One of the biggest challenge that Interreg programmes are facing is the limited number and choice of participating project partners. In many ways, the "Interreg world" is perceived as rather hermetic and riddled with complicated, demanding procedures. As a result, many programmes suffer from a lack of projects in general, or complain about having the same partnerships applying over and over. This is a serious challenge which may directly affect the overall programme performance (in terms of indicators), or at least compromise the innovativeness of the submitted project ideas. Of course, there is nothing wrong in having secured a pool of experienced partners, ready to establish solid partnerships and submit a "proper" project proposal at short notice, despite them being less innovative and of a rather repetitive nature. Nevertheless, investing some effort in encouraging complete newcomers would only enrich the programme and its project portfolio. 

Indeed, there is quite an obvious remedy to the above-mentioned challenges; namely, to approach and attract completely new institutions, to go beyond typical practices and explore new, uncharted "markets". Of course this is easy to say, but how can it be done in practice?

Objectives and approach

This is where the Interreg "Newbies" project comes into play. So far, Interact has been quite successful in facilitating the exchange of practices between programmes; however, we dare reach for more and we would like to go one step forward. Thus, the idea is to establish a group of several committed programmes who will work together (accompanied by Interact and, if necessary, external experts) to develop fully-fledged solution(s) for completely new, innovative practices of attracting and introducing new partners to their programmes. The aim is not only to develop, but most importantly, to implement and test it in practice. Thus, the work should be understood as a longer process (project) and not as one-off event.

Who is it for

As mentioned above, the "Interreg Newbies" project is dedicated to programme practitioners (from JS and MA) who are committed and ready to develop and implement innovative solutions in their programmes, thus improve the overall performance of the programme. The main objective of the first event is to provide further explanation on the idea and approach, to reconfirm the specific needs and clarify expectations. And - most importantly - to set up a project team.

If, having read the draft agenda attached to this announcement, you have any questions or would like more information on this event, please contact the member iof Interact's staff whose name appears below.

Finally, please use the registration button below to register for this event.