West Midlands European Network is recognised as being the definitive regional resource for Third Sector organisations seeking information and assistance with regard to European Funding in the West Midlands.

High quality guidance and assistance is provided to Third Sector (voluntary organisations, community groups and social enterprises) who wish to access the European Structural Funds ERDF and ESF.

WMEN is currently contracted with Advantage West Midlands to “Enhance the Capacity of the Third Sector to Access European Funding”

West Midlands European Network are now also contracted with the Learning and Skills Council to help deliver the first phase of the West Midlands Regional ESF Technical Assistance Strategy 2007-2010.

WMEN are the lead organisation to coordinate and build the capacity and capability of third sector organisations to have a greater involvement in the delivery of the West Midlands ESF Operational Programme 2007 – 2013. We will work with Third Sector organisations to submit delivery proposals that will engage and support individuals who are disadvantaged and disengaged from the labour market.

Amongst many other things we will:

• Disseminate ESF information and provide third sector organisations from across the region with information on procurement rounds, and ESF updates in conjunction with Sub Regional Groups.
• Deliver awareness raising events throughout the region targeted at third sector organisations that wish to apply to deliver ESF funded activity and encourage them to join local consortia where they exist.
• Provide an initial diagnostic service that will review capacity and capability of third sector organisations.
• Assist in the development of organisational development plans, provide advice and guidance and facilitate the delivery of appropriate training, to strengthen the functional areas of business that require additional technical support and development.
• Ensure that the Third Sector develops and shares examples of best practice on effective delivery and promotes innovative practices in the use of EU funds.

This work will also complement the delivery of ESF Community Grants funding and contribute to the development and implementation of the policies promoting social cohesion, inclusion and environmental sustainability.

Indicative activity will be a follows:

• Up-to-date information on access to ESF
• Updates from the regional Co-financing Organisations
• Information on forthcoming bidding rounds and how to apply for funds
• One-to-one advice from ESF funding experts
• Specific training courses relating to ESF project management
• Support to the region’s Community Grants programme without overlap or duplication of ESF programme delivery
• Communication through media such as newsletters and bulletins

Membership includes:

• the latest information on European Funding via regular emails
• information on forthcoming bidding rounds and how to apply for funds
• free one-to-one advice from our funding experts
• exclusive informative training courses
• European Parliament News updates
• Local Government International Bureau's weekly updates
• Europa Newsletters
• West Midlands in Europe newsletters

For more information on the West Midlands ' European Structural Funds Programme visit http://www.gos.gov.uk/gowm/EuroFund/?a=42496