The new Structural Funds programme for 2007-2013 has arrived. The European Union and the Wallonia Region have joined forces to finance regional development projects under the auspices of two objectives: the "Convergence" Objective and the "Regional Competitiveness and Employment" Objective.

Up to 30% of public incentives for economic expansion aimed at big companies.

The "Convergence" objective is centred on the province of Hainaut. With a budget of 1.5 billion euros, it aims to strengthen the convergence of Member States or regions by improving conditions for growth and employment.

The "Regional Competitiveness and Employment" objective, on the other hand, relates to Wallonia (except Hainaut). It has a budget of 1.3 billion euros and is intended to make the regions more attractive and competitive and increase employment figures by anticipating economic and social changes.

European involvement takes the form of two funds, the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) and the ESF (European Social Fund).

Small and medium-sized businesses are in turn eligible for public financial incentives covering up to 50% of their economic expansion projects.

Four priority lines of action

In order to contribute to Community objectives, the Wallonia Government has decided its priorities and strategy in full cohesion with the Marshall Plan and integrated strategic plans covering all four priorities.

These priorities are based on 4 main areas of action: business and job creation; development of human capital, knowledge , know-how and research; social inclusion; and finally balanced and sustainable territorial development.

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