European Funding 2000 - 2006
European Social Funding (ESF) is administered to projects in Northern Ireland through three programmes namely: Building Sustainable Prosperity, EQUAL and Peace II. Actions supported by the programmes reflect the European Employment Strategy and combine to address barriers to employment, equal opportunities for women and disabled people and target the skills needs of our changing local economy. Funding has been committed also to tackle literacy and numeracy needs.
Most competitions are currently closed, however Building Sustainable Prosperity's 3rd and final call for some measures has been launched and can be viewed on the main BSP page. Calls for applications are made from time to time through open competitions. These are announced on this website and advertised in the press.
Any public or private organisation which is legally formed, except sole traders, can apply for European Social Fund assistance. Please note that individuals cannot apply on their own behalf.
The Department administers a number of measures and initiatives which are designed to tackle specific labour market needs of both the employed and unemployed in line with the European Employment Strategy.
