Welcome to the West Midlands European Network

West Midlands European Network is the definitive resource for third sector organisations in the West Midlands seeking information and guidance on the European Structural Funds ERDF and ESF.

Since 1996 WMEN has helped build the capacity of third sector organisations, increasing their involvement in the delivery of the West Midlands ERDF/ESF Operational Programme 2007 – 2013.

We have helped third sector organisations apply for project funding to support people who are disadvantaged and disengaged from the labour market.  We have done this by:

• Sharing ERDF/ESF information including:
  Forthcoming procurement rounds
  How to apply for funds
  Updates from regional co-financing organisations.
• Holding events on the potential of European funding, and on project management issues such as auditing, and gathering evidence.
• Signposting organisations to other forms of support, including local consortia where they exist.
• Providing one to one advice sessions with our ERDF/ESF funding experts.
• Helping organisations review their capacity and identify development priorities in relation to European funding, using our specially designed questionnaire.
• Encouraging the third sector to develop and share examples of best practice in project delivery, and to promote innovative practice in the use of EU funds.

This work has contributed to the development and implementation of policies promoting social cohesion, inclusion, gender equality and environmental sustainability. The work has also complemented the delivery of ESF Community Grants funding.

WMEN’s current funding arrangements end on 30th November 2011. As a result the service offered by WMEN is no longer available.  In the meantime, we are looking at alternative ways of supporting the third sector around European funding.  All resources from events, training, and policy seminars held during 2010/11 have been added to the website under the resources section on the main menu.

Click here for general information on the West Midlands European Structural Funds Programme.

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