How post-27 LEADER/CLLD programming could contribute to better implementation of the EU's rural vision: CoR opinion

A recently adopted opinion of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) proposes the establishment of new implementation tools to strengthen support for LEADER/CLLD. These would be based on a lead fund and the use of lump-sum payments for small projects.

The CoR opinion calls for strengthened and better targeted place-policies through enhanced LEADER/CLLD capacity. To achieve this, simplified access to EU funding and procedures under a coherent and flexible approach to territorial development are critical.

The management regulations of the lead LEADER/CLLD fund would apply to contributions from other mobilised funds, each with a mandatory percentage of funding earmarked for CLLD. Pre-financing and advance schemes for small projects, and advance payment of 80% of the grant awarded upon project approval are also encouraged.

Explore the latest Rural Pact resources on LEADER/CLLD.