Interreg
Interreg is an EU programme aimed at fostering and supporting cooperation between different regions of the European Union.
The programme, which was originally launched in 1989, covers all of the EU’s Member States, together with other partner and neighbouring States.
Interreg VA is one of 60 cross-border programmes operating under the main Interreg umbrella. The programme is due to run from 2017-2022 and encompasses the six Border counties of Ireland, Northern Ireland and part of Western Scotland. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment co-funds its “Research and Innovation” strand, in conjunction with its counterpart Department in Northern Ireland, the Department for the Economy
All funding has now been committed and a range of projects are underway in the designated “Health and Life Sciences” and “Renewable Energy” sectors. These projects involve research by relevant academic institutions which are bringing business benefits to companies in those sectors. In addition, the Programme assists SMEs to pursue Research and Innovation for the benefit of their specific operations.
Peace Plus
Peace Plus is a new cross-border EU funding programme for the 2021-2027 period, which will build on and continue the work of both the current Interreg VA and Peace IV programmes Peace Plus will continue to support activities that contribute towards a prosperous and stable society in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland; including activities that promote peace and reconciliation and contribute to the cross border economic and territorial development of the region.