Gateways to Funding

Every project which applies for funding from the OP ERDF NRW, is taking part in a (transparent) selection process. Depending on the type of project, there are different gateways to being selected. Each project is chosen based on certain criteria. 

Generally, projects are selected through competitions or specific calls for projects. An independent committee of experts recommends projects for funding. Information about current competitions and calls for projects can be found here.

Individual selections based on specific criteria are only possible in cases of extraordinary significance for the federal state, or in justified cases which are prevented from taking part in competitions or calls for projects.

Proposals for consulting and qualification in particular, are selected on the basis of funding guidelines. Investments are also partly supported through funds. Information about this can be found here: 

Additionally, public procurement procedures are observed for specific topics.


Competitions

In these competitions, different selection criteria are the basis for a scoring system, upon which an independent committee of experts evaluates the submitted projects and makes recommendations. A call for competition includes, among other things, the substantial aims of the competition, its formal requirements, selection criteria, as well as the committee’s constitution and the schedule. 

Calls for Projects

Calls for projects are directed at communities, regions, public institutions and supporters - inviting them to apply with concepts and corresponding project proposals. The calls contain, among other things, substantial aims, formal requirements, selection criteria, as well the schedule. An independent committee of experts is responsible for the selection in this instance as well.

Criteria-based Case Decisions

Individual selections based on specific criteria are only possible in cases of innovative coordination and transfer projects which have extraordinary significance for the federal state, or in justified individual cases which can’t be chosen through competitions or calls for projects. The departments involved, together with expert committees, can submit these projects for funding to the state secretaries committee - doing so on the basis of previously defined selection criteria for each specific aim. 


Detailed selection criteria of the OP EFRE NEW “Investments in growth and employment” for download here: