In this topic we wanted to analyze the European growth and cohesion policies, and the instruments need it for their consecution. Structural and Investment Funds (SIF), is the correct term today, although we used to called them «Structural Funds». However, this two terms are different, the Structural and Investment Funds are a combination of different founds directed to regions that now are in a single regulatory framework.

The basic content that you will find in the lesson is the following:

• Historical development of Structural and Investment Funds and Cohesion.
• Areas financed by the European budget.
• ERDF and ESF: eligibility requirements.
• The Cohesion Fund: eligibility requirements.
• Programming of the funds.
• Thematic aims.
• Allocation of funds by member states.
• Financial instruments.
• Junker’s Plan.
• Next financial framework.