Funding for green transition development projects from the European Regional Development Fund

The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) provides funding for public and private bodies throughout the EU. The goal is to even out disparities in development between countries and regions, create vitality, boost employment, support sustainable growth and increase competitiveness. This is achieved by supporting various development projects.

One of the national priorities for the European Regional Development Fund in 2021–2027 is the green transition. The Ministry of the Environment is responsible for coordinating work in this area. The green transition is a strategy for change that aims to strengthen the economy using green technology, sustainable industry, emissions reductions and other sustainable means.

The Ministry of the Environment is responsible for three national themes:

• energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions (EUR 11.5 million)
• climate change adaptation and mitigation measures (EUR 4 million)
• a carbon-neutral circular economy society (EUR 11.5 million).

Funding within the framework for promoting the green transition will be granted to projects that develop widely utilisable and scalable solutions. These may include demo projects highlighting the culture of experimentation and showcasing new operating models. Projects receiving funding must be scalable for use nationwide.

Themes

Energy efficiency

This theme aims to promote the development and introduction of energy-efficient and low-carbon solutions. Potential targets include new construction, renovation, industry, facilities, and the public and private sectors. The theme is also connected to the efficient use of materials and smart solutions.

Climate change

The objective of this theme is to create new solutions related to climate change adaptation and mitigation. These solutions will help society improve its preparedness for weather and climate risks, adapt to these risks, and respond to the challenges of the green transition. The solutions may include innovations, technologies, operating models or nature-based solutions.

Circular economy

Projects under this theme aim to produce added value and develop solutions for recycling materials and rationalising the consumption of natural resources. Priorities include experiments that promote the sharing economy and reuse, utilisation of production capacity and side streams, and cooperation models for the circular economy.

Who is the funding intended for?

The funding is available to companies, municipalities and joint municipal authorities, other regional actors, higher education institutions, research institutes, associations and foundations.

How do I apply for funding?

Funding for projects on the themes of energy efficiency and climate change is provided by the North Ostrobothnia Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment. For projects on the theme of the circular economy, the funding is provided by the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment for Häme. The focus areas for each theme will be further specified in the calls for applications.

The calls for applications will be published in the EURA2021 service (available in Finnish and Swedish).

Read more

Rakennerahastot.fi (available in Finnish and Swedish)
European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) | European Commission