European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Cohesion Fund (2021–2027)
The regulation provides the framework for strengthening regional competitiveness and addressing structural policy challenges in the regions of the EU.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
The ERDF aims to reduce regional disparities and strengthen economic, territorial, and social cohesion within the European Union. Funds are allocated to measures supporting innovative economic transformation, sustainable urban development, as well as infrastructure investments, applied research, and innovations. The Cohesion Fund complements these objectives through targeted support for environmental infrastructure and trans-European transport networks.
Eligible to apply
- Companies
- Public Institutions
Funding requirements
- Funding is provided within the framework of operational programs of the Member States
- Submission of proposals takes place through calls for proposals by the European Commission
- Participation requirements are based on theme-specific funding guidelines of the individual federal states
Description
The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as well as the Cohesion Fund (2021–2027) represent a central financial instrument that contributes within the framework of EU regional policy to strengthening regional competitiveness and reducing structural disparities. The regulation defines the legal framework within which financial grants are provided to promote economic, territorial, and social cohesion. Targeted support is given to projects in the areas of digitalization, infrastructure, regional development, smart cities & regions, urban development & urban renewal, as well as rural development. The funding program places particular emphasis on promoting innovative and sustainable measures that increase regional value creation, advance climate-friendly transformation, and improve urban quality of life.
Eligible for funding are companies, public institutions, municipalities, as well as associations and organizations engaged in the competition for the economic and structural upswing of the regions. Funding is provided as a grant, awarded within the framework of national and regional operational programs of the federal states. Projects that include investments in infrastructure, research and innovation activities, or productive measures for job security, for example, can benefit from the financial resources. The specific funding guidelines, published by the individual federal states and the European Commission in the form of calls for proposals, also define the participation requirements. This ensures a transparent and targeted funding process that meets both the needs of the participating regions and the overarching strategic objectives of the EU.
The instrument not only supports technological and economic developments but also promotes ecological and social transformation by prioritizing projects in the areas of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable mobility. In addition to classic infrastructure measures, projects within applied research and innovation are also specifically supported to advance the transformation process in the regions. Through this broad-based funding, a contribution is made to improving quality of life, strengthening the integration of diverse population groups, and fostering collaborative exchange between experts, companies, and public institutions. The financial support thus demonstrates the EU’s commitment to considering regional particularities, promoting disadvantaged areas, and securing a fair, resilient, and innovative economic location in the long term.