Evaluation of the impact of Structural Funds on SMEs
The European Commission, DG XVI, has published an invitation to tender concerning the thematic evaluation of the impact of the Structural funds on SMEs. The study is to provide a thorough and systematic analysis of the contribution and impact of the support of Structural Funds to SMEs in the EU Member States and regions. On the basis of the analysis the study will draw up recommendations for future investment by Structural Funds in support of SMEs in the assisted regions. The study will: - (a) Examine in detail the strategies of the interventions of Structural Funds in support of SMEs in order to see how well founded they are in relation to the strengths and weaknesses of the region aided, other public SME policies, and current ideas on public sector support for SMEs; - (b) Develop a detailed description of the actions of Structural Funds in support of SMEs, preparing a detailed typography as well as details of funding and the relative importance of different measures; - (c) Examine the implementation of the SME actions in order to assess their efficacy; - (d) Assess the impact of different measures and measure-types in meeting stated objectives and, if different, increasing employment and growth; - (e) Analyse the results of the support provided by Structural Funds in order to determine the reasons for successes and failures; - (f) Make recommendations on how to improve future interventions. The study will be concerned with the regional Structural Funds programmes during the period 1989-1999. All EU Member States will be covered. The study should be completed within one year. Tender documentation may be obtained from: European Commission DG XVI - Regional policy and cohesion Unit G/2 200 rue de la Loi (CSM1 9/16) B-1049 Brussels Tel. +32-2-2951685; Fax +32-2-2963311 Completed tenders should be sent to: European Commission DG XVI - Regional policies and cohesion Mr. Goybet Unit G/2 200 rue de la Loi (CSM1 9/16) B-1049 Brussels