What is the ERDF?

Since its creation in 1975, the Opens in new windowERDF has played an important role in reducing development imbalances between EU regions, by funding a wide variety of projects. These projects cover areas such as research and innovation, the digital transformation of SMEs, entrepreneurship, touristic and cultural centres, urban development, the low-carbon transition and the development of business parks, making a significant contribution to economic and territorial revitalisation.

The aim of the cohesion policy for the various European regions is to reduce the economic, social and territorial inequalities that exist between all its cities and regions. 

Each budgetary period of the European Union, known as the “multiannual financial framework”, defines the ERDF’s specific priorities. These priorities are generally in line with the major objectives of the European Union, such as promoting innovation, sustainable development, social inclusion and economic growth.

The multiannual financial framework defines seven-year programming periods for carrying out projects in the various regions of Europe, with a further two or three years to finalise these projects if necessary.

The ERDF operates on the principle of co-financing. This means that projects receiving ERDF funding must also receive funding from other public or private sources. The co-financing rate may vary according to the level of economic development of the region in question. 

The funds allocated to the ERDF are divided between the different regions and countries of the European Union according to criteria such as the GDP per capita. Regional and national authorities are generally responsible for selecting and managing projects funded by the ERDF.

The Government of the Brussels-Capital Region has decided to set up within the External linkBrussels Regional Public Service, and more specifically within Brussels International, a department responsible for managing and coordinating the ERDF. This ERDF Department is responsible for preparing, implementing and monitoring the ERDF operational programmes in the Brussels Capital Region.  It is in contact with the European institutions as well as regional and local players, drawing on the expertise of other regional government departments, regional partners, fund beneficiaries and other Belgian and European regions.