EU-desk Curaçao

EU Desk Curaçao, operating under the division of Foreign Economic Cooperation within the Ministry of Economic Development, is the central support system for local organizations and businesses seeking funding opportunities. It was established in December 2018 to increase awareness about available EU Horizontal grants and provide guidance to entities in Curaçao seeking financial support. The desk offers informational resources, application assistance, and active participation in grant-seeking projects, making accessing funding opportunities easier for local initiatives.

The team at EU Desk Curaçao has extensive experience in government management and grant-seeking.

Serve as a National Contact Point for all non-EDF programs:

• Support and assist researchers, research groups, R&D managers, and SMEs interested in identifying opportunities and preparing grant applications.

Search and identify EU calls and programs for which Curaçao is eligible, such as business, education, and research grants.

• Search the EU sites, programs, and funding portals for interesting project calls for proposals and tenders for Curaçao.
• Analyze eligibility qualifications for grants and participation criteria.

Assist and advise about applications for calls and calls for proposals:

• Help interested parties find opportunities in a grant project call or call for proposals.
• Assist interested parties in finding a consortium or a partner organization to participate in projects.
• Help draft grant applications.
• Participation in grant projects.
• Support partner search activities using internet-based tools, grant search databases and cooperation networks.
• Assist in opening an EU Funding & Tender portal account and registering individuals and organizations;
• Give guidance for the grant application process and submission of proposals.
• Advise on administrative procedures, rules, and issues, such as the role and responsibilities of consortium participants and their costs, rights, and obligations.
• Provide overall grant application tips.

Give information and raise awareness on non-EDF programs:

•  Circulate general and specific information on the programs, including conditions for participation, possibilities and conditions for submission of proposals and essential links.
• Organize information and promotional events.

Help build local capacity to apply and manage projects of EU programs:

• Organize courses and training seminars for specific target groups (SMEs, universities, business organizations) or on particular topics (grant writing, grant proposal writing tips, budgeting, financial rules).

Participate actively in transnational networks to stimulate access to EU funding via partnerships.

1. What are European Grants and Funds?

European Grants and Funds are financial resources the European Union provides to support various projects and initiatives across member states and overseas countries & territories. These funds aim to stimulate economic growth, innovation, research, and development in key areas.

2. Who can apply for European Grants and Funds?

Eligibility varies depending on the specific program. Generally, businesses, research institutions, public authorities, and non-profit organizations can apply. The EU Funding & Tender Portal  https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/ provides details on eligibility for each funding opportunity.

3. What types of projects are funded by European Funds?

Thematic areas change over time, but funding typically supports projects in research and development, innovation, environmental protection, job creation, infrastructure development, and business competitiveness.

4. How much funding is available?

The total amount of funding varies depending on the program and the overall EU budget. For more information on specific funding details for the grant opportunities, you can contact our office at [email protected] or [email protected]

5. How do I find out about available grants?

The EU Funding & Tender website provides a list of funding opportunities with descriptions and deadlines. You can also subscribe to our newsletter for updates on new programs.

6. What is the application process?

The application process typically involves submitting a proposal online through the European Commission’s Funding & Tenders Portal https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/. The website will provide guidance and resources to assist you with the application process.

7. What kind of support does EU Desk Curaçao offer?

The EU Desk Curaçao offers various support services, including guidance on finding relevant funding opportunities, eligibility checks, application writing assistance, and workshops on proposal development.

8. What are the selection criteria for grants?

Selection criteria vary by program but generally focus on the project’s innovation, impact, feasibility, and alignment with EU priorities.

9. What happens after I submit my application?

After submission, your application will be evaluated by independent experts. You will be notified of the outcome within the timeframe specified in the call for proposals.

10. How long does it take to receive funding?

The timeframe for receiving funding depends on the specific program and the evaluation process. It typically takes a few months after a successful application.

11. Can I apply for a grant individually, or do I need to be part of a consortium?

This depends on the program. Some programs allow single applicants, while others require partnerships (consortia) with organizations from other EU member states.

12. What are the co-financing requirements?

European Grants and Funds often require co-financing from the applicant. This means you might need to contribute a certain percentage of the project’s total budget from your own resources.

13. Are there any language requirements for applications?

Yes, applications are usually submitted in English, although some programs might accept other official EU languages.

14. What happens if my application is not successful?

Feedback is usually provided to unsuccessful applicants. You can use this feedback to improve your proposal for future applications.

15. Are there any costs associated with applying for a grant?

The application process itself is generally free. However, there might be costs associated with proposal development, such as feasibility studies or expert consultations.