EU Connects

Simplifying your route to transnational funding

EU Connects is the new EU-funded regional resource for the West Midlands offering advice and support to assist organisations in applying for European funding to deliver trans-national projects. Unlike Structural Funds, Trans-national funding is open to any organisation in any geographic location, to encourage exchange of best practice between different European regions.

The centre hopes to improve the quality of bids from organisations in the West Midlands; as well the success rate of bids and the amount of EU funds coming into the region. In addition it is hoped that the centre will help with the dissemination of practical and policy lessons learned; and to build the profile of the West Midlands on the European Stage.

If you are you looking for some innovative ideas, cost efficient solutions or exchange of best practice on a serious local or regional issue, it may be time to explore the opportunities available through European project work. Trans-national funds can offer up to 100% funding for travel and subsistence costs incurred with any exchange of best practice project: all you need to get started, is to let us help you find the right European partner.

EU Connects centre can offer assistance at each stage in the project cycle

Getting Started

• Explanation of trans-national funds: how relevant to your priorities?
• Advice and guidance on funding deadlines
• Training courses on bid writing & Funding bodies’ open days / surgeries (details of training courses)

Ideas into Action

• One-to-one advice to develop project ideas & second opinion on draft bids
• Help with finding European (and/or local) project partners
• Funded preparatory visit to meet your partners and discuss projects

Tools for Delivery

• Training and advice on project management / budget planning
• Help with impact assessments / report writing / audit returns /closure
• Best practice seminars to share experience across the region