Associate in the Preparation and Implementation of EU Projects

The Associate in the Preparation and Implementation of EU Projects programme is a practical education programme designed for anyone who wants to acquire operational knowledge and skills for participating in the preparation, application, and implementation of projects financed through EU grant funding. The programme enables participants to understand call documentation, application procedures, the basic rules of project implementation and reporting, as well as work within the eFondovi and eNPOO systems, while learning through concrete examples. Teaching combines theoretical and practical components, with a strong focus on real project situations and tasks that reflect the day-to-day role of an associate working on EU projects. The value of the programme lies in its practical applicability, its clearly defined operational focus, and its relevance for work in the public, private, and civil sectors.

• Understand how EU funds, calls for proposals, and the basic rules for the preparation and implementation of grant-funded projects function.
• Identify key information in call documentation, participate in the preparation of a project proposal, and complete application forms.
• Apply the basic rules of project implementation, reporting, public procurement, and work within the eFondovi and eNPOO systems.
• Resolve concrete tasks performed by EU project associates through practical exercises and work on real project examples.

Upon completion of the programme, participants will be able to:

• identify the key information and requirements contained in call documentation for EU projects
• distinguish between relevant and irrelevant information when preparing a project proposal
• participate in preparing the basic elements of a project application in accordance with the rules of the call
• complete application forms and use the eFondovi and eNPOO systems to submit project proposals
• apply the basic rules governing the implementation of projects financed through EU funds
• contribute to reporting to the contracting authority and to monitoring project activities
• identify the basic requirements related to public procurement, administration, and documentation of project implementation

The programme is intended for individuals who want to acquire operational knowledge for working on the preparation and implementation of EU projects and develop competences that are in demand in the field of EU funds. It is especially useful for those who want to participate in project teams and learn the concrete tasks of an associate within the project cycle.

• beginners who want to enter the field of EU funds and project work
• employees in public institutions, local and regional self-government units, and development agencies
• employees in companies and organisations that use or plan to use EU funding
• members of associations and civil society organisations
• administrative and project associates who want to strengthen their practical knowledge
• individuals seeking retraining or career development in the field of EU projects

1. Fundamentals of EU Funds and Funding Sources
   Participants gain an overview of the EU funds system and the main funding sources, including the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021 to 2027, the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, the EU Solidarity Fund, and other relevant sources. The focus is on understanding the logic of funding and the opportunities available to different types of applicants.
2. Call Documentation and Project Proposal Preparation
   This unit covers the analysis of call documentation, identifying key conditions, and distinguishing important information in the preparation of an application. Participants learn how to take part in preparing a project proposal and how to understand the basic elements of a high-quality project application.
3. Application Forms and Work in the eFondovi and eNPOO Systems
   This unit focuses on practical work with application forms and the digital systems used for project submission. Participants acquire the basic steps for completing documentation and submitting a project application through the eFondovi and eNPOO systems.
4. Fundamentals of EU Project Implementation
   Participants become familiar with the basic rules governing project implementation after funding approval. This unit covers administrative requirements, activity monitoring, project documentation, and the operational tasks associated with project delivery.
5. Reporting, Call Rules, and Public Procurement
   This unit covers the basic reporting obligations towards the contracting authority, compliance with the rules of the call, and understanding the role of public procurement in project implementation. The emphasis is on proper monitoring of implementation and accurate administration of project activities.
6. Practical Exercises and Work on a Concrete Project
   The programme includes practical work on project examples, enabling participants to connect acquired knowledge with the real tasks of an associate in the preparation and implementation of EU projects. The focus is on applicability, accuracy, and understanding each step of the project process.