The Interreg Spain-Portugal program (POCTEP) 2021-2027 has opened two new funding calls providing a total of 31 million euros in ERDF funds for cross-border cooperation projects with impact between Portugal and Spain. The 9th call started on September 9 with 10 million euros for the Small Project Funds, while the 10th call opens on September 29 with an initial allocation of 21 million euros.
Applications for the first phase run until October 21, with a maximum ERDF co-financing rate of 75% of eligible costs. Small Project Funds must present a minimum budget of 200 thousand euros, with each small project able to receive up to 100 thousand euros in public contribution, with a limit of 22 thousand euros for business support.
The 10th call, which accepts applications until November 17, covers a broader scope of intervention, including research and innovation, advanced technologies, digitalization, business competitiveness, renewable energies, energy efficiency, climate change, biodiversity, employment, health, culture and sustainable tourism. Operations must include, as a rule, at least one entity from Portugal and another from Spain.
These opportunities are particularly relevant for entities in the Alentejo region that wish to develop projects in partnership with Spanish partners, namely from Extremadura. Approved projects may be implemented until June 30, 2029, but must demonstrate cross-border character and impact; being located in a border region alone is not sufficient to access funding.
