PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
The LIFE programme introduced action grants for capacity-building projects for the 2014-2017 funding period. These are projects designed to build Member States' capacity to participate more effectively in the LIFE Programme. Specifically, these projects propose interventions to develop the capacity to submit successful applications for funding for projects under the sub-programmes for Environment and Climate Action. Member States that meet the criteria may each receive funding of up to one million euros for one capacity-building project. Only national level public bodies responsible for implementation of LIFE in an eligible Member State in the European Union may apply for capacity-building projects.
OBJECTIVES
The strategic vision of the Cypriot LIFE National Contact Point (NCP) was to enhance the effectiveness of support services and the assistance provided to potential Cypriot applicants to the LIFE Programme. The aim of the CYCLamEn project was to increase performance levels in terms of both number and quality of proposals, therefore reversing the trend during the past four years when submitted proposals and those finally approved were significantly reduced. The beneficiary foresaw the compilation of a strategic objective to strengthen the capacity of its resources, by refining and improving its current skills base, and by developing new competencies and utilising new means and approaches.
RESULTS
The CYCLamEnproject carried out a series of actions to improve the capacity of the Cypriot LIFE NCP, including the organisation of training programmes, networking events and the publication of informational materials that will help applicants for LIFE funding prepare their proposals.
The project team helped improve awareness among Cypriot stakeholders by holding training and information days, which attracted more than 700 participants in total. The team also set up a helpdesk to answer questions about proposal writing as well as to promote the LIFE programme. Similarly, two large networking events were held in the last two years of the project (after delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic).
Additionally, the informational materials produced included videos and reports that contain useful advice and tips for writing a proposal. Applicants can also now benefit from access to a database comprising the deliverables of previous LIFE projects implemented in Cyprus. However, the team was advised to address structural barriers to LIFE applications, and during the last year of project, it contacted SMEs associations to improve the number of representatives of SMEs at the final info events and conference.
The long-term impact of the project actions will be supported by the networking established among stakeholders and the continued availability of the project database.
