We are pleased to share the results of a comprehensive study carried out by t33 and PPMI | Part of the Verian Group on the use of Simplified Cost Options (SCOs) and Financing Not Linked to Costs (FNLC) in EU-funded programmes.
The analysis covered two programming periods (2014–2020 and 2021–2027) and examined the use of these simplification measures at both upper level (between the European Commission and Member States) and lower level (between programme authorities and beneficiaries). The project was commissioned by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO).
Data collection was based on two surveys targeting programme authorities and beneficiaries of CPR programmes. One key finding is the significant increase in the use of simplification measures in the current 2021–2027 period compared to the previous one. The study quantified the budgets involved and gathered valuable feedback from programme authorities and beneficiaries on the benefits and barriers of these tools. It also provided concrete recommendations to further promote simplification, reduce administrative burden, and improve the effectiveness of EU fund management.
This work makes an important contribution to ongoing efforts to streamline fund implementation and strengthen result-oriented governance in EU Cohesion Policy and other EU-funded programmes.
The full report is available on the European Commission's website.
