Funding sources for Accession States

SAPARD

SAPARD is a new programme that aims to help candidate countries deal with the problems of structural adjustment in their agricultural sectors and rural areas, as well as in the implementation of the acquis communautaire [ 1 ] concerning the CAP (Common Agricultural Policy) and related legislation.

SAPARD came into effect on January 1, 2000, and is budgeted until the end of 2006. However, candidate countries may only benefit through SAPARD between the year 2000 and the time they join the Union. Funding is normally up to 75 per cent of the project costs and applications should be made through the National Agencies.

In summary:

SAPARD finances major agricultural and rural development projects
has an annual budget of Euro 520 million
comes under the responsibility of DG Agriculture.

Actions covered of special interest to Regional Authorities include co-financing of:

improving the processing and marketing of agricultural and fishery products
development and diversification of economic activities, providing for multiple activities and alternative income
setting up producer groups
renovation and development of villages, and protection and conservation of the rural heritage
improvement of vocational training
development and improvement of rural infrastructure.

Note:

[1] The term Aquis Communitaire refers to the existing body of EU regulations and practices to which candidate countries will be expected to conform if they join the Union. [back]

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