Struktuurrahastuse

Struktuurrahastuse refers to funding provided by the European Union to support economic and social cohesion across its member states. These funds are designed to reduce disparities between different regions and to promote sustainable development. The primary goal is to foster growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for all European citizens.

The operational programs are managed by national and regional authorities, who are responsible for selecting and implementing projects that align with EU priorities. These priorities are set out in multiannual financial frameworks and focus on areas such as innovation and research, the digital agenda, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, the low-carbon economy, and environmental protection.

There are several types of structural and investment funds, including the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the European Social Fund (ESF), and the Cohesion Fund. The ERDF focuses on regional development and investment in infrastructure, while the ESF supports employment and social inclusion initiatives. The Cohesion Fund assists member states with lower national income in financing environmental and transport infrastructure projects.

Access to struktuurrahastuse is based on a system of co-financing, meaning that EU funds must be supplemented by national or regional contributions. This ensures a shared commitment to the objectives of the funding. The allocation of funds is determined by the relative prosperity of member states and regions, with less developed areas receiving greater support.