The work of the European Commission for the definition of the new programming of the structural funds 2021-2027 is underway.  It is not too early to think about it and it is not only a topic for experts.

Knowing programs drivers is crucial for a correct design activity and to enrich our access capacity to most appropriate funding for our projects.

Let’s see together the main changes for next years:

• More available resources. The total amount of resources will be equal to 1,135 billion euros, with an increase of almost 30% compared to the 2014-2020 period.
• Simpler programs. The number of programs will be reduced to a third, to make the programmes structure clearer in relation to the objectives of the Union.
• Less bureaucracy. The administrative obligations will be reduced thanks to the return to the “N + 2” rule that will allow the Ministries and the Regions to have two years to certify expenses.
• Simpler controls. In particular for SMEs, the checks will only be carried out at national level, excluding the European context, thanks to the introduction of the single audit principle.

Research and innovation, young people, the digital economy, border management, security and defense are some of the main drivers that have led the new 2021-2027 program.

These keywords have been broken down into five strategic objectives that will accompany us constantly over the next few years:

• Smart Europe (innovation, digital technologies, support for SMEs, industrial modernization);
• Green Europe with zero carbon emissions (Energy transition, circular economy, renewable energy, energy efficiency, fight against climate change);
• Connected Europe (infrastructure transport networks and broadband and ultra-broadband);
• Social Europe (European path of social rights, education, employment, skills, social inclusion);
• Europe close to citizens (sustainable urban development strategies and locally-guided development strategies).