sign this contract.

Nom et prénom du signataire Name and surname of the signatory:

Fonction du signataire Function of the signatory:

Nom de l’organisation Name of the organisation:

  Signature

  Date

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A Project overview

A.1 Project identification Title

82/110

Acronym

7/18

Project ID

Name of the lead partner organisation

Policy objective

Specific objective

Project duration

Duration Start date End date

Core phase 36 months 01 May 2025 30 April 2028

Follow-up phase 12 months 01 May 2028 30 April 2029

Closure phase 3 months 01 May 2029 31 July 2029

Is this application a resubmission of a proposal that was not approved under an earlier call?

Strategic Harmonization and Advanced Reporting for Policy Enhancement and Insights

SHARPEI

03C1103

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region

Smarter Europe (policy objective 1)

Digitisation

No

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A.2 Project summary Please give a short overview of the project (in the style of a press release) focusing in particular on the issue addressed, the partnership and the overall objective. Please note that, should the project be approved, this summary will be published on the programme’s website. (In English language)

1893/2000

The project addresses the need for improved efficiency in managing Cohesion Policy and regional programs. By integrating advanced data-driven decision-making and AI technologies, SHARPEI aims to optimize daily management, strategic planning, monitoring, and evaluation processes, ensuring efficient resource allocation and reducing regional disparities. The project includes PPs from Italy, Sweden, Portugal, France, Belgium, Spain, Hungary, and Estonia, thus allowing a large framework for exchanging experiences, with alla partners playing a key role in the project's phases, focusing on context assessment, interregional learning and GPs exchange, stakeholder engagement through thematic workshops, staff exchanges, and study visits. This leads to policy improvement in each region followed by a final monitoring phase to evaluate results. These activities aim to build capacity in the PPs region, foster innovation, and ensure effective AI tool integration. By working on its three main paths (efficiency, accountability, forecast) along with a horizontal one (Cybersecurity Reliability and Compliance Backbone to set new standards for security and legislative compliance in data and AI use), SHARPEI aims to provide scalable solutions to enhance administrative capacity across EU regions, crucial for growth and innovation. The project stands out by focusing on the intelligent use of data and AI in cohesion policy and regional programs management tools. Interregional learning and GPs exchanging will develop methodologies beneficial for current and future EU Cohesion Policy programming periods not only for PPs but also for other MAs across EU. All project achievements and results will be shared into thematic/technical forum and platforms and disseminated across EU to foster debate and discussion on their application for future improvements in policy-making and program management

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B Partners / associated policy authorities Overview partners

Partner number ⬆ Organisation Role Country

Geographical area

Interreg/ Norwegian funds

Total partner contribution

Total partner budget

1 Emilia-Romagna Region Lead Partner

Italy (Italia) South 339,280.00 84,820.00 424,100.00

2 Region Västerbotten Partner Sweden (Sverige) North 219,470.40 54,867.60 274,338.00

3 Cohesion and Development Agency Partner Portugal (Portugal) South 148,001.60 37,000.40 185,002.00

4 Normandy Regional Council Partner France (France) West 189,203.20 47,300.80 236,504.00

5 Province of Antwerp Partner Belgium (Belgique/België)

West 126,932.00 31,733.00 158,665.00

6 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Partner Spain (España) South 100,772.00 25,193.00 125,965.00

7 Pannon Business Network Association Partner Hungary (Magyarország)

East 170,560.00 42,640.00 213,200.00

8 State Shared Service Centre Partner Estonia (Eesti) North 190,956.80 47,739.20 238,696.00

1,485,176.00 371,294.00 1,856,470.00

Overview associated policy authorities

Organisation ⬆ Country

National Development Centre Hungary (Magyarország)

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B.1.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

Italy (Italia)

Emilia-Romagna Region

Lead Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 4/111

Organisation details

Name in English

21/200

Name in original language

22/200

Address

21/200

Postal code

5/200

City

7/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

11/200

Website

38/200

Emilia-Romagna Region

Regione Emilia-Romagna

I want to change the partner name

Viale Aldo Moro n. 44

40127

Bologna

Italy (Italia) x

Nord-Est

Emilia-Romagna

Bologna

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

02086690373

https://www.regione.emilia-romagna.it/

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 5/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

63/200

Address

21/200

Postal code

5/200

City

7/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

Regional public authority

80%

Directorate General for Knowledge, Research, Labour, Enterprise

Viale Aldo Moro n. 44

40127 Bologna

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 6/111

B.2.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

Sweden (Sverige)

Region Västerbotten

Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 7/111

Organisation details

Name in English

19/200

Name in original language

19/200

Address

24/200

Postal code

6/200

City

4/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

14/200

Website

34/200

Region Västerbotten

Region Västerbotten

I want to change the partner name

Västra Norrlandsgatan 13

901 09

Umeå

Sweden (Sverige) x

Norra Sverige

Övre Norrland

Västerbottens län

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

SE232100022201

https://www.regionvasterbotten.se/

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 8/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

Regional public authority

80%

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 9/111

B.3.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

Portugal (Portugal)

Cohesion and Development Agency

Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 10/111

Organisation details

Name in English

31/200

Name in original language

39/200

Address

29/200

Postal code

8/200

City

6/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

9/200

Website

24/200

Cohesion and Development Agency

Agência para o Desenvolvimento e Coesão

I want to change the partner name

Avenida 5 de Outubro, n.º 153

1050-053

Lisboa

Portugal (Portugal) x

Continente

Área Metropolitana de Lisboa

Área Metropolitana de Lisboa

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

510928374

https://www.adcoesao.pt/

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 11/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

National public authority

80%

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 12/111

B.4.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

France (France)

Normandy Regional Council

Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 13/111

Organisation details

Name in English

25/200

Name in original language

29/200

Address

16/200

Postal code

5/200

City

4/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

13/200

Website

25/200

Normandy Regional Council

Conseil Regional de Normandie

I want to change the partner name

Abbaye aux Dames

14035

CAEN

France (France) x

Normandie

Basse-Normandie

Calvados

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

FR75200053403

https://www.normandie.fr/

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 14/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

Regional public authority

80%

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 15/111

B.5.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

Belgium (Belgique/België)

Province of Antwerp

Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 16/111

Organisation details

Name in English

19/200

Name in original language

19/200

Address

23/200

Postal code

4/200

City

9/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

15/200

Website

63/200

Province of Antwerp

Provincie Antwerpen

I want to change the partner name

Koningin Elisabethlei 2

2018

Antwerpen

Belgium (Belgique/België) x

Vlaams Gewest

Prov. Antwerpen

Arr. Antwerpen

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

BE 0207.725.597

https://www.provincieantwerpen.be/en/provincial-government.html

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

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Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

Regional public authority

80%

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 18/111

B.6.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

Please provide a justification for not selecting the 15% flat rate for this cost category.

536/1000

Spain (España)

Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

For PP6 staff costs are already financed through the regional operational programme (Catalonia ERDF program 2021-2027 CCI 2021ES16RFPR010) therefore they cannot be financed by the Interreg Europe project to avoid double financing. Nevertheless, staff members will be actively involved in the project’s activities even if the IE does not directly finance them. They will benefit from the overall interregional learning exchange process to increase their knowledge and skills on practices/instruments they could apply in their daily work.

v4 | Approved

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https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 19/111

Organisation details

Name in English

61/200

Name in original language

58/200

Address

17/200

Postal code

5/200

City

9/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

11/200

Website

31/200

Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Departament d'Economia i Hisenda, Generalitat de Catalunya

I want to change the partner name

Carrer del Foc 57

08038

Barcelona

Spain (España) x

Este

Cataluña

Barcelona

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

ESS0811001G

http://fonseuropeus.gencat.cat/

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 20/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

Regional public authority

80%

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 21/111

B.7.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

Hungary (Magyarország)

Pannon Business Network Association

Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 22/111

Organisation details

Name in English

35/200

Name in original language

34/200

Address

21/200

Postal code

4/200

City

4/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

10/200

Website

19/200

Pannon Business Network Association

Pannon Gazdasági Hálózat Egyesület

I want to change the partner name

Győr Gesztenyefa u.4.

9027

Győr

Hungary (Magyarország) x

Dunántúl

Nyugat-Dunántúl

Győr-Moson-Sopron

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

HU18984303

https://www.pbn.hu/

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 23/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

Business support organisation

80%

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 24/111

B.8.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Partner financed through the Investment for Jobs and Growth programme (article 22(3) (d) (vi) of Regulation (EU) No 2021/1060)

Please select 'Yes' if the participation of the partner is financed directly by their regional operational programme and not through Interreg Europe (see programme manual for further information).

15% flat rate for 'Travel and accommodation'

By unticking the box above this partner will have to budget and report costs under Travel and accommodation on a real costs basis.

Estonia (Eesti)

State Shared Service Centre

Partner

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 25/111

Organisation details

Name in English

27/200

Name in original language

25/200

Address

7/200

Postal code

5/200

City

6/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

11/200

Website

21/200

State Shared Service Centre

Riigi Tugiteenuste Keskus

I want to change the partner name

Lõkke 4

10122

Tallin

Estonia (Eesti) x

Eesti

Eesti

Põhja-Eesti

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

EE102099579

https://www.rtk.ee/en

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 26/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Co-financing rate (%)

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

National public authority

80%

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 27/111

B.i.1 Organisation identity Country

Organisation

Organisation role

Joined project on Is partner of project until

Hungary (Magyarország)

National Development Centre

Associated Policy Authority

01 May 2025 31 Jul 2029

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 28/111

Organisation details

Name in English

27/200

Name in original language

27/200

Address

22/200

Postal code

4/200

City

8/200

Country

Nuts 1

Nuts 2

Nuts 3

VAT number (or other identifier)

13/200

Website

19/200

National Development Centre

Nemzeti Fejlesztési Központ

I want to change the partner name

Wesselényi utca 20-22.

1077

Budapest

Hungary (Magyarország) x

Közép-Magyarország

Budapest

Budapest

If you consider the country or Nuts regions of this organisation wrong, please contact [email protected].

15850258-1-42

https://kormany.hu/

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 29/111

Legal status

Type of partner

Department details if different from parent organisation The department information only applies to the partner in this project.

Department name

0/200

Address

0/200

Postal code

0/200

City

0/200

Public body or body governed by public law

If you consider the legal status of this organisation is wrong, please contact [email protected].

National public authority

v4 | Approved

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C.1 Issue addressed What is the common regional development issue addressed by the project? Please make sure this information is coherent with the programme specific objective you selected in section A and with the description of the policy instruments in section D.

967/1000

Why is this issue important for European regions? Please be as specific as possible (data and statistics are welcome if possible).

1000/1000

How does the project contribute to the EU Cohesion policy? Does it also contribute to other European strategies or policies?

980/1000

C.2 Project’s overall objective The project’s overall objective is to improve the implementation of regional development policies in the field of Smarter Europe (policy objective 1), in particular to improve the policy instruments described in section D of the present application.

Please further describe the project’s overall objective below.

866/1000

C.3 Project innovative character Please explain the innovative character of the project and of its expected results, in particular in comparison to similar initiatives/projects you are aware of.

The project addresses the need for improving efficiency and effectiveness in managing Cohesion Policy and similar regional policy instruments sharing a data-based approach. The project aims to fill the gap between policy programming and implementation by fully integrating in the processes, advanced data-driven implementation tools, decision-making and AI technologies. This will enhance the strategic planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation processes, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently, policy objectives are met effectively, and results are properly disseminated. The project also seeks to improve stakeholders engagement and accountability, fostering a more transparent and inclusive approach to regional development. Another goal is also to share and develop among partners new tools to be potentially used in view of re-programming current regional programs and to provide possible prototypes for post 2027 cohesion policy programs.

This issue at hand plays a key role for European regions, as efficient management of cohesion policy programs directly impacts fund allocation and project outcomes. Using AI can reduce administrative burdens, cut costs, and speed up the processing of applications and reporting—common challenges in EU funding frameworks. A recent report highlighted inefficiencies as a major obstacle in EU fund absorption, thus pointing out that improved digital integration could enhance performance (Ciffolilli and Pompili, 2023). AI tools are also useful to address compliance issues and optimize resource distribution. Integrating AI into program management supports the EU's Digital Decade goal of achieving 100% of online public services by 2030, aligning with broader EU digital transformation objectives to keep regions competitive and innovative. This AI exploration could provide scalable solutions to boost administrative capacity across EU regions: a key ingredient for sustained growth and innovation

This project directly contributes to the EU Cohesion Policy by enhancing administrative efficiency and capacity in managing European structural funds, which are pivotal in reducing disparities between EU regions. The project is aligned to the Cohesion Policy's goal to promote socio-economic development, to be closer to citizens and to improve the quality of life across Europe through improved and effective service delivery. Additionally, the project is compliant with EU’s Digital Single Market strategy, which aims to bolster Europe's digital capacities in high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. By focusing on AI, the project complements efforts to achieve a smarter Europe, enhancing digital innovation across regions. Furthermore, the project is consistent with the European Green Deal by potentially reducing the carbon footprint of administrative operations through digitalization and AI, supporting the EU’s ambitious climate targets.

The project’s contribution to Policy Objective 1, 'A Smarter Europe,' lies in its aim to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of policy instruments by integrating advanced data-driven decision-making and AI technologies. Within PO 1, the project strongly contributes to the challenge of increasing the digitalization of public administration. By conducting a comprehensive feasibility study, the project will assess the current use of data and AI in policy management, identify gaps and needs, and propose innovative solutions. This will result in more informed decision-making, better resource allocation, and improved monitoring and evaluation processes. Ultimately, the project also seeks to foster a more strategic, responsive, and accountable approach to citizens and beneficiaries through data technologies, enhancing the understanding and use of EU funds.

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987/1000

For projects deriving from past Interreg experiences (follow-up projects), please clarify the added-value of this cooperation compared to the previous experience.

59/1000

C.4 Project approach Please describe the approach/methodology adopted to achieve the project’s objectives within the core phase.

How is the learning process organised at regional and interregional levels? If applicable, please describe the different steps you envisage to reach the project’s objective. What is the purpose of the different types of activities proposed? In particular, how do they contribute to individual and/or organisational learning? How are these activities interrelated? How do you ensure the involvement of stakeholders in the learning process?

Although other projects are already exploring AI applications in PA, none of these have a specific focus on the smart integration of data&AI tools into daily management of regional/national programs. It will build on results of ongoing projects on the same topic. ENAIBLER, although SHARPEI will also work on the use of AI tools to implement better policies&services, it keeps a specific focus on direct application of AI tools/use of data into daily management of funded programmes/policies planning. AI4Citizen first outcomes (improving/creating policy mechanisms for safe and ethical adoption of AI in PA) will be taken into account for the implementation of the SHARPEI horizontal theme. Furthermore, SHARPEI will differ from the 2 projects in the industrial sector (EMBRAISME, PROACTSME) by working on the use of AI tools to implement policies and services, but maintaining a specific focus on the direct application of these AI tools in programme management/future policy planning.

This project does not derive from past Interreg experiences

v4 | Approved

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Within its core phase the project adopts a structured approach to achieve its objectives through activities promoting mutual learning and collaboration among partners. The methodology includes experiences exchanges, thematic workshops, staff exchanges, identification and sharing of good practices and study visits.

The core phase can be divided into 4 steps:

1. Framework Setting

- Establishing the project framework and detailing roles and responsibilities of partners

- Designing an evidence-based methodology

2. Context Assessment

- Design and implementation of the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey

- Identifying good practices and setting needs to develop specific competencies of the partners within the paths

- Finalizing the thematic workshops structure

3. Interregional Learning and Good Practices Exchange

- Completing the workshops and evaluating during the internal mid-term assessment the opportunity to continue exploring specific themes.

- Defining the staff exchange programme to be implemented in the next step.

4. Policy Instrument Improvement Phase

- Implementing improvements to policy instruments based on learnings and exchanges.

The learning process is planned both at the interregional and regional level: regular in-person meetings facilitate direct experience exchange, presentation of survey results, sharing best practices, and study visits. Online workshops sessions provide continuous engagement opportunities. Joint Interregional Reports consolidate findings from all partners, fostering a shared strategy.

Furthermore, each partner guarantees a continuous involvement of the defined Local Stakeholder Groups, as well as dissemination activities aimed within the organization, to share the knowledge acquired during project activities.

Throughout the project, activities will be organized around three main following fields:

1. Efficiency Path: leveraging AI to streamline routine activities, reduce low added value activities like management verifications, saving time and increasing efficiency.

2. Accountability Path: using AI to enhance transparency and faster reporting through a semantic data layer.

3. Forecast Path: utilizing AI predictive analysis to anticipate trends at the territorial level to better understand beneficiaries' evolving needs.

4. Cybersecurity, Reliability, and Compliance Backbone: ensuring AI systems are secure and reliable, safeguarding data integrity, and analysing compliance with legislation.

The main tools used in the project are as follows:

1. 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey: analyses the current state of AI integration in cohesion policy programs, identifying potential tools and technologies

2. Thematic Workshops: in-depth sessions designed to enhance the understanding of cutting-edge technologies involved in the exchange of experiences.

3. Staff Exchange: allows partners to gain hands-on learning experiences by visiting each other’s regions, facilitating direct knowledge transfer

4. Good Practices and Study Visits: structured visits and workshops showcase successful implementations and best practices, fostering shared learning and innovation.

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Please explain the approach/methodology envisaged for the follow-up phase (i.e. last year of the project)? To what extent are the stakeholders expected to be involved in the follow-up phase?

951/1000

Communication Strategy:

Presented during the KOM, this strategy outlines the goals, vision, target audiences, dissemination approach, key messages, and channels. It includes press releases, newsletters, social media updates, and open access articles to keep stakeholders informed and engaged. Interactive workshops and meetings encourage stakeholder participation, facilitating two-way communication between project partners and stakeholders.

The entire project emphasizes collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring that AI tools are effectively integrated to enhance efficiency, accountability, and predictive capabilities while maintaining security and compliance.

In the follow-up phase, the focus is on monitoring how policy learnings are transformed into action. Sem 7 starts with an online meeting to agree on monitoring plans tailored to each PP. These plans guide documentation and evaluation. PPs will implement action plans, and organize LS events to document progress and gather feedback. A in-person meeting will review policy impacts, share best practices, and provide collaborative support. Expected outcomes include detailed monitoring plans and actions. Sem 8 involves ongoing monitoring, consistent communication with MA, and preparation for a final dissemination event in Tallinn. This event will showcase project results and include a study visit. Reports will be prepared, summarizing outcomes and stakeholder feedback. Stakeholders are engaged through local events, regular updates, newsletters, and participation in the final event, ensuring active involvement and support throughout the project

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3838/4000951/1000

C.5 Project indicators

Output indicators

Code RCO87

Title N° of organisations cooperating across borders

Target 68

Code RCO84

Title N° of pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects

Target 0

Code OI4

Title N° of policy instruments addressed

Target 8

Code OI5

Title N° of interregional policy learning events organised

Target 8

Code O16

Title N° of good practices identified

Target 16

Result indicators

Code RII2

Title N° of organisations with increased capacity due to their participation in project activities

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Performance (%) 60

Code RI3

Title N° of policy instruments improved thanks to the project

Performance (%) 100

C.6 Communication strategy Please indicate the overall objectives of the project’s communication strategy.

433/500

Please describe the target groups of your communication strategy.

500/500

Please explain the main communication tools and channels (including social media outreach) that will be used.

498/500

Please describe briefly how the communication strategy will be implemented and evaluated.

41

8

The overall objectives of the project’s communication strategy are to ensure continuous engagement and information flow among stakeholders and other Managing Authorities, promote transparency, and disseminate the project's activities, achievements, and best practices. Furthermore, the project aims to concur to the EU debate about the smart use of data and the integration of AI tools in Cohesion Policy and other Regional Programs.

SHARPEI targets different categories of the local ecosystem: PPs, including staff members not directly involved in the project, stakeholders POLICY MAKERS: regional, national auth.s responsible for policy instruments MA: public auth.s interested in new tools to be used in current and future regional programs RESEARCH&INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS: SMEs, start-ups, Universities and Research Centres PUBLIC: citizens, CSOs EU INSTITUTIONS, COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE: provide prototypes for post 2027 Programs

The main communication tools and channels used in the project include press releases, promo videos, newsletters, social media updates, articles. Press releases and articles will be issued for key milestones. Social medias will be regularly updated with infos about the project activities. LSG events will generate articles for the partners' homepages. Additionally, participation in INTERREG EUROPE PROGRAMME events and involvement in EU Platforms and Communities of Practics will enhance outreach.

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499/500

Will the management of the project’s communication be externalised?

C.7 Horizontal principles Please indicate to which extent the project contributes to EU horizontal principles, and justify your choice.

Sustainable development

Type of contribution

Description of the contribution

997/1000

Equal opportunities and non-discrimination

Type of contribution

Description of the contribution

717/1000

Equality between men and women

Type of contribution

During the KoM, a Communication Strategy will be approved by PPs. The strategy will detail objectives, target groups, tools and roles, providing common guidelines for both internal and external communication according to IE programme requirements. A communication officer will be appointed by each PP, responsible for regional communication activities. In each project meeting, activities will be presented and reviewed to monitor and evaluate their impact and agree on corrective measures if needed

No

Neutral

The SHARPEI project significantly contributes to sustainable development by leveraging advanced AI technologies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of regional development policies. By integrating data-driven decision-making and AI, the project aims to streamline administrative processes, reduce resource waste, and ensure optimal allocation of EU funds. This directly supports sustainable development by promoting more efficient use of resources, minimizing redundant activities, and fostering a culture of innovation and digital transformation in PA. Additionally, the project's focus on reducing the carbon footprint through digital solutions aligns with the European Green Deal, aiming to make administrative operations more environmentally friendly. The implementation of AI and data tools also supports sustainable economic growth by enhancing the competitiveness and innovation capacity of regions, thereby contributing to the broader goals of sustainable development within the EU

Neutral

The SHARPEI project actively promotes equal opportunities and non-discrimination by ensuring that AI-driven tools and data integration processes are accessible and beneficial to all stakeholders involved. The project includes comprehensive capacity-building activities designed to equip partners with the necessary skills to utilize AI technologies effectively. This ensures that regions with varying levels of technological advancement can equally benefit from the project's outcomes. This inclusive strategy helps to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation and improved policy management are equitably distributed, thereby reducing disparities and fostering a more inclusive regional development process.

Neutral

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Description of the contribution

980/1000

C.8 Project management C.8.1 Overall management

Please describe how the overall management will be ensured? Which body will make strategic project decisions and according to which rule? What will be the composition of this body? If relevant, how will the responsibilities be shared among the partners?

1933/2000

C.8.2 Day-to-day coordination

Please describe how the day-to-day coordination will be ensured.

987/1000

Will the project coordination be externalised?

C.8.3 Financial management and reporting

Please describe how the financial management and reporting procedures will be ensured.

The SHARPEI project contributes to gender equality by embedding gender-sensitive approaches into its framework and activities. The project's methodology includes specific measures to ensure that gender perspectives are considered in the design and implementation of AI and data-driven tools. For instance, the project emphasizes the importance of gender-balanced participation in workshops and stakeholder engagements. By promoting equal representation and participation of women in these activities, SHARPEI aims to address gender imbalances in the field of AI and data management. Furthermore, the project's communication strategy highlights the importance of gender equality and aims to raise awareness about gender issues in policy management and digital transformation. Through these efforts, SHARPEI not only advances the integration of gender equality into regional development policies but also supports the broader EU objective of promoting gender equality in all sectors

The joint work of a transnational partnership requires clear and efficient management governance to ensure a smooth and efficient project coordination and overcome possible risks and setbacks. For these reasons, a Project Coordination Team (PCT) will be set up, composed by the LP’s Project Coordinator (PC) and Financial Manager (FM) and the Communication Manager (CM). PCT will take care of sharing the relevant information and knowledge with the partnership and coordinating the project and monitoring its progress. In addition, a Steering Committee (SC) chaired by the LP will be appointed, composed by representatives of all PPs with the task of taking strategic decisions and solving any possible risks and/or disagreement. During the kick-off-meeting LP will present the functioning rules and SC composition, all the PPs will have to agree on. Strategic decisions will be approved by the majority of votes. The SC will be responsible for monitoring SHARPEI project performance (outputs and indicators) and guiding its implementation, such as assessing and approving work plans, project reports, and other exchange of experience and dissemination activities. The SC will also discuss potential changes to the project schedule and monitor the project expenditure, namely by ensuring spending plan and budget lines are kept aligned with estimations. The LP will be also responsible for transnational management of activities and financial coordination and to keep contacts with the IE JS and MA. All PPs will guarantee a sound financial management of project resources, namely collecting evidence to certify their expenditures and preparing technical reports. LP will manage the participation to the Policy Platform, organising in case a peer review and monitoring PPs to input their GPs planned in the platform. SC meetings will be organized every six months during the core phase, while leaving a final one during the follow-up

Project Coordinator (PC), Financial Manager (FM) and Communication Manager (CM), are responsible for day-to-day project management and coordination. PC is the key contact person for the IE JS and ensure the partnership’s coordination through regular contact via email, phone or video calls. SC agreed on a common system (e.g. Teams) to share information and store documents. The FM is responsible for accounts, financial reporting, internal handling of ERDF funds and national contributions. CM (PP7) is responsible for drawing a communication strategy including tasks allocation, timing and materials agreed by PPs during the KoM. Each partner region will appoint a project manager responsible for ensuring steady communications with LP and PPs, as well as for managing regional local working group meetings (1 per semester) and inform them about the project progress. External communication activities are facilitated by LP/CM in charge to manage all the project communication channels

Yes

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798/1000

Will the financial management be externalised?

FM is responsible for accounting and financial reporting and works closely with PPs to ensure a sound financial management and reporting process. FM monitors budget development and spending plans and is familiar with accounting rules, EU and national legislation, public procurement. Reporting procedure, financial rules and useful templates are shared with PPs during the KoM. PPs will appoint a financial manager responsible for preparing biannual financial reports collected by FM, integrated in the project progress report and submitted to the JS. Following the approval of the progress report, LP receives and transfer the ERDF funds to all PPs. During SC meetings PPs review the spending plans and discuss of any critical situation or changes that have been arisen prior to the proposal to JS

Yes

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D Main policy instruments addressed Overview main policy instruments addressed

Number ⬆ Name of the policy instrument Name of the policy responsible authority Involvement of the policy responsible authority

Investment for Jobs and Growth programme Country

1 RP Emilia-Romagna ERDF 2021-2027 Emilia-Romagna Region Partner Yes Italy (Italia)

2 Regional Development Strategy (RUS) Vasterbotten - RUS 2020-2030

Region Västerbotten Partner No Sweden (Sverige)

3 Governance Model of European funds 2021-2027 Cohesion and Development Agency Partner No Portugal (Portugal)

4 Regional Scheme for Higher Education, Research and Innovation 2022-2028 (SRESRI)

Normandy Regional Council Partner No France (France)

5 Interreg Belgium-The Netherlands 2021-2027 Province of Antwerp Partner No Belgium (Belgique/België)

6 Programme Catalonia ERDF 2021-2027 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Partner Yes Spain (España)

7 Economic Development and Innovation Operational Program Plus (EDIOP PLUS)

National Development Centre Associated Policy Authority Yes Hungary (Magyarország)

8 Programme for Cohesion Policy Funds 2021-2027 State Shared Service Centre Partner Yes Estonia (Eesti)

Overview pilot actions

Number ⬆ Title Policy instrument(s) concerned

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D.1 Policy instrument 1

D.1.1 Territorial context and general description

D.1.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1500/1500

D.1.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

32/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

Being the first region in Italy to issue a regional law on R&I in 2002, since then Emilia-Romagna (E-R) developed, also with the support of EU funds, a large and diffused regional research ecosystem. One of its champions is undoubtedly the Tecnopolo Manifattura-Hub of the Data Valley hosting some of the most powerful High Performance Computers in the world (i.e. Leonardo, the new European pre-exascale supercomputer). It is the international reference for supercomputing, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, with applications in science and technology fields of meteorology, climatology, health, earth sciences and industry. Data centre of the EU Centre for Medium-Term Weather Forecasts is located there as well together with the Big Data Association set up to link and exploit knowledge, capacities, research and innovation potentials of the regional community to leverage the effects of investments made and to maximize their impacts, locally and at national, EU and international levels. In this framework and with this huge potential, the regional government developed its own data strategy also covering all the different aspects of administrative services offered to citizens. The challenge of the project is thus to take advantage of this potential in terms of assets, knowledge and existing technologies to develop procedures and tools based on data to make management of EU funds regional programmes more effective, efficient and communicative for potential and effective beneficiaries

RP Emilia-Romagna ERDF 2021-2027

Yes

Regional

Partner

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region

The policy instrument consists of 4 main priorities, of which one of the most relevant and largest in terms of budget allocated is Priority 1.Research, innovation, competitiveness. It responds to several challenges, in close relation with the regional S3 setting the framework of integrated and coordinated actions of regional R&I policies. The topic addressed by the project falls under the ERDF specific objective 1.2 “Reaping the benefits of digitisation for citizens, companies, research organisations and public authorities” with specific reference to the “Digital transformation of public administration and implementation of the regional data strategy”. Main aim of this action is to strengthen the path already taken by regional and other public authorities to change administrative processes, working models, organizational culture and nature of many services moving to a fully digital&simplified administration. This will be done in coherence with the regional Data Strategy and by promoting the data integration and sharing of common databases. Particular attention is paid to the promotion and encouragement of digital public services that are user-centred, integrated, augmented, simple and secure, responsive to societal changes, collaborative culture, transparent processes, open tools. In addition, the planned interventions go in the direction of contributing to the objectives of the action lines for the development of the PAs’ administrative capacity

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1470/1500

D.1.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1497/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

0/1500

Please select...

Yes

Testing innovative services based on AI applications and aimed at more effective, efficient and communicative management of cohesion policy programs is an important addition to the current policy instrument. By targeting potential and actual beneficiaries of the ERDF RP, it can help expand the range of administrative services already tested for citizens or other local public administrations. Testing systems for applying IA to management verifications of cohesion policy programs, that is one of the main outputs expected by the project, can help to create a set of procedures that can be standardized and used for other investment programs at the regional level. At the same time using predictive AI analysis to anticipate market trends and better understand the needs of beneficiaries – another project expected result - will ensure proactive and informed decision-making that can be usefully transferred to regional policies programming tools. Moreover, the enhancement of accountability processes improved thanks to this project, will allow for faster and more transparent reporting of results that may be usefully implemented in the participatory processes adopted at regional level. The Regional Programme could thus be further improved by the results of the project including new/improved services for potential and effective beneficiaries of cohesion policy programmes as a specific target of citizens into the existing measures, enabling further development of new data-driven services

Please select...

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D.1.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 1

Partner

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

970/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

995/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

992/1000

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region

As Managing Authority, Emilia-Romagna Region has already developed several experiences on the topic addressed by the project, in particular the use of data to improve accountability of 2014-2020 programming period results. For its closure, 3 data stories (storytelling) have been realised to describe program results using data in a communicative/easy-to-understand way to reach a larger target of citizens. Moreover, MA is working on the development of an integrated monitoring system for ERDF and ESF 2021-2027 programmes using AI technical. Looking at the area of management verifications, the MA is working on the development of two pilot cases on the use of AI as a technical support to staff evaluating verifications, considered a largely tedious and low added value activity. As regards the skills of the staff involved in the project and part of the MA, Emilia-Romagna can count on highly qualified people with technical knowledge in data management and AI tools

Emilia-Romagna will benefit from the cooperation with other PPs through the exchange of experiences on data-driven management tools and artificial intelligence tested in other contexts and aimed at making the management of complex programs more effective and administratively efficient. In particular, Emilia-Romagna will take advantage from the experience of other partners already experimenting management supporting tools to be used as basis for the development of similar tools for the management of ERDF Regional Programme through the introducing of new tools and techniques (i.e. chatbot or process reengineering through the use of AI). As Lead Partner, Emilia-Romagna will also promote interregional cooperation and exchange of GPs between the project partners on the use of data and predictive AI tools to support policy-makers decisions as well as the development of new AI-based common management procedures for cohesion policy programs with a view to the future post-2027 programming.

The regional government is a large public organisation responsible for a wide range of administrative functions and public services. The DG Knowledge, research, labour, enterprises is one of its 6 executive brunches, divided into 9 different technical/thematic departments supporting RPs programming&implementation in their respective areas. The DG is PP/APA in several proposals under this call (I-CSI EU; TASTINGEUROPE; SUCCESS SKILLS;LONGEVITY;SYNERGY; S4Tourism; SILVER-UP;MOTORS OF GROWTH) and is currently involved in project selected under the 1st (LEEWAY as PP) and 2nd (TALENT4S3 as PP) calls + others as APA. Experiences exchanged during this project will be deal with to avoid any overlap and to ensure the principle of avoiding double funding is fully respected. Our well-established experience in managing complex programmes/projects and the high level of expertise guarantees the commitment of all the necessary human resources& technical skills to implement them simultaneously

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D.1.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 1 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 6 entries.

48/300

80/300

20/300

83/300

189/300

33/300

Emilia-Romagna EDRF Regional Programme 2021-2027

Regional table for entrepreneurship (Tavolo Regionale per l’Imprenditoria - TRI)

Big Data Association

International Foundation Big Data and Artificial Intelligence for Human Development

Clust-ER Innovate (Association of companies, research centres and training organisations in Emilia-Romagna that collaborate in the fields of innovative service development and ICT research)

Regional network of communicators

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D.1.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

No

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D.2 Policy instrument 2

D.2.1 Territorial context and general description

D.2.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1489/1500

D.2.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

64/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

Region Västerbotten, with a population of 270,000, employs around 9,700 people in healthcare, public transport, regional development and culture. To meet current and future needs efficiently and sustainably, the region focuses on digital development and automation of manual tasks. The rapid advancement of technology urges discussions on its responsible use, a need recognized by the regional administration. RV sees significant opportunities in using AI for public services, leveraging its extensive data resources for developing AI systems. The region is promoting AI adoption to create a smarter economy, enhancing existing tools. Digital growth is crucial for the green transition, and RV is well-equipped with solid IT infrastructures (e.g. broadband, cloud computing) to leader the digital structural transformation by enhancing access to data combined with data-driven innovations and the use of AI for continued growth, competitiveness and prosperity addressing societal challenges like managing a sparse population and urban-rural disparities. To fully benefit, AI use in managing regional data needs improvement. Better mechanisms are required for monitoring the outcomes and impacts of the RUS 2020-2030 policy. Despite efforts to inform stakeholders and citizens, greater involvement in planning and implementing RUS 2020-2030 activities is needed. RV views AI as a fast and effective solution for improving accountability in public fund use and achieving strategic objectives

Regional Development Strategy (RUS) Vasterbotten - RUS 2020-2030

No

Regional

Partner

PP02 Region Västerbotten

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1454/1500

D.2.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1498/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

0/1500

The strategy outlines Västerbotten County’s goals for 2030 and guides policies, influencing the allocation of regional and EU project funds. RUS aims to meet global goals in Agenda 2030 with two sustainability objectives: Living Place: a community where people want to stay, visit, grow, work, and age with good conditions for all stages of life; Circular Place: manages climate change, creates economic opportunities, and preserves natural resources for future generations. The strategy main orientations are:1. Cohesive Region: Integrate development of cities, rural areas, and sparsely populated regions; 2. Equal and Inclusive Development: Ensure equal opportunities and reduce disparities; 3. Pioneer in Transition: Lead the shift to a circular society, prepared for climate changes. Priorities are: 1. Innovative and Smart Region: Foster collaboration, digitization, and innovation; 2. Sustainable Business Development: Support sustainable, resilient businesses; 3. Region Close By: Enhance sustainable mobility and infrastructure 4. Sustainable Living Environments: Manage natural heritage, culture, and sustainable consumption; 5. Health-Promoting Region: Encourage healthy lifestyles and provide safe care; 6. Region Rich in Skills: Promote equal participation through education and skill development. In the framework of this strategy, AI is a cross-cutting issue to each priority, enhancing regional development and cross-sectoral advancements

No

Yes

The project will enable the administration to integrate new tools for managing the RUS and related strategies, including AI solutions. It will also test AI-based predictive tools for better planning, to anticipate market trends more effectively and understand the evolving needs of beneficiaries for the next regional planning period. The Regional Development Strategy 2020-2030 is a roadmap for regional development in RV. The project will help the administration to improve this strategy in all priorities by incorporating AI solutions. Appropriate AI tools will be sought, tested, and assessed for all the processes of programming, monitoring and evaluation of the programs’ elements. It is expected that these process will be significantly and rapidly transformed. Guidelines for developing and deploying AI solutions will be produced in the four key public sector functions related to financing: i) improving internal operations of RV public administration, ii) enhancing policy making related to planning, implementing, monitoring and reporting financial measures, iii) improving financial measures service design and delivery, and iv) enhancing oversight, risk detection, and public integrity within government agencies and by external oversight bodies. Guidelines will include a series of actions and recommendations to scale up the use of AI in the RV in a safer/more effective manner to enable the tackled instrument continuous improvement, risk mitigation, and robust public engagement.

No

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D.2.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 2

Partner

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

713/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

784/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

566/1000

PP02 Region Västerbotten

Since 2020, Region Västerbotten has been running the "Intelligent Automation" project, aiming to identify business processes and tasks that can be managed by a digital assistant instead of employees. This allows regional staff to focus on other areas rather than repetitive manual tasks. So far, the project has automated approximately 60 different processes using Boost.ai’s chatbot across various operational areas. Additionally, since 2022, the region hosts AIM North AI for Medicine in Northern Sweden. This competence center focuses on applied AI for researchers throughout the northern healthcare region, involving Medical Technology R&D (MT-R&D) and the Department of Radiation Sciences at Umeå University.

RV will be an active partner contributing to the interregional exchange process as a pioneer and leader region in the adoption of AI in the healthcare sector, sharing its experience with partners. RV will profit from the involvement of partner answering similar needs of boosting AI in rural and peripheral areas in Europe in different economic sectors (healthcare, energy, transport, culture and tourism) as a means of better interaction between citizens, stakeholders and administration. The cross-fertilised knowledge will further expand the role of RV as a devoted leader of innovative policies and will support its effort in achieving its vision to create an attractive region with good living conditions for everyone and to spread this knowledge gained to other European regions

Region Västerbotten is currently a Lead Partner in CEI BOOST (1st call) and a partner in UNLOCK and DeepTechValleys (2nd call), focused on different objectives. Additionally, it is partner in three applications under the 3rd call in addition to SHARPEI: BetterBlue and Motors of Growth, each addressing different topics. RV has a proved experience the Interreg Europe project management and has the required human resources and technical skills to implement multiple projects at the same time and can be extended flexibly as a response to increasing project workload

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D.2.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 2 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 9 entries.

14/300

6/300

17/300

32/300

17/300

15/300

36/300

30/300

7/300

Codemill Umeå

AC-net

Malå municipality

Västerbotten Chamber of Commerce

Umeå Municipality

Umeå University

Research Institutes of Sweden – RISE

North Sweden Cleantech Network

Algoryx

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D.2.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

No

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D.3 Policy instrument 3

D.3.1 Territorial context and general description

D.3.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1461/1500

D.3.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

44/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

AD&C is a public entity with the mission of coordinating the European Structural and Investment Funds and the Regional Development Policy for Portugal. It concentrates functions related to global coordination, certification, payment, evaluation, communication, monitoring and auditing of operations. In this capacity, AD&C is responsible for developing and maintaining an integrated information system that serves as a single point of contact and application submission for all beneficiaries. This system includes a platform for Managing Authorities (AG+), a Datahub for data interoperability and system integration, and a contact center to support system users and beneficiaries. Beneficiaries and AD&C communicate through Balcão dos Fundos, Linha dos Fundos and a Contact Center, operated by a third party, using GoCenter and EasyVista Contact Center software. This software experiences several constraints, including issues with data extraction and integration with other information tools, and AD&C is planning to replace it. The current context of the Funds management ecosystem is characterized by an increased complexity in terms of organizational and procedural issues, while AD&C is facing the challenge of putting in place a new information system to support the 2021-27 programming period, in a situation where there is an increase in the number of applicants and a governance complexity resulting from the introduction of new layers in the ecosystem

Governance Model of European funds 2021-2027

No

National

Partner

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

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1495/1500

D.3.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1444/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

The Governance Model (GM) as well as related Programs was established by Decree-Law No5/2023. This law defines the organizational framework for coordination, management, certification, payment, auditing, monitoring, evaluation&communication tasks, in accordance with Reg.(EU)2021060. GM encourages coordination between the Programs part of Portugal 2030, maintaining and strengthening functional coordination networks. In the GM framework, AD&C is the body responsible for technical coordination and provision of information and common data system to all Programs, namely by creating the EU Funds Portal and ensuring the coordination of Linha dos Fundos - a multichannel service platform aimed to improve interaction with beneficiaries. Simplification is a guiding principle of GM, to reduce administrative costs in the management of funds. Through dematerialization, strengthen info systems interoperability and introduction of AI, particularly generative AI. To enhance the quality of services for both beneficiaries and MAs and to increase productivity by reducing HR and financial costs, and by facilitating decision-making. THe GM for EU fund defines governance bodies, functions and competencies. Therefore, it will be in force at least until the financial closure of the current programming period, which will never occur before December 2029. Furthermore results of the exchange of experiences under the SHARPEI project will feed into the design of the post-2027 programmes governance.

No

Yes

GM can leverage technological innovation to enhance productivity and service quality by using AI as part of its Digital Transformation initiatives. The use of AI in the management of funds as stated in the GM can include: • Customer support operator co-pilot: this involves summarizing previous customer contacts and providing real-time answers to queries by using information from the customer’s CRM profile, and other sources such as knowledge base and datahub. • Contact Data Exploitation: this entails analyzing and utilizing the content of customer contacts and integrating data from additional sources to make data-driven decisions, identify problems and improvement opportunities, and actively promote financing opportunities through outbound communication. • Beneficiary co-pilot chatbot: this involves providing helpful answers to customer queries using context and customer profile data. • Expenditure analysis: this aims to reduce the time spent by Managing Authorities (MAs) on the analysis and verification of "real-costs" expenditure. • Public procurement verifications:this aims to reduce the time spent on public procurement verifications through automated document analysis and checklist filling with corresponding explanations. • Selection of Operations: this involves recommending the application of selection criteria, aiding MAs in the selection of operations, and offering analysis that supports assessments and decisions

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 52/111

0/1500 v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 53/111

D.3.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 3

Partner

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

743/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

563/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

2/1000

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

AD&C has been coordinating the implementation of EU funds and the development and maintenance of an integrated information system that includes a platform serving Program Authorities (AG+), a Datahub to facilitate data interoperability and system integration, and a contact center to support users of those systems and beneficiaries, for several Programming cycles. AD&C has managed the development, realized by a 3rd party, of a RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation) application with a Chatbot interface, using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). The Chatbot IVO responds in natural language to queries drawing from its knowledge basis (regulations, calls, system usage), thus deflecting requests addressed to contact center operators.

AD&C will greatly benefit from the exchange of relevant experiences with other member states, gaining valuable insights that can be leveraged to enhance its own systems, processes, and methodologies. Given its coordinating responsibility, these improvements will not only enhance AD&C's operations but also have a positive ripple effect throughout the entire EU Funds ecosystem. This collaborative approach will ultimately contribute to a virtuous cycle of open innovation, fostering continuous improvement and shared successful practices with other member states

no

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 54/111

D.3.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 3 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 7 entries.

43/300

44/300

42/300

43/300

42/300

55/300

42/300

Managing Authority for Madeira 2030 Program

Managing Authority for Alentejo 2030 Program

Managing Authority for Centro 2030 Program

Managing Authority for Algarve 2030 Program

Managing Authority for Lisboa 2030 Program

Managing Authority for Techical Assistance 2030 Program

Managing Authority for Açores 2030 Program

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 55/111

D.3.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 56/111

D.4 Policy instrument 4

D.4.1 Territorial context and general description

D.4.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1298/1500

D.4.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

80/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

Normandy Region is in the process of integrating and adapting its practices by implementing AI in its administrative process. This new tool can help improve the monitoring of public policies by transferring the least valued tasks to AI. Indeed, as a regional authority, it manages a wide range of data. AI can help set-up an easier access to data in order to build a strategy coherent with the territorial needs and strengths, monitor it more efficiently and saving time for civil servants to focus on higher-valued and more strategic tasks. Besides, AI allows to save time on data processing and to provide targeted data supporting decision-making. With SHARPEI project, the objective of Normandy Region is to improve its monitoring capacities in the frame of its Regional Scheme for Higher Education, Research and Innovation 2022-2028. Focusing on analysis and monitor of trends on innovation and economic changes to design more effective policies fostering innovation and economic development. Some of the expected advantages will be: encouraging networking between local companies and public research centres; speed up preliminary procedures for public-private collaborative projects; analysing economic and innovation trends to maintain the competitiveness and attractiveness of the territory

Regional Scheme for Higher Education, Research and Innovation 2022-2028 (SRESRI)

No

Regional

Partner

PP04 Normandy Regional Council

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 57/111

1380/1500

D.4.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1318/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

The SRESRI programme for the period 2022-2028 is a regulatory and strategic document adopted by the Regional Council of Normandy after a wide consultation of Regional stakeholders. It is updated at every renewal of the Regional Council (last election in June 2021) in order to set a revised strategy to be declined in the operational funding solutions for the Higher Education, Research and Innovation ecosystem in Normandy. In the frame of SHARPEI project, the focus will be on the two first goals of the programme: 1) Mobilize academic and innovation forces to support Normandy in its transition and its Smart Specialization Strategy: the contribution of the Normandy Region in the SHARPEI project will not tackle the whole strategy but rather focus on the Region's support to strengthening public-private links and increasing the mobilization capacity of stakeholders in the service of societal issues expressed within the S3. 2) Support the ambitions of Norman students, teacher-researchers, researchers and Higher Education, R&I institutions to achieve their goals. The specific measure the Region want to focus on in the SHARPEI project is the policy «Normandie Innovation» tackling more specifically the following features: collaborative innovative projects; knowledge transfert and maturation; student entrepreneurship and young graduates; innovative businesses incubators

No

Yes

The use of simplified procedures is highly required in the management of Normandy SRESRI Scheme. AI plays a crucial role in improving performance and efficiency. As partner of SHARPEI, Normandy Region will learn from the experience of other PPs how to integrate AI in the programme/policy management. Main benefits will be: 1) Enabling the identification of future innovation trends to address S3 challenges with the help of data collected by the SRESRI programme to support a regional ESRI observatory, whose data and perimeter are currently being tested and defined to address the position of the Regional Higher education, research and innovation ecosystem nationally and internationally; 2) Matchmaking between needs of Norman SMEs and skills of local labs to meet S3 challenges. Thus, promoting innovative collaboration between SMEs and labs (e.g. chatbot systems to address specific questions); 3) Improving the selection criteria for innovative projects to level up the quality of innovative collaborative projects. Offering analysis to support assessments and awarding decisions; 4) Speeding up the selection procedures by introducing automated processes for overlapping procedures, thus allowing staff to focus on on more valuable tasks (i.e. network animation, promotion of SRESRI, S3 and projects follow-up)

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 58/111

0/1500 v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 59/111

D.4.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 4

Partner

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

818/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

957/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

740/1000

PP04 Normandy Regional Council

The “Major Projects and Innovation” and “Higher Education and Research” departments drew up the SRESRI in 2022. They are responsible the animation of the Regional Research and Innovation ecosystem. By integrating AI in these processes, the Region wishes to better managing its strategy by gathering R&I territorial needs, modernise its funding schemes and to propose innovative tools to promote regional innovation and economic development. The Region is currently working on improving its process of development and monitoring of public policies by the use on AI. The policy “Normandy Innovation”, that will be the main case study in the SHARPEI project and the measure of the regional scheme for higher education, research and innovation is strongly linked to the regional smart specialization strategy for 2022-2028

Normandy Region is at the beginning of the integration of AI in its administrative process. Taking part in this Interreg project will help improve the setting-up and monitoring of its Higher Education R&I strategy, especially for the “Normandie Innovation” section. Within the Region various public research teams are already working on AI applications and are willing to work with the regional authority in setting up AI tools: - Direction for Digital Planning - University of Caen Normandy with GREYC laboratory “Research Group on Digital Sciences” and Nicolas Oresme Laboratory on Applied Mathematics ; - University of Rouen Normandy with the Raphael Salem Laboratory on Applied Mathematics - INSA Rouen – National Institute for Applied Sciences in Rouen with the LITIS Laboratory “Research team on Computer Science, Data processing and Systems” - ESIGELEC and CESI Engineering Schools. - Regional competitive clusters and industrial sector associations

Normandy Region was a partner of the project APPROVE funded by the INTERREG Europe (FEDER) 2014-2020: Advancing Public Participation and stakeholdeR engagement fOr the improVement of renewable Energy policies. For the period 2021-2027, Regional Council of Normandy is working on 4 different projects not yet submitted.The objective for the organisation being to be present in European networks, in order to benefit from experiences and good practices of other Regional or National Authorities. These 4 projects focus on different domains (territory planning, mobility, health and higher education). Each project is followed by different operational directions within the Regional Council. There is thus no overlapping between each projects.

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 60/111

D.4.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 4 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 12 entries.

27/300

28/300

100/300

61/300

69/300

37/300

37/300

97/300

59/300

92/300

41/300

94/300

University of Caen Normandy

University of Rouen Normandy

Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Rouen - National Institute of Applied Sciences of Rouen

ESIGELEC - Engineering school on intelligent systems in Rouen

CESI - Engineering school on informatics and digital science in Rouen

Development Agency for Normandy (ADN)

ADN - Development Agency for Normandy

Normandie AeroEspace - Regional Cluster of Aeronautics, Spatial, Defence and Security in Normandy

NEXTMOVE - Competitiveness cluster on Automotive Innovation

Normandie Valorisation - Experimental Company for the acceleration of technological transfer

Normandie Incubation – Regional incubator

Pôle Transactions Electroniques Sécurisées (Pôle TES) - Regional Cluster on digital innovation

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 61/111

D.4.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 62/111

D.5 Policy instrument 5

D.5.1 Territorial context and general description

D.5.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1484/1500

D.5.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

42/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

The Province of Antwerp – which acts as management authority (MA) for Interreg Belgium-The Netherlands – has a proven track-record for the proper and financially sound management of EU funds, although the use of AI or other advanced technologies is rather limited so far. Flanders Audit Authority (AA) initiated the innovation project CATE in 2022 in order to develop a future-proof platform that assesses the functioning of the management and control systems of European structural funds in a fully autonomous way. The platform is modular in nature and the completion of use cases is scheduled throughout the 2021-2027 period. The Province of Antwerp has been participating in CATE since 2022 as the first implementing partner. The scope of CATE is to completely rethink the audit process on a technological as well as a conceptual level, with the following objectives: increased assurance at a lower cost, within a shorter time frame, with greater added value and lower loss of (European) resources. The scope of the project is comprehensive as it changes the procedural stages, milestones, utilised data sources, algorithms, technologies and MA-AA’s input, in order to create an autonomous end-to-end platform. The CATE platform will be adopted more broadly within the Flanders region by ESF and ERDF programme authorities during the 2021-2027 period. This Interreg Europe project would be key for policy transfer at the international level (of the platform or its core principles)

Interreg Belgium-The Netherlands 2021-2027

No

Crossborder/Transnational

Partner

PP05 Province of Antwerp

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 63/111

1485/1500

D.5.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1350/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

0/1500

Interreg Belgium-The Netherlands can be situated as a policy instrument within EU cohesion policy, contributing to EU cohesion policy through European territorial cooperation (ETC). More precisely, this policy instrument supports cross-border cooperation in the Belgian-Dutch border area through ERDF funding (https://interregvlaned.eu/). As an Interreg-programme we operate in the same regulatory framework as the other partners (f.i. Regulation EU 2021/1060), despite some minor nuances or exemptions. Interreg BE-NL funds cross-border projects that contribute to the following EU priorities: - A smarter Europe: innovation and capacities for smart transformations (PO1) - A greener Europe: climate, environment and nature (PO2) - A more social Europe: inclusive labour market, training and sustainable tourism (PO4) - A Europe without borders: cooperation to overcome border obstacles (PO6) There are considerable synergies with ERDF programmes in both member states regarding these investment priorities. Our experience with the Interreg-specific priority (‘a Europe without borders’) further strengthens our claim of creating added value for the whole partnership. Interreg BE-NL manages more than 205 million euros in ERDF funding to invest in cross-border projects between 2021 and 2027. The cross-border character is essential for an Interreg project. Public authorities, private enterprises (especially SME’s), knowledge institutions as well as citizens can apply for funding.

Please select...

Yes

The management and control system (MCS) of Interreg BE-NL can be further improved by implementing AI and other advanced technologies in our administrative and management processes. We believe that advanced technologies provide operational tools to simplify our procedures and verifications, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in the Program management and to support decision-making process through predictive data analysis. We participate in the innovation project CATE, which stands for Continuous Auditing based on Techn(olog)ical Evolution and Data Mining. CATE is a nationally funded innovation project consisting of dozens of use cases, which together form an encompassing AI-platform. The AI-platform enables capacity-building within MAs, while enabling AAs to perform audits on a continuous basis and, hence, on a much shorter term. In order to fully reap the benefits of these advanced technologies, change management also looks beyond the technological aspect as it is necessary to reevaluate administrative and management processes, to train staff on how to effectively adopt these advanced technologies as well as to ensure conformity with international standards. Our participation in this Interreg Europe project would be instrumental to achieve these objectives through knowledge transfers with our peers in programme management

Please select...

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 64/111

D.5.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 5

Partner

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

953/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

964/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

903/1000

PP05 Province of Antwerp

The Province of Antwerp has a proven track-record for the proper and financially sound management of EU funds. Our experience as MA goes back to 2000. We fully committed and certified our programme budget for the 2014-2020 period with an average materiality level or total error rate per accounting year of 0.60%. Hence, we are well-placed to evaluate the pros and cons of changes within our management and control system. More generally, we can benefit from experience in our larger organization based on previous participations in EU funded projects within the framework of Horizon, LIFE+, EFRD Flanders, Interreg BE-NL, Interreg NWE as well as Interreg Europe. Flanders Audit Authority has ample experience in auditing EU funds (e.g. Interreg, ERDF, ESF, AMIF). The CATE project started in 2022 and the AA-MA have been collaborating on the development and implementation of AI and other advanced technologies within the management and control system.

The MA and AA would benefit from knowledge transfers taking place in this Interreg Europe-project in two ways: 1) Share and transfer of their expertise and lessons learned from CATE to the other partners with a focus on use cases (e.g. automated verification of invoices, payslips, etc. and on automated risk estimation, etc.) relevant for all managing authorities. Quality review processes are re-designed to take these changes into account. 2) Learning about AI-applications of the other partners – especially in management processes that are - so far - less covered in CATE. This might include advisory services towards customers via chatbots, more data-driven project selection, etc. The participation through knowledge transfers with peers in programme management would be instrumental to further simplify of procedures and verifications, to enhance accountability of fund management and to support decision-making through the use of predictive data analysis.

The Province of Antwerp is a large public organization with more than 80 different departments and institutions and with more than 1.500 employees. For this Interreg Europe call, other business units within the Province of Antwerp will be involved in 4 distinct applications each with unique objectives, priorities and staff involved. Two applications as a project partner: SDGs GO; FABCOM Two applications as an Associated Policy Authority: CApABLE; Women on Board. The best practices and experiences exchanged during this project are carefully dealt with to avoid overlap. However, there is always a possibility that some aspects may share similarities. To mitigate this risk, robust communication channels and collaboration frameworks are established among staff involved in these projects to ensure that funding is allocated effectively and does not inadvertently benefit duplicate goals or projects

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 65/111

D.5.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 5 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 5 entries.

73/300

130/300

46/300

16/300

79/300

Department of Work, Economy, Science, Innovation & Social Economy - WEWIS

APB Provinciaal Secretariaat Europese Structuurfondsen is designated as the Joint Secretariat for Interreg Belgium-The Netherlands

Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship - VLAIO

Deloitte Belgium

Flanders Audit Authority (audit authority for Interreg Belgium-The Netherlands)

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 66/111

D.5.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 67/111

D.6 Policy instrument 6

D.6.1 Territorial context and general description

D.6.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1483/1500

D.6.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

34/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

Government of Catalonia has been assigned to act as the Intermediate body (IB) of ERDF Regional Program 2021-2027, carrying out a number of tasks under Managing Authority’s responsibility. These tasks are described in Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of 24 June 2021, and include the management verifications, which are among the most important functions assigned to the Government of Catalonia. Unit control is in charge of such verifications, which are very time consuming and entail operational time in non-value added tasks, such as verification of paper work (checking audit trail with invoice, proof of payment…). As a result, IB needs significant administrative capacity to perform these tasks. IA should be explored as an integrate tool to reduce errors, to standardize procedures and reduce operational time. The procedure to determinate financial corrections to be made on expenditure financed by the Union under shared management in case of non-compliance with the applicable rules on public procurement, could also be improved through the use of an IA tool. Significant time is being dedicated to check public procurement certifications in order to categorize the financial correction for each irregularity. In this sense, IA could help reduce this checking process. The main goal linked with the participation in the Interreg project is to enhance procedural efficiencies in order to comply with relevant legal framework and to reduce the delay in the management of ERDF funds

Programme Catalonia ERDF 2021-2027

Yes

Regional

Partner

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 68/111

1011/1500

D.6.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1090/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

0/1500

Catalonia ERDF Program 2021-2027 have a total investment of 2,1 billion euros (840.5 million 40% of ERDF contribution +1,260 billion euros Catalonia co-funding). The outstanding challenges set and the proposed investments are based on a preliminary diagnosis and a review of regional strategies to be implemented in the near future, in order to align regional and European resources. Resulting from this process 4 challenges have been set for this period:

Challenge 1: Ecosystem of knowledge and sustainable economic growth Challenge 2: Clean energy and sustainable and inclusive communities Challenge 3: Resilient ecosystems Challenge 4: Modern administration close to citizens

In order to effectively address the development of these challenges, one of the most important goals is to reorganise internal management procedures, in order to reduce time consuming tasks and the administrative burden for beneficiaries and to focus on impact results instead of concentrating on expenditure verifications.

Please select...

Yes

Simplification procedures are required in the performance of European cohesion policy, and AI can contribute to this goal, improving procedures envisaged in the program management and verifications tasks. AI will be used, to tackle the following issues: • Improve the quality of support services provided to beneficiaries and simplify their administrative procedures and reduce their burden. • Reframe procedures to increase productivity by reducing process time and costs. • Introduce big data systems to optimize the decision-making policy. • Overlapping procedures should be identified in order to introduce automation mechanisms. This target should mainly address expenditure procedures and public procurement verifications, where the majority of controls are paper-based. • Innovate and create new opportunities to focus staff working activities on more value-added tasks, based on impact results of cohesion policy. There is an urgent need to reframe procedures; to introduce digital transformation processes and to improve the effectiveness of European funds deploying procedures.

Please select...

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 69/111

D.6.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 6

Partner

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

678/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

931/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

2/1000

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

MA (national authority) established the operational framework for the governance of autonomous regions’ regional programmes. Besides the initial oversight with the MA at the inception of the framework, full autonomous authority has been delegated to these regions (IB). Generalitat de Catalunya is the IB in charge of developing the regional ERDF program. The Regional Government, with the Department of Economy and Finance acting as IB is responsible for the maintenance of the ERDF information system, and for designing the procedures to deploy the EU funds. These competences are regulated by DECREE 58/2022, of 29 March, restructuring the Department of Economy and Finance.

Generalitat of Catalonia has been IB of the ERDF programs since 1995, so it can share and exchange extensive experience and knowledge with other partners. In addition, an IA pilot project to reduce paper work verifications has been completed at the regional level. Generalitat of Catalonia can offer findings based on this project, highlighting the main upsides and drawbacks. Therefore, this Interreg project, benefitting from the previous pilot project, could help us to explore new fields. This collaborative approach with other IBs and MAs at the regional and national levels will contribute to:

identify common procedures that could be administered by AI Identify procedures which should be revised/redesigned with enhanced effectiveness Foster efficient management within the EU Funds ecosystem. Create innovative digital transformation in cohesion policy procedures Share best practices with other member states.

no

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 70/111

D.6.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 6 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 5 entries.

82/300

79/300

75/300

32/300

81/300

Economic and social partners of Monitoring Committee of the Catalonia ERDF Program

Local authorities members of Monitoring Committee of the Catalonia ERDF Program

Employment Service of Catalonia (Servei Català d'Ocupació for Public - SOC)

Audit authority (regional level)

Regional Agency SMEs aids for Catalan Agency for Business Competitiveness (ACCIÓ)

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 71/111

D.6.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 72/111

D.7 Policy instrument 7

D.7.1 Territorial context and general description

D.7.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1497/1500

D.7.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

73/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

The current state of play and challenges in Hungary regarding the project’s topic are: - Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity: As of 2024, the internet penetration rate in Hungary is estimated to be 88.07. Despite this positive trend, there are still disparities in digital infrastructure, particularly between urban and rural areas. - Effective data integration and management remain challenges, especially in public administration. The need for streamlined and interoperable data systems is critical for improving the effectiveness and transparency of EU-funded programmes. - The adoption of digital technologies in businesses is growing but still faces barriers. Digital literacy and the readiness of SMEs to adopt these technologies vary significantly - Existing formal procedures for data management are often complex and cumbersome. Simplifying these procedures is essential to reduce administrative burdens and accelerate project implementation. - Transparency and Accountability: There is a need for more transparent and user-friendly data presentation to enhance accountability and public trust in EU-funded initiatives Challenges to Overcome: enhancing data collection and integration, simplifying procedures, building predictive analytics capabilities, improving transparency and public accountability. Providing comprehensive training and capacity-building initiatives for public administrators and other stakeholders to improve data literacy and the effective use of data analytics

Economic Development and Innovation Operational Program Plus (EDIOP PLUS)

Yes

National

Associated Policy Authority

National Development Centre

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 73/111

1493/1500

D.7.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1173/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

EDIOP Plus supports the digitalisation of public processes through targeted specific objectives: 1) Strengthening ICT Connectivity and Services: promotes regional ICT connectivity, focusing on less-developed regions to bridge digital disparities. To foster a competitive and smarter EU by encouraging smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity (RSO1.1) 2) Digital Skills Development: emphasises lifelong learning and ICT training for workers. The development of skills related to smart specialisation and industrial transformation (RSO1.4) is specifically highlighted. 3) Support for SMEs: SMEs are supported in adopting digital technologies, including Industry 4.0. Aim to facilitate technological changes and digitalisation in businesses, particularly in economically disadvantaged regions. It effects back to public services. 4) Modernizing Public Administration: Efforts to reduce admin. burdens include developing professional support systems, creating common customer pathways to enhance public process efficiency 5) Education and Training: Investing in resilient remote and online education infrastructures to support lifelong learning and vocational education. Contributing to the goal of improving access to inclusive and quality services in education and training (RSO4.2) Measures aim to improve the digitalization of public processes, economic competitiveness, and foster a more inclusive society, addressing territorial disparities and supporting regional growth.

Please select...

Yes

EDIOP PLUS plays a crucial role in Hungary’s economic transformation, particularly in strengthening digital public services, supporting SME innovation, and enhancing data-driven governance. SHARPEI project will contribute to the improvement of EDIOP PLUS by integrating AI-driven decision-making tools and data-based monitoring frameworks, ensuring greater transparency, efficiency, and accountability in PA. In particular, in the following fields: SME digitalization and support: best practices adopted by other PPs programmes will be transferred to improve SME digitalization measures in Hungary, ensuring alignment with the most advanced EU regions. Exploiting cross-sectoral policy synergies and facilitating knowledge transfer: policy learning exchanges between HU authorities and project PPs will ensure to test/implement some of the best practices in the management of the EDIOP PLUS programme. Enhanced monitoring and evaluation system: based on interregional knowledge exchange, PBN will provide recommendations to the National Development Centre on how to revise the EDIOP PLUS monitoring/evaluation of projects’ results funded by the programme will be revised.

Please select...

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 74/111

0/1500

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 75/111

D.7.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 7

Partner

What is the policy relevance of this partner (the link to the authority responsible for the policy instrument addressed and its capacity to influence this instrument)?

999/1000

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

995/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

970/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

521/1000

PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

PBN has a strong influence on EDIOP PLUS through its long-term collaboration with the Ministry of Public Adm. and Spatial Dev.. Examples of this long-lasting partnership include: 1. 20-Year Partnership on Policy Development: PBN has been collaborating with the Ministry for nearly 2 decades, actively shaping policies with national economic goals, influencing various OPs thus contributing to regional economic development and innovation. 2. Joint involvement with APA in key EU projects:1) UpGradeSME: to enhance SME internationalization and propose improvements for EDIOP 1.3.1;2) FOUNDATION: to build regional resilience to industrial changes, further shaping EDIOP PLUS policies;3) NOTRE project: PBN and APA work together to engage Hungarian stakeholders in development strategies. 3. Knowledge transfer: PBN leverages its collaboration with leading EU institutions/research centres in regional development programs to facilitate knowledge transfer and improve the implementation of EDIOP PLUS.

PBN is a regional development non-profit organization, focusing on company competitiveness development, and particularly on digitalization. It was established in 2006, starting with connecting local businesses and public sector with international players. To date over 75 European research and partnership projects with more than 450 EU partners. PBN established EIT Manufacturing Hub for Hungary, becoming part of the EIT Family. PBN is the catalysator of the Szombathely2030 Programme, by preparing, implementing most of the projects approved. PBN established its digital innovation hub in 2017, called am-LAB, with infrastructure and human resources in robotics, data science, extended reality and 3Dtechnologies. Am-LAB DIH is a tech-transfer spin-off company of PBN. PBN has over a decade of experience in business development, with focus on competitiveness. PBN managed High-Growth-Company development of the manufacturing sector, reaching 300 SMEs in mechatronics, wood and food sectors.

PBN and its stakeholders will benefit from offering new and improved Policy Instruments. During the exchange of experiences PBN will learn from regions having the same goal but being on different level of economic policy solutions. International good practices will contribute to better realization of the strategic planning related to digital transformation and better coordination of the national, international funds. The series of good practices will help to improve the quality of regional development strategies and allow policy-makers to have access to partners’ experiences to enhance competitiveness, resilience and sustainability. The project and the shared knowledge will contribute to the region economic development. PBN can collect significant knowledge to successfully operate its test environment called "am-LAB". The knowledge on partnership level will boost the possibilities in the topics of training, awareness raising and daily operation of the Lab.

Pannon Business Network Association is currently participating in several Interreg Europe projects funded under the 1st round of programme call. These projects will be phasing out as of 2025. Our experiences, also from the last financing period, our future estimations and our expertise validated by the Interreg Europe JS prove that PBN has all the necessary human resources and technical skills to implement projects simultaneously and this capacity can be extended flexibly as a response to increasing project workload

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 76/111

D.7.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 7 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 11 entries.

42/300

22/300

15/300

26/300

42/300

32/300

21/300

27/300

27/300

33/300

57/300

Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH)

Hungarian AI Coalition

AI EDIH Hungary

ICT Association of Hungary

Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Hungarian Innovation Association

National 5G Coalition

National Development Centre

Municipality of Szombathely

Enterprise Europe Network Hungary

Ministry of Public Administration and Spatial Development

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 77/111

D.7.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 78/111

D.8 Policy instrument 8

D.8.1 Territorial context and general description

D.8.1.1 Territorial context

What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory.

1493/1500

D.8.1.2 General description of the policy instrument

Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned).

45/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)?

Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument

Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument.

Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

The MA currently does not use AI tools for automated control systems, categorization, or data analysis to support control traces or decision-making. Preparing support measures, such as creating simplified cost models, is burdensome and time consuming. The complexity and time commitment required for data analysis result in low interest in introducing simplified reimbursement methods, leading to untapped potential for reducing bureaucracy and streamlining processes for beneficiaries. Moreover, the abundance of guidelines and rules makes it difficult for beneficiaries to understand necessary information. There is a significant need to streamline work processes to facilitate faster allocation of EU financial resources to various economic sectors. The field of AI has experienced rapid development, raising expectations for innovation, speed, and user-friendliness in public sector services. These expectations extend to the MA's implementation of the Cohesion Policy operational program, aiming to enhance data-driven management and simplify processes for both implementers and beneficiaries through AI adoption. This Interreg project focus aligns with the "White Paper on Data and Artificial Intelligence," the "Estonian Digital Society 2030" and the "Research, Development, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship 2021–2035" development plans. Additionally, the outcomes and experience exchange from project will contribute to the objectives of the AI Action Plan 2024–2026 adopted in Estonia

Programme for Cohesion Policy Funds 2021-2027

Yes

National

Partner

PP08 State Shared Service Centre

Estonia will receive €3.37 billion in support from the EU for the operational program for the Cohesion Policy funds and the JTF for the 2021-2027 period. There are six main objectives defined in the operational program based on the long-term strategy "Estonia 2035": Smarter Estonia, Greener Estonia, More Connected Estonia, More Social Estonia, Closer to People Estonia, and Fair Transition. The program involves ERDF, CF, ESF+, JTF. The implementation of the Cohesion Policy program involves a complex legal framework, with requirements set out in various levels of legal acts and guidelines, so it’s necessary for both grant recipients and administrative staff to have thorough knowledge of the rules. In Estonia, there is a unique management and control system for the operational program, making it technically easier to manage changes and ensuring that procedural changes affect all Cohesion Policy funds. The effectiveness of using EU financial resources depends on the substantive and legal preparation of support measures, the quality of project implementation, proactive results management, and communication. As a small member state, it is necessary to make sure that the financial resources are effectively spent and that civil service enhance its capacity and become more efficient in the long term

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 79/111

1311/1500

D.8.1.3 Expected policy improvement

What type of improvement do you envisage for this instrument?

New projects financed by the instrument

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument

1498/1500

Revision of the instrument itself

0/1500

Please select...

Yes

With expanding capabilities of AI, the MA sees potential in simplifying compliance assessment, broadening the cross-use of existing data, and discovering opportunities to move further towards risk-based supervision using data. Role of the MA is to ensure an effective management and control system in Estonia, the adoption of innovative solutions exchanged and analysed in this project could be extended to implementing agencies and bodies as well. The MA sees an opportunity that, by building and evaluating prototypes for AI adoption during this financing period, they will be further and more target-led developed in the 2028+ period, where there will be fewer financial resources but more data-driven simplifications and results-based approaches. At the beginning of 2024, the SSSC, in collaboration with private sector AI mentors, briefly analysed opportunities to streamline work procedures and the potential role of AI in the process. The mentors have recommended that the SSSC should invest in data organization and quality improvement, prepare test datasets, analyse various possibilities in workshops, and test the corresponding prototypes and feasibility studies with selected methodologies. There is great potential to simplify management and control systems using AI-based virtual assistants, AI-supported data synthesis and evaluation, and, where possible, conducting control activities. Reducing any kind of bureaucracy will also improve the overall reputation of EU support measures

Please select...

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 80/111

D.8.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 8

Partner

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project?

929/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here.

885/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement.

2/1000

PP08 State Shared Service Centre

The MA continuously analyses and improves the efficiency of management and control systems. At the beginning of 2024, SSSC organized a mentoring project with private sector AI mentors to identify initial activities in work processes that could be streamlined with AI-based applications and to gain a general awareness of the potential and risks of various AI technologies. An AI task force has been established within the organization to share current developments regarding AI potential. To visualize data and ensure compliance with performance indicators, SSSC has implemented PowerBI software, accessible throughout the administration. Systematic development of performance management significantly supports the goal of this project to use collected data as knowledgeably and intelligently as possible. Moreover, the SSSC can share experiences with other project partners regarding the implementation of visualization software

The MA can share experiences and examples with other MAs on automating control processes and integrating AI to simplify procedures for both beneficiaries and implementers. The SSSC sees potential in using AI, for example, in evaluating data required for simplified cost reimbursement methods. The EU Cohesion Policy aims to increase simplifications, supported by smarter data utilization and automatization, which is the one aim of this project. The second focus area is exchanging know-how on implementing chatbot solutions for beneficiaries and for the administration (e.g., the one used in Portugal). The project provides a comprehensive international networking platform focused on AI within the regions. Additionally, expected benefits include improving communication activities, presenting results to the public in an attractive format, and enhancing the visibility of EU support

no

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 81/111

D.8.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 8 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries.

You have 5 entries.

39/300

31/300

19/300

17/300

39/300

Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs

Environmental Investment Centre

Ministry of Finance

Government Office

Estonian Business and Innovation Agency

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 82/111

D.8.4 Pilot action under policy instrument

Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument?

E.1 Core phase (Exchange of experience)

No

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 83/111

Semester 1 (Core phase)

Exchange of experience

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 84/111

2962/3000

Communication

May - October 2025 KOM: June 2025, Bologna

STEP 1: Framework setting

At the beginning of the first semester, all the partners convene for the KOM in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna. This will be the occasion to kick off the project's planned activities and to take the first step regarding the framework setting.

The presentation and sharing of detailed work programme among partners are the core of KOM. This program is detailed in activities and deadlines and includes the SHARPEI Operational Methodology.

The four main components of the exchange of experience will be outlined:

A. The 3-Paths SHARPEI Survey

B. Thematic wokshops

C. Staff exchange

D. Good Practices and study visits

A. During the KOM, the LP will present a preliminary draft of the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey structure. The survey should include:

1) An analysis of the current state of AI integration and intelligent data use in the partners' policy instruments, in relation to the topics outlined in the 3 PATHS and Backbone. Both partners with previous experience in using such technologies and those without will be invited to:

I) Produce an analysis of the tools they would like to integrate into their policy instruments

II) Base their analysis on successful experiences in other partner Regions

2) A review of market-ready technologies with potential for integration into policy Instrument management

3) A survey of cutting-edge technologies in the field of PI management

4) A proposal for a “wait calculation methodology”

Discussions will commence to define a common methodological pool for the subsequent analysis phase. These discussions will continue in following online meetings. The goal for the semester is to develop and share a common format for the surveys, which will then be completed by each partner in the following semester.

B. The Thematic Workshops are introduced. Sessions will be held from the end of semester 2 to semester 4. These sessions will take place during partner meetings and through online workshops.

C. The LP presents the concept of staff exchange, which will be implemented in semesters 5 and 6, depending on the needs arisen during the Thematic Workshops and on the findings of the 3-PATHS Survey. The number of staff exchanges may vary depending on the partners' interest in deepening their knowledge of each of the three paths.

D. In alignment with the 3-Paths SHARPEI survey, the Lead Partner presents the expectations for the Good Practice collection procedure.

Furthermore, in the first semester, all partners will convene their LSG (Local Stakeholder Group). The first LSG meeting will be held after the KOM to share the project's achievements and collect stakeholders' expectations for AI integration in Policy Instrument management.

Throughout the core phase, partners will compile the results of all activities into individual so-called Regional Blueprints, which will contribute to the Joint Interregional Report.

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 85/111

993/1000

Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

N° of good practices identified

During the KoM, PP7, who handles communication activities, will present the Communication Strategy.

Planned Activities: Press Release and Article for KOM: Highlight ER policy and study tour. LCEs: Organized in each region with follow-up press releases and articles. LSG Events: Articles about events for the homepage. Social Media Updates: Regular updates by the Communication Manager. SHARPEI Newsletter: Distributed alongside partners’ newsletters. Presentation of the project to the Forum for Managing Authorities (MA) on Building Administrative Capacity 2021-2027 and to other existing Community of Practices established by DG REGIO Participation to events and activities organised at INTERREG EUROPE PROGRAMME level (e.g. Policy Learning Platform activities; Annual programme events; etc.)

Expected Results: Press Release and Article: Announce KOM. 8 Press Releases and 8 Articles: About LCEs. 8 Articles: About LSG meetings. 1 Newsletter + Partners’ Newsletters. 8 LCEs

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

0

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 86/111

Semester 2 (Core phase)

Exchange of experience

2997/3000

Communication

November 2025 - April 2026 Second Meeting: November 2025, Våsterbotten

STEP 2: Context assessment In the second semester the activities will be focused on the context assessment step.

November 2025 - January 2026 1. Implementation of the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey - All partners will focus on completing the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey during the beginning of the second semester. - This survey aims to identify the current state of AI integration and the intelligent use of data within the partners' policy instruments, as well as to highlight market-ready technologies and cutting-edge solutions for policy management.

November 2025 2. Second In-Person Meeting in Våsterbotten - Presentation of Survey Results: The results of the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey will be presented. These results are expected to identify an initial set of best practices, as well as future developments that each partner intends to achieve. - First Study Visit: Organized during the in-person session to provide practical insights and real-world examples of best practices. - Introduction of the Thematic Workshops: The Lead Partner (LP) will introduce the Thematic Workshops, which will be based on the themes underlying the three PATHS and the backbone analysed in the survey. The thematic workshops will serve as in-depth sessions designed to enhance the understanding of cutting-edge technologies involved in the exchange of experiences. For each PATH, a PP responsible will be identified based on their strengths, best practices emerging from the survey, and their specific interest in developing their Regional Blueprint within a particular path. The Regional Blueprint is a document outlining the steps each project partner follows to introduce improvements in the management of their policy instrument. It aligns with one or more of the project's thematic Paths or the Backbone. This document serves as a structured roadmap, ensuring a coherent and effective approach to policy enhancement across participating regions. - As a result, the second In-Person Meeting is expected to give the final tuning to the contents of the thematic workshops, based on the evidence of the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey.

March - April 2026 3. Online workshop Kick-off - The Thematic Workshops will begin online, guided by the PPs responsible for each PATH. These sessions will provide project partners with essential insights into innovative tools and methodologies applicable to policy instrument management. By focusing on theoretical advancements and technological trends, the workshops will support partners in identifying advanced solutions that can effectively contribute to policy improvements

4.Local Stakeholder Group (LSG) Meetings - Each partner will organize a meeting with their Local Stakeholder Group (LSG) to present the progress made during the second semester. - These meetings will also serve to gather stakeholders' feedback and expectations regarding the integration of AI into policy instrument management.

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 87/111

877/1000

Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

N° of good practices identified

Planned Activities: - Publish Outcomes of second In-person Meeting: Article on Våsterbotten policy instrument, study tour details, good practices and the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey - Local Stakeholder Event Reporting: Each partner to write a short article for the project homepage and their media channels (8 articles total). - Social Media Updates: Communication Manager to link updates to news on the project homepage. - SHARPEI Newsletter: Sent to the mailing list and distributed in partners' newsletters. - Participation to events and activities organised at INTERREG EUROPE PROGRAMME level - Production of a short video presenting the project at its inception.

Expected Results: - 1 Article: About the second SG meeting. - Article: About Good Practices and the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey - 1 SHARPEI Newsletter + Partners’ Newsletters. - 8 Articles: About LSG meetings.

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

8

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 88/111

Semester 3 (Core phase)

Exchange of experience

2863/3000

Communication

May-October 2026 Third Meeting: June 2026, Lisbon

STEP 3: Interregional Learning and Good Practices Exchange In the third semester the third step will be implemented, focusing on the interregional learning and good practices exchange

May - June 2026 1. Thematic workshops sessions will continue online, focusing on the themes of the three PATHS identified in the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey. 2. Third In-person Meeting in Lisbon - Presentation of Staff Exchange Methodology: The Lead Partner (LP) will introduce the methodology for the Staff Exchange program, detailing the minimum requirements for participants and host partners. i) Participant Requirements: Participants should have a relevant background in AI integration, data management, or policy implementation, and demonstrate a strong interest in learning from other regions' best practices. ii) Host Partner Requirements: Host partners should have been identified in the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey as having significant good practices. They must be able to offer a supportive learning environment and relevant experiences for visiting staff. - Second Study Visit: This visit will offer practical insights into successful implementations and innovations in AI and data integration. - First In-person Workshop: In-person workshops will be conducted, focusing on each of the three PATHS and on the backbone of the project. The workshops will be led by responsible partners and may include external technical assistance to ensure comprehensive skill development. Sessions will feature case studies and talks by industry experts related to each PATH.

July - August 2026 3. Staff Exchange Applications - Collection of Applications: Interested regions will submit applications for both personnel wishing to participate in exchanges and regions willing to host. - Review and Selection: Applications will be evaluated based on alignment with project objectives and the outcomes of the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey. Priority will be given to regions with identified good practices.

September - October 2026 4. Initiation of Staff Exchanges - First Staff Exchanges: Initial staff exchanges will be organized, facilitating the transfer of knowledge and best practices among partners. These exchanges are crucial for building capacity and fostering innovation. - Ongoing Workshop Sessions: Online workshops will continue, guided by the partners responsible and supported by external experts. Workshops will include case studies and expert talks to enrich the learning experience.

5. Local Stakeholder Group (LSG) Meetings - Third Stakeholder Meeting: Partners will organize meetings with their Local Stakeholder Groups to provide updates on the Staff Exchange program and gather feedback on progress. These meetings will ensure that stakeholders remain informed and engaged in the project's development.

- Articles on workshops, summarizing the thematic workshops sessions focused on the three PATHS. - Report on Lisbon Meeting, detailing the third in-person meeting, the Staff Exchange methodology, the second study visit, and the first in-person workshop session. - Promotion of Staff Exchange Program - Articles on Staff Exchange Experiences: Each participating partner writes an article on their staff exchange experiences. - Reports on LSG Meetings summarizing updates and feedback. Publish these on the project homepage and partners' media channels (8 articles total). - Social Media Updates - SHARPEI Newsletter: Distribute the SHARPEI newsletter summarizing the semester’s activities, including workshop outcomes, the Lisbon meeting, and staff exchanges. - Participation to events and activities organised at INTERREG EUROPE PROGRAMME level

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 89/111

851/1000

Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

N° of good practices identified

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

0

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 90/111

Semester 4 (Core phase)

Exchange of experience

2755/3000

Communication

November 2026 - April 2027 Fourth Meeting: December 2026, Normandy

STEP 3: Interregional Learning and Good Practices Exchange In the fourth semester the implementation of STEP 3 will continue

November 2026 - January 2027 1. Continued Staff Exchanges - Ongoing staff exchanges will facilitate the transfer of knowledge and best practices among partners. Participants will continue to visit host partners identified in the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey, focusing on regions with notable good practices. 2. Thematic online workshop sessions will continue, focusing on the three PATHS identified in the project. These sessions will be guided by responsible partners and supported by external experts, ensuring comprehensive and up-to-date contents. 3. Updating the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey - Partners will work on updating the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey to reflect the latest advancements in market-ready and cutting-edge technologies. Given the rapid evolution in the field, an increase in available tools for policy instrument management is expected, along with a shift of cutting-edge technologies to market-ready status. - The update will also include a review of potential cost reductions and updated results from the wait calculation methodology application.

December 2026 4. Internal mid-term In-person Meeting in Normandy - Study Visit: Conducted during the meeting to provide practical insights into the successful implementation of AI and data integration. - In-person workshop Session: In-person workshop covering the three PATHS, facilitated by responsible partners and possibly supported by external experts. This session aims to deepen the understanding of key concepts. - Presentation of Updated 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey: The Lead Partner (LP) will present the updated survey results, highlighting technological advancements and their implications for policy instruments management, as well as emerging good practices. - First Review of Staff Exchange: An initial review of the staff exchange program will be presented, discussing the experiences and outcomes of the exchanges conducted so far. - Internal Mid-term Review of Thematic Workshops: A review of the thematic workshops will be presented, evaluating its effectiveness and gathering feedback for improvement. - Review of Regional Blueprints: Each partner will review their Regional Blueprint, assessing progress and identifying areas for further development and improvement.

June - April 2027 5. Local Stakeholder Group (LSG) Meetings - Each partner will organize a meeting with its own Local Stakeholders Group to provide updates on the project activities and progress. These meetings will also collect stakeholders' feedback for the mid- term review of the thematic workshops.

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 91/111

932/1000

Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

N° of good practices identified

Publication of Internal Mid-Term Meeting Outcomes: - Articles on Study Visit and workshop Session: Publish articles summarizing the study visit and in-person workshop session held during the mid-term meeting. - Report on Mid-Term Meeting: Write an article detailing the meeting, including the presentation of the updated 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey and the review of the staff exchange program.

Promotion of Updated Survey Results: - Article on Updated 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey

Local Stakeholder Engagement: - Reports on LSG Meetings, summarizing project updates and stakeholder feedback, published on the project homepage and partners' media channels (8 articles total)

Ongoing Comm - Social Media Updates - SHARPEI Newsletter, summarizing the semester’s activities, including outcomes of the mid-term meeting, study visit, and workshop sessions. - Participation to events and activities organised at INTERREG EUROPE PROGRAMME level

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

8

v4 | Approved

06/03/25, 16:07 Portal Interreg Europe

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/2085/print-view 92/111

Semester 5 (Core phase)

Exchange of experience

1923/3000

Communication

865/1000

May - October 2027 Fifth Meeting: June 2027, Antwerp

Sem 5 will conclude the activities of STEP 3 and kick-off the activities of STEP 4 “Policy instrument improvement”

May - July 2027 1. Continued Staff Exchanges -Ongoing staff exchanges will continue, facilitating the transfer of knowledge and best practices among partners. Participants will keep visiting host partners, focusing on regions identified in the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey for their good practices. 2. Thematic online workshop sessions will continue, covering the three PATHS identified in the project. These sessions will be guided by responsible partners and supported by external experts.

June 2027 3. Fifth In-person Meeting in Antwerp -Study Visit: Conducted during the meeting to provide practical insights into successful AI and data integration implementations. -In-person Workshop Session: In-person workshops on the three PATHS, facilitated by responsible partners and potentially supported by external technical assistance, aiming to deepen the understanding of key concepts and technlogies. -Presentation of the second review of the staff exchange program, discussing the experiences and outcomes of the exchanges conducted so far. -Presentation of Mid-Term Review Results: The Lead Partner (LP) will present the results of the Mid-Term Review concluded with the Technical Secretariat in the previous semester, highlighting key findings and recommendations for the second half of the project.

April - June 2027 4. Local Stakeholder Group (LSG) Meetings -Each partner will organize a meeting with their Local Stakeholder Group to provide updates on the project activities and progress. These meetings will also collect stakeholder feedback for the ongoing reviews and the development of the playbook.

The presentation of the Mid-Term Review results will provide important insights and guide the project's trajectory for the remaining semesters.

Publication of Meeting Outcomes: - Articles on Study Visit and Workshop Session summarizing the study visit and workshop session held during the meeting in Antwerp. - Report on Antwerp Meeting, including the presentation of the 2nd review of the staff exchange program.

Promotion of Mid-Term Review Results: - Article on Mid-Term Review Findings summarizing the key findings and recommendations from the mid-term review concluded with the Technical Secretariat.

Local Stakeholder Engagement: - Reports on LSG Meetings, summarizing project updates, stakeholder feedback (8 articles total). - Participation to events and activities organised at INTERREG EUROPE PROGRAMME level

Ongoing Communication: - Social Media Updates - SHARPEI Newsletter, summarizing the semester’s activities, including outcomes of the Antwerp meeting and mid-term review findings.

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Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

N° of good practices identified

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

0

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Semester 6 (Core phase)

Exchange of experience

2733/3000

Communication

November 2027 - April 2028 Sixth meeting: December 2027, Barcelona

STEP 4: Policy instrument improvement In this semester all the activities regarding STEP 4 will come to an end.

November 2027 - January 2028 1. Finalization of Project Activities - Completion of Pending Tasks: Ensure the finalization of any remaining tasks related to the 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey, Thematic workshops, and Regional Blueprints. Documentation and Reporting: Ensure all documentation is comprehensive and up to date, including final reports, survey results, and materials. 2. Continued Staff Exchanges - Ongoing Exchanges: Continue the staff exchanges, allowing for the ongoing transfer of knowledge and best practices among partners.

December 2028 3. Sixth In-person Meeting in Barcelona - Study Visit: Conduct the study visit to provide practical insights into successful AI and data integration implementations. - In-person Workshop Session: Conduct the final in-person workshop session covering the three PATHS, facilitated by responsible partners and external experts if necessary. - Review and Finalization of Project Activities: Discuss and finalize all project activities, ensuring all goals and deliverables are met. Each partner will present their final contributions and achievements. - Presentation of Final Reports: The Lead Partner (LP) will present the final reports, including the updated 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey results, outcomes of the thematic workshops, and results of the staff exchange program.

March - April 2028 4. Local Stakeholder Group (LSG) Meetings - LSG Meetings: Each partner will organize a meeting with their Local Stakeholder Group to present the overall outcomes of the project. This includes results on the updated 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey, and the finalized playbook for Regional Cohesion Policy Programs. - Feedback Collection: Collect final feedback from stakeholders to incorporate into the project’s closing documentation. 5. Preparation for Project Conclusion - Final Compilation of Reports: Compile and finalize all reports, including the Joint Interregional Report and Regional Blueprints, ensuring they are comprehensive and detailed. - Dissemination of Outcomes: Plan for the dissemination of project outcomes and knowledge sharing beyond the core phase. This includes preparing presentations, publications, and other materials, such as videos. - Sustainability Planning: Develop a sustainability plan to ensure that the knowledge and practices developed during the project continue to be used and shared. - Final Staff Exchanges Preparation: Ensure that all partners are prepared for the final staff exchanges, which will conclude in the following semester, including finalizing logistics.

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992/1000

Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

N° of good practices identified

E.2 Follow-up phase

Publication of Project Finalization Activities: - Articles on Study Visit and Workshop Session - Report on Barcelona Meeting

Promotion of Final Reports and Outcomes: - an article summarizing the final reports, including the updated 3-PATHS SHARPEI Survey results, outcomes of the thematic workshops, and results of the staff exchange program. - Dissemination Plan outlining a plan for sharing the final outcomes - at least one video reporting the outcomes

Local Stakeholder Engagement: - Reports on Final LSG Meetings

Ongoing Communication: - Social Media Updates: Regular updates on the project’s social media pages with news and links to articles. - SHARPEI Newsletter summarizing the semester’s activities

Promotion of Final Event and Sustainability: - Sustainability Planning: Communicate the sustainability plan to ensure ongoing use and sharing of the project’s knowledge and practices. - Participation to events and activities organised at INTERREG EUROPE PROGRAMME level

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

0

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Semester 7 (Follow-up phase)

Monitoring results of main phase and, if applicable, exchange of experience

2478/3000

Communication

May - October 2028 In Semester 7, the focus shifts to monitoring the results of policy changes and implementations initiated during the main phase. Customized monitoring plans will be developed for each policy instrument, and partners will actively document and evaluate their progress.

Seventh meeting: June 2028, Hungary

June 2028 1. Online Steering Group Meeting: Objective: Agree on the work and time plan for monitoring with all partners. Agenda: - Overview of monitoring objectives. - Customization of monitoring plans for each policy instrument. - Discussion on documentation and support mechanisms. Outcome: Finalized monitoring plan tailored to each partner's needs, considering different levels of policy change and implementation.

May - October 2028 2. Implementation and Monitoring Customized Monitoring Plans: - Develop and distribute a monitoring plan for each policy instrument. - Include guidelines for documenting activities, progress, and outcomes.

Action Plan Implementation: - For partners where policy change was not achieved, focus on implementing the action plan. - Conduct further negotiations and monitor progress in the follow-up phase.

Local Stakeholder Events: - Each partner organizes one local stakeholder event to collaborate on implementation. - Document actions, new learnings, and policy improvements.

June 2028 3. Policy Change In-person Meeting, Hungary Objective: Provide support and share insights on policy implementations. Agenda - Review territorial effects of policy implementations. - Share best practices and challenges. - Discuss and support solutions for any difficulties encountered. Outcome: Collaborative solutions and support for ongoing policy implementation efforts. Expected Results: - Comprehensive Monitoring Plans: Each partner will have a tailored monitoring plan to guide their documentation and evaluation efforts. - Documented Actions and Outcomes: Detailed records of actions taken, progress made, and outcomes achieved. - Effective Stakeholder Collaboration: Engage local stakeholders in meaningful discussions and collaborations. - Shared Insights and Support: Facilitate knowledge exchange and mutual support through online meetings and continuous communication.

By the end of the seventh semester, partners will have a clear understanding of their progress, documented evidence of their activities, and a solid foundation for any necessary adjustments or follow-up actions.

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999/1000

Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

Monitoring Results Publication - Reports on Main Phase Outcomes: Publish detailed reports on the project's impact and effectiveness, shared on the project homepage and partner channels. Experience Exchange Articles - Articles by Participating Partners: Each partner involved in staff exchanges will write an article summarizing their experiences and lessons learned. Local Stakeholder Event Reporting - Articles for Project Homepage and Media Channels: Each partner will write a short article about their local stakeholder event, to be published on the project homepage and their own media channels (8 articles total). Social Media Updates - Regular Updates: The Communication Manager will update social media pages with news and links to the project homepage. Newsletter - Distribution to Mailing List: Summarize the semester’s activities and outcomes and distribute the newsletter to the mailing list and partners' newsletters. - Production of a video presenting the project's achievements

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

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Semester 8 (Follow-up phase)

Monitoring results of main phase and, if applicable, exchange of experience

2806/3000

Communication

November 2028 - April 2029 Final meeting: March 2029, Tallinn

November 2028 - April 2029

1. Ongoing Monitoring and Documentation a) Regular Contact with Managing Authorities: - Maintain consistent communication with local, national, and regional managing authorities. - Document all relevant improvements and updates in the customized Monitoring Plans. b) Action Plan Implementation: - Partners implementing an Action Plan will finalize their activities and continuously update the Lead Partner (LP) on their status. - Ensure thorough documentation of the implementation process and results.

2. Preparation for Final Dissemination Event a) Event Planning and Coordination: - Organize the final dissemination event scheduled for the end of 2028 in Tallinn, Estonia. - Plan a connected study visit to provide practical insights into successful implementations. b) Session Planning: - Dedicate a separate session to summarizing the project’s achievements and discussing any remaining questions or challenges. - Ensure participation from a wide, high-level stakeholder audience to maximize the impact of the dissemination efforts.

March 2029

3. Final Dissemination Event and Study Visit (Tallinn, Estonia) a) Two-Day Event: - Day 1: Disseminate the results of the project to a broader audience, highlighting key achievements and best practices. - Day 2: Conduct a study visit to showcase successful implementations and practical applications of the project's findings. b) Summarization and Discussion Session: - Summarize the overall achievements of the project. - Address any open questions and discuss future steps or potential follow-up actions. c) Documentation and Reporting: - Prepare and distribute a comprehensive report summarizing the outcomes of the event and the study visit. - Document feedback from stakeholders and incorporate it into the final project documentation.

Expected Results: - Detailed Monitoring Plans: Continuous updates and improvements documented for each policy instrument. - Finalized Action Plans: Complete implementation and documentation of Action Plans. - Successful Final Event: Effective dissemination of project results to a broad audience. - Comprehensive Summarization: Clear summary of achievements and discussions on future steps. - Final Reports: Comprehensive documentation of the project’s outcomes, including stakeholder feedback and future recommendations.

By the end of the eighth semester, partners will have thoroughly documented their monitoring activities, completed the implementation of action plans, and effectively disseminated the project's results. The final event in Tallinn will serve as a culmination of all efforts, ensuring that the knowledge and achievements of the project are shared widely and sustainably.

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824/1000

Management

N° of interregional policy learning events organised

- Publish detailed reports on the outcomes of the main phase, highlighting the impact and effectiveness of the strategies implemented. - Articles summarizing the staff exchange experiences and lessons learned for each PP involved, which will be shared on the project homepage and social media. - A final newsletter will be distributed to the mailing list, summarizing the semester’s activities and outcomes. This newsletter will also include articles from partners and will be shared through their newsletters. - Promote the final dissemination event and connected study visit in Tallinn, Estonia, via press releases, social media, and newsletters to ensure wide attendance and engagement from high-level stakeholders. - Event Promotion: Promote the final dissemination event and share key findings with a broad audience

Ongoing management activities to ensure smooth implementation and reporting of the project

1

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F Project budget

F.1 Budget breakdown per cost category and partner

Partner ⬆ Country Preparation

costs Staff costs Office and

administration Travel and

accommodation External expertise

and services Equipment Infratsructure and

works TOTAL

BUDGET

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Italy (Italia) 17,500.00 212,000.00 31,800.00 31,800.00 131,000.00 0.00 0.00 424,100.00

PP02 Region Västerbotten Sweden (Sverige) 0.00 147,030.00 22,054.00 22,054.00 83,200.00 0.00 0.00 274,338.00

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Portugal (Portugal) 0.00 76,926.00 11,538.00 11,538.00 85,000.00 0.00 0.00 185,002.00

PP04 Normandy Regional Council France (France) 0.00 136,800.00 20,520.00 20,520.00 58,664.00 0.00 0.00 236,504.00

PP05 Province of Antwerp Belgium (Belgique/België)

0.00 79,359.00 11,903.00 11,903.00 55,500.00 0.00 0.00 158,665.00

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Spain (España) 0.00 26,850.00 4,027.00 26,488.00 * 68,600.00 0.00 0.00 125,965.00

PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

Hungary (Magyarország)

0.00 144,000.00 21,600.00 21,600.00 25,200.00 800.00 0.00 213,200.00

PP08 State Shared Service Centre Estonia (Eesti) 0.00 145,152.00 21,772.00 21,772.00 50,000.00 0.00 0.00 238,696.00

Total 17,500.00 968,117.00 145,214.00 167,675.00 557,164.00 800.00 0.00 1,856,470.00

% of Total budget 0.9% 52.1% 7.8% 9.0% 30.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0%

* Real cost, no flatrate

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F.2 External expertise and services

Item ⬆ Description Contracting partner Type of costs TOTAL

1 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Exchange of experience – meetings 10,000.00

2 Technical support in identifying good practices, organizing thematic workshops and local stakeholder group meetings and embedding good practices for policy instrument improvement

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Exchange of experience – external support

50,000.00

3 regional and interregional dissemination events LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Communication – events 2,000.00

4 Printing of 1 A3 poster, 1 pop-up stands to be used for local dissemination during events and workshops, printing of 2 brochure

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Communication – material 2,000.00

5 LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Management – external support 50,000.00

6 LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Management – expenditure control 7,000.00

7 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings PP02 Region Västerbotten Exchange of experience – meetings 8,400.00

8 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders PP02 Region Västerbotten Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

12,000.00

9 Technical support in identifying good practices, organizing thematic workshops and local stakeholder group meetings and embedding good practices for policy instrument improvement and external support for RMSG

PP02 Region Västerbotten Exchange of experience – external support

10,400.00

10 regional and interregional dissemination events PP02 Region Västerbotten Communication – events 1,000.00

11 Printing of 1 A3 poster, 1 pop-up stands to be used for local dissemination during events and workshops, printing of 2 brochure

PP02 Region Västerbotten Communication – material 1,000.00

12 PP02 Region Västerbotten Management – external support 50,400.00

13 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Exchange of experience – meetings 10,000.00

14 Technical support in identifying good practices, organizing thematic workshops and local stakeholder group meetings and embedding good practices for policy instrument improvement

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Exchange of experience – external support

45,000.00

15 regional and interregional dissemination events PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Communication – events 1,000.00

TOTAL 557,164.00

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Item ⬆ Description Contracting partner Type of costs TOTAL

16 Printing of 1 A3 poster, 1 pop-up stands to be used for local dissemination during events and workshops, printing of 2 brochure

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Communication – material 1,000.00

17 PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Management – external support 13,000.00

18 PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Management – expenditure control 10,000.00

19 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings PP04 Normandy Regional Council Exchange of experience – meetings 10,000.00

20 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders PP04 Normandy Regional Council Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

5,000.00

21 Technical support in identifying good practices, organizing thematic workshops and local stakeholder group meetings and embedding good practices for policy instrument improvement

PP04 Normandy Regional Council Exchange of experience – external support

35,000.00

22 regional and interregional dissemination events PP04 Normandy Regional Council Communication – events 2,000.00

23 Printing of 1 A3 poster, 1 pop-up stands to be used for local dissemination during events and workshops, printing of 2 brochure

PP04 Normandy Regional Council Communication – material 1,000.00

24 PP04 Normandy Regional Council Management – expenditure control 5,664.00

25 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings PP05 Province of Antwerp Exchange of experience – meetings 8,000.00

26 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders PP05 Province of Antwerp Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

24,000.00

27 Technical support in identifying good practices, organizing thematic workshops and local stakeholder group meetings and embedding good practices for policy instrument improvement

PP05 Province of Antwerp Exchange of experience – external support

5,000.00

28 regional and interregional dissemination events PP05 Province of Antwerp Communication – events 2,000.00

29 Printing of 1 A3 poster, 1 pop-up stands to be used for local dissemination during events and workshops, printing of 2 brochure

PP05 Province of Antwerp Communication – material 1,500.00

30 PP05 Province of Antwerp Management – expenditure control 15,000.00

31 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Exchange of experience – meetings 15,000.00

TOTAL 557,164.00

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Item ⬆ Description Contracting partner Type of costs TOTAL

32 Technical support in identifying good practices, organizing thematic workshops and local stakeholder group meetings and embedding good practices for policy instrument improvement

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Exchange of experience – external support

25,000.00

33 regional and interregional dissemination events PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Communication – events 2,000.00

34 Printing of 1 A3 poster, 1 pop-up stands to be used for local dissemination during events and workshops, printing of 2 brochure

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Communication – material 2,000.00

35 PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Management – expenditure control 9,600.00

36 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

Exchange of experience – meetings 5,000.00

37 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

11,200.00

38 regional and interregional dissemination events PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

Communication – events 2,000.00

39 External expert for the design and production of project communication materials ( 1 A3 poster, 1 pop- up stands, 2 brochures, 2 projects'videos)

PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

Communication – material 7,000.00

40 interregional partner meetings, regional stakeholder group meetings PP08 State Shared Service Centre Exchange of experience – meetings 16,000.00

41 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders PP08 State Shared Service Centre Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

7,000.00

42 External expert to analyse possible AI solutions for problems already assessed and conduct relevant activities.

PP08 State Shared Service Centre Exchange of experience – external support

20,000.00

43 regional and interregional dissemination events PP08 State Shared Service Centre Communication – events 5,000.00

44 Printing of 1 A3 poster, 1 pop-up stands to be used for local dissemination during events and workshops, printing of 2 brochure

PP08 State Shared Service Centre Communication – material 2,000.00

45 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

10,000.00

46 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

5,000.00

TOTAL 557,164.00

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Item ⬆ Description Contracting partner Type of costs TOTAL

47 associated policy responsible authority, stakeholders PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Exchange of experience – travel and accommodation external bodies

15,000.00

TOTAL 557,164.00

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F.3 Equipment

Item ⬆ Description Contracting partner Type of costs TOTAL

1 e.g. Computer/laptop, software licences PP07 Pannon Business Network Association Office Equipment 800.00

TOTAL 800.00

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F.4 Infrastructure and works

Item ⬆ Description Contracting partner Type of costs TOTAL

TOTAL 0.00

Create a pilot action in the policy instrument section to add entries to "Infrastructure and works".

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F.5 Project budget per co-financing source - breakdown per partner

Partner ⬆ Country Total Interreg

funds Interreg/ Norwegian

funds rate (%) Norwegian Partner contribution from public sources

Partner contribution from private sources

Total partner contribution

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Italy (Italia) 424,100.00 339,280.00 80.0% 0.00 84,820.00 0.00 84,820.00

PP02 Region Västerbotten Sweden (Sverige) 274,338.00 219,470.40 80.0% 0.00 54,867.60 0.00 54,867.60

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

Portugal (Portugal) 185,002.00 148,001.60 80.0% 0.00 37,000.40 0.00 37,000.40

PP04 Normandy Regional Council France (France) 236,504.00 189,203.20 80.0% 0.00 47,300.80 0.00 47,300.80

PP05 Province of Antwerp Belgium (Belgique/België)

158,665.00 126,932.00 80.0% 0.00 31,733.00 0.00 31,733.00

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

Spain (España) 125,965.00 100,772.00 80.0% 0.00 25,193.00 0.00 25,193.00

PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

Hungary (Magyarország)

213,200.00 170,560.00 80.0% 0.00 42,640.00 0.00 42,640.00

PP08 State Shared Service Centre Estonia (Eesti) 238,696.00 190,956.80 80.0% 0.00 47,739.20 0.00 47,739.20

Total 1,856,470.00 1,485,176.00 0.0% 0.00 371,294.00 0.00 371,294.00

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F.6 Spending plan

Core phase

Partner ⬆ Preparation costs Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4 Semester 5 Semester 6 TOTAL BUDGET

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region 17,500.00 46,685.00 56,422.00 60,422.00 62,922.00 62,922.00 64,690.00 424,100.00

PP02 Region Västerbotten 0.00 28,788.00 43,651.00 38,445.00 38,445.00 38,445.00 44,178.00 274,338.00

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency 0.00 15,818.00 25,518.00 34,375.00 30,368.00 30,368.00 27,519.00 185,002.00

PP04 Normandy Regional Council 0.00 21,178.00 33,870.00 35,670.00 44,133.00 37,420.00 38,205.00 236,504.00

PP05 Province of Antwerp 0.00 16,163.00 23,421.00 22,321.00 22,571.00 25,200.00 25,016.00 158,665.00

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya 0.00 11,857.00 17,601.00 17,601.00 18,851.00 18,851.00 21,258.00 125,965.00

PP07 Pannon Business Network Association 0.00 27,334.00 30,094.00 30,094.00 30,094.00 30,094.00 35,710.00 213,200.00

PP08 State Shared Service Centre 0.00 21,687.00 33,724.00 34,324.00 35,324.00 35,324.00 38,385.00 238,696.00

Total 17,500.00 189,510.00 264,301.00 273,252.00 282,708.00 278,624.00 294,961.00 1,856,470.00

% of Total budget 0.9% 10.2% 14.2% 14.7% 15.2% 15.0% 15.9% 100.0%

Follow-up and closure phase

Partner ⬆ Semester

7 Semester 8 and closure

TOTAL BUDGET

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region

26,119.00 26,418.00 424,100.00

PP02 Region Västerbotten 21,143.00 21,243.00 274,338.00

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency

10,468.00 10,568.00 185,002.00

Total 123,345.00 132,269.00 1,856,470.00

% of Total budget 6.6% 7.1% 100.0%

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Partner ⬆ Semester

7 Semester 8 and closure

TOTAL BUDGET

PP04 Normandy Regional Council

13,014.00 13,014.00 236,504.00

PP05 Province of Antwerp 12,087.00 11,886.00 158,665.00

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya

10,073.00 9,873.00 125,965.00

PP07 Pannon Business Network Association

16,733.00 13,047.00 213,200.00

PP08 State Shared Service Centre

13,708.00 26,220.00 238,696.00

Total 123,345.00 132,269.00 1,856,470.00

% of Total budget 6.6% 7.1% 100.0%

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G Annexes

Partners

Associated policy authorities

LP01 Emilia-Romagna Region Please upload a partner declaration.

PP02 Region Västerbotten Please upload a partner declaration.

PP03 Cohesion and Development Agency Please upload a partner declaration.

PP04 Normandy Regional Council Please upload a partner declaration.

PP05 Province of Antwerp Please upload a partner declaration.

PP06 Ministry of the Economy and Finance, Generalitat de Catalunya Please upload a partner declaration.

PP07 Pannon Business Network Association Please upload a partner declaration.

PP08 State Shared Service Centre Please upload a partner declaration.

National Development Centre Please upload a partner declaration.

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Lõkke 4 / 10122 Tallinn / 663 8200 / [email protected] / www.rtk.ee / Registrikood 70007340

Riina Virkus

Rahandusministeerium

[email protected] Meie 26.08.2025 nr 11.1-1/25/1706-1

Suur-Ameerika tn 1

Tallinn

10122 Harju maakond

Sildfinantseerimise taotlemine projektile

SHARPEI

Palun võimaldada vastavalt riigieelarve seaduses § 54 sätestatule Riigi Tugiteenuste Keskusel

kasutada 2024. aastal sildfinantseerimise vahendeid projektile „SHARPEI (Strategic

Harmonization and Advanced Reporting for Policy Enhancement and Insights)“ (kood 9R40-

IR21-SHARPEI) summas 16 800 eurot. Projekti elluviimiseks on projekti juhtpartner Regione

Emilia-Romagna sõlminud Interreg Europe sekretariaadiga 25.03.2025 projekti rahastuslepingu

nr 03C1103, millega antakse üle õigused ja kohustused ka projekti partneritele.

Kinnitan, et vahendite osalise või täismahus mittelaekumise korral vastutab Riigi Tugiteenuste

Keskus projekti sildfinantseerimise jäägi tagastamise eest.

Lugupidamisega

(allkirjastatud digitaalselt)

Pärt-Eo Rannap

peadirektor

Lisa:

1. SHARPEI projektitaotlus

2. SHARPEI leping juhtpartneri ja rahastaja vahel_25.03.25

3. RTK välisvahendite eelarve avamine 2025 (SHARPEI)

4. E-kiri juhtpartnerilt

Lona Pärtel 5564 1556

[email protected]