Launch of the ’Blue book’ Consultation: Your opportunity to shape the future of the EEA and Norway Grants

The EEA and Norway Grants, funded by Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, play a pivotal role in fostering a more equal Europe, both socially and economically, while also strengthening the bonds between these donor countries and the 15 beneficiary EU Member States. With the start of a new funding period for 2021-2028, the launch of a public consultation on the draft ‘Blue book’, an essential document outlining the priorities and programme areas for this funding period, has been announced.

About the EEA and Norway Grants

The EEA and Norway Grants are designed to reduce social and economic disparities in Europe and to enhance cooperation between the donor and beneficiary states. The funding period, governed by the 2021-2028 Financial Mechanism agreement with the EU, allocates €3.268 billion to promote three key thematic priorities: European green transition, democracy, rule of law and human rights, and social inclusion and resilience.

To support these priorities, 15 programme areas and three dedicated funds have been established.

These programme areas and funds aim to address common European challenges, foster innovation, and support impactful projects. Notably, this funding period includes a €183 million contribution for projects addressing challenges arising from the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Furthermore, the EEA and Norway Grants provide a unique opportunity for partnerships between entities from the Beneficiary States and their counterparts in Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway addressing common European challenges. They enhance international experience and networks, support access to new knowledge, expertise, and facilities, foster innovation, and create forums for developing cooperation to be supported with other funding sources.

Download the draft Blue Book here. 

Why your input matters

The draft ‘Blue Book’ outlines the objectives and approaches for each programme area and fund, specifying the areas eligible for support. We believe that those likely to benefit from the Grants, those that are likely to manage the funding and other stakeholders could have valuable input to the ‘Blue Book’. This consultation therefore offers an opportunity for stakeholders to take account of the current draft of the ‘Blue Book’ and provide input on elements prior to its final publication.

By participating in this consultation, you can help shape the direction of the EEA and Norway Grants, ensuring they effectively address the most pressing challenges and opportunities across Europe.

The Blue Book draft can be found on page 4 of the survey. Please click here to access the survey. 

How to participate

A participant can be any private person or organisation that have experience with or interest in the EEA and Norway Grants and their objectives. Participants can be situated in beneficiary, donor or third countries, or they can work transnationally across borders.

The consultation process is straightforward and open to all interested parties until October 18, 2024.

Here’s how you can contribute:

1. Visit the consultation page: Access the draft ‘Blue Book’ and review the programme areas and funds.
2. Provide your feedback: Answer questions about your organisation and submit your comments on the programme areas and funds. You will also have the option to provide general comments. Be advised that we are expecting each organisation to provide one common feedback
3. Spread the word: Share the consultation link with other stakeholders who might have valuable insights.

• Only comments in English will be considered.
• A list of participating organisations and a summary of the consultation results will be published.

Your feedback could directly influence the final version of the ‘Blue Book’, helping to ensure the EEA and Norway Grants deliver impactful and effective funding programmes.

For questions and comments regarding the consultation, please contact bluebookconsultation@efta.int