Rakennerahoitus

Rakennerahoitus refers to financial support provided by the European Union to promote economic and social cohesion within its member states. This funding is primarily channeled through the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF), which include the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), the Cohesion Fund, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).

The main objective of Rakennerahoitus is to reduce disparities in development between different regions and member states, support job creation, foster innovation and competitiveness, promote sustainable development, and enhance social inclusion. The funds are allocated based on specific priorities and programming periods, with member states developing national and regional operational programs to outline how they will utilize the available resources.

These programs are co-financed by national or regional budgets, meaning the EU contributes a certain percentage of the total project cost, and the member state or region contributes the remainder. Projects funded by Rakennerahoitus can cover a wide range of areas, including infrastructure development, research and development, small and medium-sized enterprise support, education and training, environmental protection, and social services. The implementation and management of Rakennerahoitus are complex, involving various authorities at the EU, national, and regional levels.