The abbreviation ESPON means European Spatial Planning Observation Network, which is focused on regional development and cohesion.
For whom is ESPON intended and how is this programme financed?
The programme may be used by public organisations and private entities from both EU Member States as well as EU partner states (Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland). Approximately EUR 45 million has been earmarked for their projects, which amount covers 100% of eligible projects costs, with contributions from Member States and partner states.
What are the managing structures of the programme?
The entire process is executed in English and the Managing Authority of ESPON 2013 is the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Infrastructure of Luxembourg. The National Coordinator for the Czech Republic has been set up under the Czech Ministry of Regional Development and the National Contact Point is headed by the Institute for Spatial Development in Brno.
What are the priority axes of the programme?
The ESPON 2013 programme is divided up into five priorities according to programme strategy and defined objectives. The first four are thematic - they determine the focus of the various projects:
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Applied spatial development research, competitiveness and cohesion
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Targeted analysis based on user demand
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Scientific base and instruments
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Capitalisation, ownership and participation
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Technical assistance
ESPON 2013 was approved by the European Commission on 7 November 2007.