The Operational Programme ‘Competitiveness’

According to the new regulations of the European Union on sound fund management, the implementation of the 3rd CSF requires the creation of a reliable management, monitoring and auditing system. A key component in this system is the creation of a Managing Authority for every Operational Programme, with specific powers that guarantee the efficiency and regularity of Programme management and implementation (Greek Law 2860/2000). Within this context the Ministry of Development has set up the Special Secretariat for Competitiveness to direct and supervise the managing authority of the Operational Programme ‘Competitiveness’. This Programme is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund, the Greek government, and Greek businesses. Among its other duties, the Managing Authority:

• Implements the programme complement (Specific definition of measures)
• Recommends projects and actions for inclusion in the Programme, after evaluation of the proposals submitted, on the basis of eligibility criteria
• Offers all possible support to the final beneficiaries of the Programme
• Monitors and audits implementation of the projects
• Ensures proper provision of information and publicity