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ANNUAL IMPLEMENTATION REPORT

2018

Cooperation programme

Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria

in the programme period 2014–2020

1

Annual Implementation Report 2018

Content 1. IDENTIFICATION OF THE ANNUAL/FINAL IMPLEMENTATION REPORT ...................................... 2

2. OVERVIEW OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COOPERATION PROGRAMME (ARTICLE 50(2) OF

REGULATION (EU) NO 1303/2013 AND ARTICLE 14(3)(A) OF REGULATION (EU) No 1299/2013) ......... 2

3. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIORITY AXIS (ARTICLE 50(2) OF REGULATION (EU) NO 1303/2013)

3

4. SYNTHESIS OF THE EVALUATIONS (Article 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) .............. 20

5. ISSUES AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE PROGRAMME AND MEASURES TAKEN

(ARTICLE 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) ............................................................................... 21

6. CITIZEN'S SUMMARY (Article 50(9) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) ................................... 22

7. REPORT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Article 46 of Regulation

(EU) No 1303/2013) .............................................................................................................................. 22

8. WHERE APPROPRIATE, PROGRESS IN PREPARATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF MAJOR

PROJECTS AND JOINT ACTION PLANS (Article 101(h) and Article 111(3) of Regulation (EU) No

1303/2013 and Article 14(3)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013) .................................................... 23

9. ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COOPERATION PROGRAMME (Article 50(4) of

Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 14(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013) ......................... 26

10. OBLIGATORY INFORMATION AND ASSESSMENT ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 14(4), Subparagraph

1 (a) and (b), of REGULATION (EU) No 1299/2013 ............................................................................... 30

11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION WHICH MAY BE ADDED DEPENDING ON THE CONTENT AND

OBJECTIVES OF THE COOPERATION PROGRAMME (Article 14(4), subparagraph 2 (a), (b), (c) and (f), of

REGULATION (EU) No 1299/2013) ........................................................................................................ 32

12. Financial information at priority axis and programme level (Articles 21(2) and 22(7) of Regulation

(EU) No 1303/2013) .............................................................................................................................. 34

13. SMART, SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH .......................................................................... 35

14. ISSUES AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE PROGRAMME AND MEASURES TAKEN –

PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK (Article 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) ................................ 35

2


1. IDENTIFICATION OF THE ANNUAL/FINAL IMPLEMENTATION REPORT

CCI 2014TC16RFCB054

Title Cooperation programme Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria

Version 1.0

Reporting year 2018

Date of approval of the report by the Monitoring Committee

17 June 2019

Date of approval of the report by the European Commission

8 August 2019

2. OVERVIEW OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COOPERATION PROGRAMME (ARTICLE 50(2) OF REGULATION (EU) NO 1303/2013 AND ARTICLE 14(3)(A) OF REGULATION (EU) No 1299/2013) Key information on the implementation of the cooperation programme for the year concerned, including

on financial instruments, with relation to the financial and indicator data.

This is the forth Annual Implementation Report (AIR) for the Cooperation Programme Interreg V-A Slovenia-

Austria for the period 2014-2020. It reports on the implementation of the programme during the calendar

year 2018. The report was prepared by the Government Office for Development and European Cohesion

Policy (GODC), acting as the Managing Authority (MA) of the programme in cooperation with the Joint

secretariat (JS) and the programme partners. The Monitoring Committee (MC) approved the AIR 2018 within

the 10th Written procedure on17 June 2019.

In 2018, the implementation of the programme ran very actively with approving 18 additional projects,

sending four payment requests to the European Commission (EC), closing the 4th deadline for submission of

project applications, etc. The MA and JS met once with the programme partners (National/Regional

Authorities (NAs/RAs), Certifying Authority (CA), First Level Control (FLC)) at the Bilateral working group

(BWG) meeting, namely on 28 March 2018 in Maribor to discuss topics related to the programme

implementation.

On 6 and 7 March 2018, the MC members met at their 5th meeting in order to decide on the project

applications received within the 3rd deadline for submission. 18 projects (6 projects in the frame of priority

axis 1, 6 project in the frame of priority axis 2, and 6 projects in the frame of priority axis 3) in the amount

of 18.511.951,90 EUR ERDF funds were approved in 2018 for co-financing. For 17 out of 18 projects also

the Subsidy contract for the co-financing with funds from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)

has been signed in 2018, namely on 26 April in Vitanje and on 7 June in Rakičan. For the beneficiaries of

these projects, the workshop on reporting for the projects approved in the frame of the 3rd deadline was

held on 18 September 2018 in Leibnitz. The MC met also on 5 December 2018, at the 6th MC meeting to

discuss topics related to the Open call, approved the Communication plan 2019, etc.

Within the 4th deadline for the submission of projects, which closed on 28 November 2018, one workshop

intended for potential applicants was carried out on 19 September 2018 in Leibnitz. In the frame of the

workshop, the JS briefly presented the participants the Cooperation Programme, information concerning

the Open Call, presented the Rules on the eligibility of the expenditure, the requirements concerning

information and communication, the annexes to the application form and the electronic Monitoring System

(eMS), in which applicants enter and submit their project applications. The second part of the workshop was

dedicated to the content-wise discussion on generation of the project ideas, focusing especially to the

underrepresented topics in connection with the programme indicators (such as biodiversity). The

participants were divided into 3 groups (according to the programme priority axes) which were facilitated

by representatives of JS and NA/RAs.

3


The workshop was attended by more than 60 participants, which shows that although the available funds

were very limited, there was still a great interest of potential applicants.

Other information and publicity measures

The MA and JS hosted representatives of the executive bodies of the IPA cross-border cooperation

programme Kosovo-Macedonia 2014-2020, on 2 March 2018, in the frame of a study visit. In July 2018, the

MA and JS organized an international training for the use of the Arachne Risk Assessment Tool for

representatives of national control units from Hungary, Austria, Croatia and Slovenia and an international

exchange of experiences attended by representatives of the MAs and JSs of the cooperation programmes

Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria, Slovenia-Croatia, Slovenia-Hungary, Austria-Hungary and Hungary-Croatia

took place in Cogetinci (Cerkvenjak), Slovenia.

The major annual event of the programme was carried out on 21 September in the frame of the European

Cooperation Day (EC Day) 2018. Slovenia and Austria have in the frame of their cooperation already

implemented a number of successful cross-border projects, which constitute the identity of the border

region. Three of them have been introduced to the participants in the frame of the event »Experiencing the

cross-border Geopark« which was organized by the programme in cooperation with the programme partner

Amt der Kärntner Landesregierung and the project partner Geopark Karavanke/Karawanken. The event was

organised as a cross-border event, constisting of a visit to the Mezica mine and the Petzen mountain. A

group of about 360 participants from Slovenia and Austria had the chance to visit parts of the programme

area and to have a closer look at projects in implementation.

In the frame of the programme's website, 35 news on activities, events and relevant information were

published in 2018. These were, in addition, distributed as e-newsletters. For spreading news about the

programme, also the programme's Facebook page was used.

Reimbursement of funds

By the end of 2018, Subsidy contracts in the amount of 41.887.836,40 EUR ERDF funds were signed for the

40 projects, which represents 93 % of the funds available for projects (excluding the Technical Assistance

(TA) projects, which amount to 3 mio EUR ERDF funds).

In relation to the financial data 10,129,022.77 EUR total funds were declared by beneficiaries to the MA. In

April 2018, the third payment request was sent to the EC in the amount of 2,472,308.09 EUR ERDF. The

fourth payment request was sent in July 2018 in the amount of 2,181,437.94 EUR ERDF, the fifth in

November 2018 in the amount of 2,042,196.88 EUR ERDF and the sixth in December 2018 in the amount of

191,548.01 EUR ERDF. Two projects were finished until the submission of the AIR 2018, all others are still in

implementation, therefore, in relation to the indicator data, the progress can mostly be measured only on

the level of the selected projects (see table 2).

3. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRIORITY AXIS (ARTICLE 50(2) OF REGULATION (EU) NO 1303/2013)

3.1. Overview of the implementation

ID Priority axis Key information on the implementation of the priority axis with reference to key developments, significant problems and steps taken to address these problems

A.1 1. Strengthening cross- border Competitiveness,

In 2018, the final decision on the project applications received in the frame of the 3rd deadline for submission was reached. 6 projects were approved for implementation under Priority axis (PA) 1, namely Poly Metal, Connect SME Plus, START CIRCLES, GO 2 BENELUX AND SCANDINAVIA, FIREEXPERT, REHA 2030. Due

4


Research and Innovation

to the amount of all funds available in the frame of PA 1, in connection to the programme specific indicators that still have to be reached, the MC members decided to publish the recommendation on the programme’s website that project applications for this PA should not exceed 0,5 Mio. EUR ERDF funds. Based on the evaluation of the past deadlines, also the information that not all planned programme output indicators, referring to the promotion of cooperation of research institutions and enterprises, research projects and projects on internationalisation have been reached yet was published. Within the 3rd deadline of the Open Call in 2018, 5 projects (for the project REHA 2030 the Subsidy contract was signed in 2019) started with the implementation under this priority axis, covering the Investment priority 1b. The contracted ERDF amount for those five projects is 3,399,391.88 EUR. Altogether, by the end of 2018, 16 projects were contracted in this PA in the amount of 13,219,684.31 EUR ERDF, which is 31.55% of all contracted projects. This shows the high interest of projects in covering the cross-border competitiveness, research and innovation content. On 28 November 2018, the 4th deadline closed. 21 project applications were received, out of which 7 belonged to PA 1. The final decision on those projects has not been taken by the end of 2018. At this stage, no significant problems have been identified within PA 1.

A.2 2. Protecting the Environment and Promoting Resource Efficiency

Six projects, covering the Investment priority 6c and 6f, were approved within PA 2 in 2018, namely the projects Castle Road, E-CARRIAGE 4CBST, NaKult, GoMURra, SMART Tourist, NatureGame in the amount of 8,807,619.77 EUR ERDF. Altogether, by the end of 2018, 12 projects were contracted in this PA in the amount of 16,544,481.67 EUR ERDF, which is 39.49 % of all contracted projects. Based on the evaluation of the past deadlines for the submission of project applications, it was determined that within PA 2, the values of the indicators related to the topics of bio- and geodiversity as well as projects involving research institutions in the field of management and utilization of water resources have not been reached yet, therefore, this information was published on the programme website and stressed at the workshop for potential applicants in the frame of the 4th deadline for submission. To promote these topics and to further support the applicants in preparing project applications being in line with the programme requirements, we have also emphasized this within individual advisory meetings with the applicants. On 28 November 2018, the 4th deadline closed. 21 projects were received, out of which 6 belonged to PA 2. The final decision on those projects has not been taken by the end of 2018. At this stage, no significant problems have been identified in the implementation of the PA 2.

A.3 3. Enhancing Institutional Capacity and an Efficient Public Administration

Six projects were approved within PA3 in 2018 and started with the implementation, covering the Investment priority 11b, namely CROSSRISK, Innovative Location, INVOLVED, EUREVITA, COOP4HEALTHCARE, INNOVET. The contracted ERDF amount for those six projects is 6,307,940.25 EUR. Altogether, by the end of 2018, 12 projects were contracted in this PA in the amount of 12,123,670.36 EUR ERDF, which is 28.94 % of all contracted projects. Based on the evaluation of the 1st and 2nd deadline for the submission of project applications, it was determined that within PA 3, the values of the indicators related to risk management and improving public services are still missing, therefore, this information was published on the programme website and stressed at the workshop for potential applicants in the frame of the 3rd deadline for submission. Due to the measures taken in 2017 (emphasizing specific topics at workshops and individual advisory meetings), project applications received within the 3rd deadline were administratively and qualitatively much better prepared than project applications received in the first two deadlines. On 28 November 2018, the 4th deadline closed. 21 projects were received, out of which 8 belong to PA 3. The final decision on those projects has not been taken by the end of 2018. At this stage, no significant problems have been identified in the implementation of the PA 3.

5


A.4 4. Technical assistance

In 2018, the following activities were implemented within the TA projects: - management and monitoring of the programme - on the spot checks (25) and sample site visits (8) were carried out - organisation of two MC meetings - two workshops, one for potential applicants and the other for reporting

were carried out on 18 and 19 September 2018 (Leibnitz, Austria) - on 2 March 2018, the MA hosted representatives of the CB CP Kosovo-

Macedonia 2014-2020, carried out under the IPA, in the frame of a study visit

- one BWG meeting to discuss topics related to the programme implementation was organised on 28 March 2018 in Maribor, Slovenia

- on 12 July 2018, an international exchange of experiences attended by representatives of the MAs and JSs of the CPs Interreg V-A SI-AT, SI-HR, SI-HU, AT-HU and HU-HR took place in Cogetinci, Slovenia

- on 4 July 2018, the MA/JS organized an international training for the use of the Arachne Risk Assessment Tool for representatives of national control units from Hungary, Austria, Croatia and Slovenia

- organisation of the annual event “Experiencing the cross-border Geopark” on 21 September 2018, under the auspices of the EC Day initiative in cooperation with the AKL and the project partner Geopark Karavanke/Karawanken.

- advising of potential applicants and face-to-face meetings with LPs/PPs - assessment of project applications (3rd deadline) - update of programme documents (DCMS, IMB) - 17 ERDF Subsidy contracts have been prepared and signed - 718,895.88 EUR ERDF (in total 1,160,331.81) have been certified to EC - the programme website has been updated - etc.

At this stage, no significant problems have been identified in the implementation of the TA.

6

3.2. Common and programme specific indicators (Article 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013)

Data for common and programme-specific indicators by investment priority transmitted using the tables 1 to 2 below.

TABLE 1: Result indicators (by priority axis and specific objective); applies also to technical assistance priority axis

Automatic from SFC ANNUAL VALUE

ID Indicator Measurement Unit

Baseline Value

Baseline Year

Target Value (2023) 2

01

4

20

15

20

16

20

17

20

18

20

19

20

20

20

21

20

22

20

23

Observations (if necessary)

1b.1 R&D Intensity percentage

3.1

%

20

11

3.3

%

/ 3.1

3.1

3.1

2.5

7

Frequency of reporting 2018, 2020, 2023¸ Value in 2018 refers to the year of 2016 since the data for the years of 2017 and/or 2018 is not available for Slovenia. According to the calculation performed in the evaluation the correct baseline value (for 2011) is 2.55% and not 3.1%.

7

1b.2 Enterprises with innovation cooperation with cooperation partners from Europe

Number

86

0

20

12

90

3

/

86

0

86

0

86

0

10

07

Frequency of reporting 2018, 2020, 2023

1b.3 Number of exporting companies

Number

17

,69

5

20

12

18

,22

0

/

17

,69

5

17

,69

5

17

,69

5

66

,92

2

Frequency of reporting 2018, 2020, 2023 Values refer for both countries on national level.

6c Overnight stays

Number 3

3,1

27

,30

2

20

13

36

,12

4,8

69

/

33

,12

7,3

02

33

,12

7,3

02

33

,12

7,3

02

34

,73

9,0

37


6f Length of the cross-border river bodies with unsatisfactory water quality status

Kilometres

22

.5

20

14

15

/

22

.5

22

.5

22

.5

22

.5


8

11b.1 Level of sustainable institutional cooperation in the field of energy and risk management or health and social cohesion in the programme area

Scale

3,5

4

20

15

3,8

9

/

3.5

4

3.5

4

3.5

4

3.0

2

Frequency of reporting 2018, 2020, 2023 The values for indicators 11b.1 and 11b.2 were obtained through an anonymous e-survey that was disseminated by the JS to 102 institutions (for indicator 11b.1) and 635 municipalities (for indicator 11b.2). The negative trend can be explained in several ways. One of the reasons may be connected with the people who filled out the survey in 2015 and in 2019. Many reasons (willingness to participate, change of contact address, etc.) could have resulted in the surveys not being filled out by the same persons in 2015 and 2019. Furthermore, there

9

are numerous other factors that may influence the responses, e.g. workplace of the person addressed, their current mood (in 2015, the atmosphere was optimistic due to more optimistic economic trends and the start of a new programme period), etc.

11b.2 Level of cross-border cooperation among municipalities and citizens in the programme area

Scale 2

,41

20

15

2,6

5

/

2.4

1

2.4

1

2.4

1

2.3

6

Frequency of reporting 2018, 2020, 2023 See the explanantion in 11b.1

10

TABLE 2: Common and programme specific output indicators (by priority axis, investment priority); applies also to technical assistance priority axes).

S – Selected operations F – Fully implemented operations*

ID Indicator (name of indicator)

Measurement unit

Target value (2023)

CUMULATIVE VALUE

Observations

(if necessary)

20

14

20

15

20

16

20

17

20

18

20

19

20

20

20

21

20

22

20

23

S

CO01 Number of enterprises receiving support

Enterprises

15 0 0 6 11 22

F 2

Projects regioWIN and SMART PRODUCTION were concluded till the submission of AIR 2018

S

CO02 Number of enterprises receiving grants

Enterprises

15 0 0 6 11 22

F 2


S

CO04 Number of enterprises receiving non-financial support

Enterprises

30 0 0 184 781 1005

F 129


S

CO26 Number of enterprises cooperating with research institutions

Enterprises

20 0 0 3 7 19

F 1

Project SMART PRODUCTION was concluded till the submission of AIR 2018

S

CO29

Number of enterprises supported to introduce new to the firm products

Enterprises

5 0 0 4 6 13

F

S 1b.1

Number of joint CB R&D projects

Number 8 0 0 1 4 7

F

S 1b.3 Number 7 0 0 2 4 6

11

F Number of joint CB internationalization projects involving SMEs

1 Project regioWIN was concluded till the submission of AIR 2018

S 6c.1

Number of newly developed and/or improved joint CB tourist products1

Number 16 0 0 15 18 27

Project 321go already reported on one newly developed and/or improved joit CB tourist products. The plan in the approved projects is much higher than the set programme target value, therefore this indicator is expected to be strongly exceeded.

F

S 6c.2

Number of projects targeting geodiversity or biodiversity

Number 3 0 0 0 0 2

In 2019 one additional project targeting biodiversity has been approved, therefore this indicator is achived (3) till the submission of AIR.

F

S 6c.3 Number of sustainable tourism related services

Number 6 0 0 9 10 15

The plan in the approved projects is much higher than the set programme target value, therefore this indicator is expected to be strongly exceeded.

1 A tourist product can be defined as an individual service and/or good, which is used by a tourist on the way and the stay outside his permanent place of residence. A set of such set products can be named as an integral tourist

product. For the purposes of the Cooperation Programme Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria the definition can be specified in terms of sustainable tourism and defined as: ‘Tourism that takes full account of its current and future

economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities’. Thus, sustainable tourism should: 1. Make optimal use of environmental resources that

constitute a key element in tourism development, maintaining essential ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage. 2. Respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities, conserve their built and living

cultural heritage and traditional values, and contribute to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance. 3. Ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders that are fairly

distributed, including stable employment and income-earning opportunities and social services to host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation. Reference: Making Tourism More Sustainable - A Guide for Policy

Makers, UNEP and UNWTO, 2005, p.11-12. Natural heritage comprises bio- and geo-diversity.

12

F

S CO42

Research institutions participating in CB research projects

Organisations

4 0 0 2 2 2

F

S

6f.1

Number of jointly developed water management strategies

Number

1 0 0 1 1 1

F

S

6f.2

Number of joint modelling, monitoring and forecasting studies and research works

Number

1 0 0 7 7 9

F

S

6f.3

Number of joint CB flood determination, protection and control measures

Number

1 0 0 0 0 2

F

S 11b.1

Number of institutions and/or organisations participating in joint CB initiatives

Number

100 0 0 35 141 247

Three projects in implementation already reported on 21 institutions and/or organisations that were participating in joint CB initiatives. The plan in the approved projects is much higher than the set programme target value, therefore this indicator is expected to be strongly exceeded.

F

S 11b.2

Number of people participating in joint training schemes and programmes

Number 200 0 0 222 972 1392

Project L2P-2020Plus which is still in implementation already reported on 51 people participating in joint training schemes and

13

programmes. The plan in the approved projects is much higher than the set programme target value, therefore this indicator is expected to be strongly exceeded.

F

S 11b.3

Number of joint CB pilot and demonstration projects

Number 5 0 0 7 26 68

Project L2P-2020Plus which is still in implementation already reported on 1 completed joint CB pilot and demonstration project. The plan in the approved projects is much higher than the set programme target value, therefore this indicator is expected to be strongly exceeded.

F

S 11b.4

Population covered by improved public services

Number

200,000

0 0 0 900 412,750

The plan in the approved projects is much higher than the set programme target value, therefore this indicator is expected to be strongly exceeded.

F

S

TH.1

Number of joint CB projects successfully implemented and concluded

Number

4 0 7 7 7 7

F 4 0 7 0 0 0

S TH.2

Number of joint CB informational and publicity events

Number 10 0 10 10 10 10

F 1 2 3 4 5

14

S

TH.3

Number of employees (FTEs) whose salaries are co-financed by the Technical Assistance

Number

10 0 10 10 10 10

F 0 7.7 11.1

11.05 11.05

The number of FTEs already employed and co-financed by the Technical Assistance.

S

TH.4

Information, consultation and training measures for applicants and beneficiaries on the project generation

Number

8 0 8 8 8 8

F 0 0 4 5 6

S TH.5

Number of trainings for the beneficiaries, programme structures

Number 10 0 10 10 10 10

F 0 0 2 6 12

S

TH.6 The number of visitors of the programme website

Number

10,000 10,000 10,000

10,000

10,000 10,000

F 0 2,384

19,625

31,131 44,042

* S - Selected operations [forecast provided by beneficiaries]

F - Fully implemented operations [actual achievement]

3.3 Milestones and targets defined in the performance framework (Article 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) – submitted in annual implementation reports from 2017 onwards

Reporting on financial indicators, key implementation steps, output and result indicators to act as milestones and targets for the performance framework (submitted starting

with the report in 2017).

TABLE 3: Information on the milestones and targets defined in the performance framework

15

Pri

ori

ty A

xis

Ind

icat

or

Typ

e (

Ke

y

imp

lem

en

tati

on

ste

p, f

inan

cia

l,

ou

tpu

t o

r, w

he

re

app

rop

riat

e r

esu

lt

ind

icat

or)

ID

Ind

icat

or

or

key

imp

lem

en

tati

on

ste

p

Me

asu

rem

en

t u

nit

,

wh

ere

ap

pro

pri

ate

Mile

sto

ne

fo

r 2

01

8

Fin

al t

arge

t (2

02

3)

20

14

20

15

20

16

20

17

20

18

20

19

20

20

20

21

20

22

20

23

Ob

serv

atio

ns

(if

ne

cess

ary)

1 Financial indicator

A.1.1

Payments: Certified and declared to the EC

Nu

mb

er

2,1

21

,00

8.4

0

17

,67

5,0

70

.00

0

0

0

66

4,7

83

.23

3,4

72

,12

5.1

3

Payments for 19 reports of the LPs were certified and declared to the EC in the year 2018. Till the submission of AIR 2018 two additional payment requests were sent to EC including expenditures occured in 2018, therefore altogether 5,108,027.73 total expenditure were cerified and declaired to EC.

1 Output CO01

Number of enterprises receiving support (CI)

Ente

rpri

ses

2

15

0

0

0

0

2

Projects regioWIN and SMART PRODUCTION, in which two enterprises were included, finished the implementation till the submission of AIR 2018. Within the approved projects there are altogether 22 enterprises receiving support.


A.2.1


Nu

mb

er

2,6

86

,29

9.0

7

20

,66

3,8

39

.00

0

0

0

51

1,9

29

.10

3,6

81

,54

9.1

7


2 Output indicator A.2.2

Number of jointly developed water management strategies

Nu

mb

er

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

The value will be reported after the completion of projects covering this indicator.

16

2 Key implementation step

A.2.3

Number of operations developing water management strategies (approved operations) N

um

ber

1

1

0

0

1

1

1

Within the approved projects there is one project developing water management strategies.


Number of newly developed and/or improved joint CB tourist products

Nu

mb

er

0

16

0

0

0

0

0

Within the approved projects there are 27 joint CB tourist products being newly developed and/or improved. The value will be reported after the completion of projects covering this indicator.

2 Key implementation step

A.2.5

Number of operations developing newly and/or jointly approved CB tourist products (approved operations) N

um

ber

2

4

0

0

4

5

10


A.3.1


Nu

mb

er

1,7

50

,62

8.2

8

14

,58

8,5

69

.00

0

0

0

21

4,0

03

.13

1,7

83

,44

6.6

8



Number of institutions and/or organisations participating in joint CB initiatives

Nu

mb

er

5

10

0

0

0

0

0

21

Within the projects approved there are 247 institutions and/or organisations participating in joint CB initiatives. Three projects in implementation already reported on 21 institutions and/or organisations that were participating in joint CB initiatives.

17

3.4. Financial data (Article 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013)

TABLE 4: Financial information at priority axis and programme level as set out in Table 1 of Annex II to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1011/20142 [Model

for transmission of financial data]3 and table 16 of model for cooperation programmes under the European territorial cooperation goal

Where applicable, the use of any contribution from third countries participating in the cooperation programme should be provided (for example IPA and ENI, Norway,

Switzerland)

/

Priority Axis

Fund Calculation basis

Total funding Co-financing rate

Total eligible cost of operations selected for support

Proportion of the total allocation covered with selected operations

Public eligible cost of operations selected for support

Total eligible expenditure declared by beneficiaries to the managing authority

Proportion of the total allocation covered by eligible expenditure declared by beneficiaries

Nu

mb

er

of

op

era

tio

ns

sele

cte

d

Tota

l elig

ible

exp

en

dit

ure

incu

rre

d b

y

be

ne

fici

arie

s an

d

pai

d b

y 3

1/1

2/2

01

8

and

ce

rtif

ied

to

EC

A.1 ERDF Total 17,675,070.00 85.00% 15,638,607.24 88.48% 14,696,006.13 3,476,111.73 19.67% 16 3,472,125.13

A.2 ERDF Total 20,663,839.00 85.00% 19,637,153.85 95.03% 18,861,544.18 3,681,549.63 17.82% 12 3,681,549.17

A.3 ERDF Total 14,588,569.00 85.00% 14,263,141.83 97.77% 13,950,148.91 1,783,446.88 12.22% 12 1,783,446.68

B.1 ERDF Total 4,285,715.00 70.00% 4,740,884.35 110.62% 4,740,884.35 1,187,914.53 27.72% 7 1,160,331.81

Total ERDF 57,213,193.00 83.88% 54,279,787.27 94.87% 52,248,583.57 10,129,022.77 17.70% 47 10,097,452.79

2 OJ L 286, 30.9.2014, p. 1. 3 Structured data required for the report on YEI which is to be submitted in April 2015 in accordance with Article 19(3) and Annex II of Regulation (EU) No 1304/2013.

18

TABLE 5: Breakdown of the cumulative financial data by category of intervention (Article 112(1) and (2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 5

of Regulation (EU) No 1304/2013) as set out in Table 2 of Annex II to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1011/2014 [Model for transmission of financial data] and

tables 6-9 of Model for cooperation programmes

Priority axis

Fund Intervention field

Form of finance

Territorial dimension

Territorial delivery

mechanism

Thematic objective

dimension

Economic dimension

Location dimension

Total eligible cost of operations selected

for support (€)

Public eligible cost of operations selected

for support (€)

The total eligible expenditure declared by beneficiaries to

the managing authority

Nr. of operations

selected

A.1 ERDF 58 1 1 7 1 24 AT212 581,360.62 562,360.56 0.00 1

A.1 ERDF 60 1 1 7 1 6 SI013 1,151,813.85 1,085,112.00 592,411.73 1

A.1 ERDF 60 1 2 7 1 24 SI014 621,343.53 546,822.95 0.00 1

A.1 ERDF 62 1 1 7 1 22 AT221 811,955.00 759,003.56 147,252.46 1

A.1 ERDF 62 1 1 7 1 24 SI12 926,308.66 890,567.63 347,164.56 1

A.1 ERDF 62 1 1 7 1 24 SI21 807,105.00 749,367.74 0.00 1

A.1 ERDF 62 1 1 7 1 24 SI023 1,765,009.00 1,703,284.00 85,683.99 1

A.1 ERDF 62 1 2 7 1 24 AT224 852,058.55 852,058.55 450,123,83 1

A.1 ERDF 63 1 1 7 1 14 AT221 841,191.80 709,015.65 65,684.55 1

A.1 ERDF 63 1 1 7 1 24 AT221 1,408,309.67 1,354,631.90 154,218.79 1

A.1 ERDF 63 1 1 7 1 24 SI011 588,000.40 574,708.90 0.00 1

A.1 ERDF 63 1 2 7 1 14 AT226 1,226,369.21 1,071,450.84 389,723.79 1

A.1 ERDF 67 1 1 7 1 14 AT221 850,755.00 792,950.25 448,746.21 1

A.1 ERDF 67 1 1 7 1 24 SI012 1,181,718.21 1,126,885.71 205,252.43 1

A.1 ERDF 67 1 2 7 1 7 SI022 624,953.00 577,706.15 0.00 1

A.1 ERDF 67 1 3 7 1 24 SI011 1,397,355.74 1,340,079.74 589,849.39 1

A.2 ERDF 21 1 3 7 6 11 AT221 1,791,158.09 1,760,344.54 916,806.46 1

A.2 ERDF 21 1 3 7 6 24 SI021 2,849,699.62 2,849,699.62 0.00 1

A.2 ERDF 85 1 3 7 6 15 AT221 1,320,853.13 1,320,853.13 597,428.34 1

A.2 ERDF 91 1 3 7 6 15 AT213 2,376,091.34 2,087,787.01 0.00 1

A.2 ERDF 91 1 3 7 6 15 AT224 1,883655.01 1,798,908.01 746,851.39 1

A.2 ERDF 91 1 3 7 6 15 SI022 2,464,908.21 2,368,365.40 585,811.32 1

A.2 ERDF 93 1 3 7 6 15 SI021 823,446.29 821,196.30 297,517.86 1

A.2 ERDF 94 1 2 7 6 15 AT113 884,743.75 795,954.67 537,404.26 1

A.2 ERDF 94 1 2 7 6 15 SI011 1,176,076.00 1,176,076.00 0.00 1

A.2 ERDF 95 1 3 7 6 15 AT213 1,910,979.51 1,882,231.48 0.00 1

A.2 ERDF 95 1 3 7 6 15 SI011 1,175,816.91 1,109,288.54 0.00 1

A.2 ERDF 95 1 3 7 6 15 SI022 979,725.99 890,839.48 0.00 1

A.3 ERDF 13 1 1 7 1 22 AT211 1,421,261.01 1,388,190.66 496,207.27 1

A.3 ERDF 87 1 2 7 11 24 AT221 1,572,136.19 1,572,136.19 0.00 1

A.3 ERDF 96 1 1 7 11 21 SI021 839,934.60 839,934.60 86,812.55 1

19

A.3 ERDF 96 1 3 7 11 24 SI213 723,486.66 704,725.24 310,237.94 1

A.3 ERDF 108 1 1 7 11 21 AT211 756,197.44 695,410.17 0.00 1

A.3 ERDF 112 1 1 7 11 20 AT212 958,443.26 903,161.18 0.00 1

A.3 ERDF 112 1 1 7 11 21 AT225 1,183,400.00 1,116,140.00 412,237.22 1

A.3 ERDF 118 1 1 7 11 19 AT113 2,672,330.62 2,594,822.82 0.00 2

A.3 ERDF 118 1 2 7 11 19 AT224 786,281.15 785,957.15 418,411.04 1

A.3 ERDF 119 1 2 7 11 15 AT224 1,891,201.50 1,891,201.50 59,540.86 1

A.3 ERDF 119 1 2 7 11 18 AT224 1,458,469.40 1,458,469.40 0.00 1

B.1 ERDF 121 1 7 7 18 AT112 184,792.94 184,792.94 98,854.21 1

B.1 ERDF 121 1 7 7 18 AT211 313,632.62 313,632.62 54,175.79 1

B.1 ERDF 121 1 7 7 18 AT221 554,378.82 554,378.82 153,629.67 1

B.1 ERDF 121 1 7 7 18 SI017 350,378.00 350,378.00 74,828.43 1

B.1 ERDF 121 1 7 7 18 SI021 3,337,701.97 3,337,701.97 806,426.43 3

TABLE 6: Cumulative cost of all or part of an operation implemented outside the Union part of the programme area

1 2 3 4 5

The amount of ERDF support* envisaged to be used for all or part of an operation implemented outside the Union part of the programme area based on selected operations (EUR)

Share of the total financial allocation to all or part of an operation located outside the Union part of the programme area (%) (column 2/total amount allocated to the support from the ERDF at programme level *100)

Eligible expenditure of ERDF support incurred in all or part of an operation implemented outside the Union part of the programme area declared by the beneficiary to the managing authority (EUR)

Share of the total financial allocation to all or part of an operation located outside the Union part of the programme area (%) (column 4/total amount allocated to the support from the ERDF at programme level *100)

All or part of an operation outside the Union part of the programme area4

Not applicable for CP Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria.




* ERDF support is fixed in the Commission decision on the respective cooperation programme.

4 In accordance with and subject to ceilings set out Article 20 of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013.


20

4. SYNTHESIS OF THE EVALUATIONS (Article 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) Synthesis of the findings of all evaluations of the programme that have become available during the

previous financial year, including the name and reference period of the evaluation reports used.

In July 2017 the Implementing Evaluation I of the Cooperation Programme Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria

was performed by an external evaluator. The purpose of the evaluation was to assess the efficiency and

effectiveness of the programme implementation with a focus on processing the 1st and 2nd deadline of the

open call for proposals. The main goal was to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the programme

structures and programme procedures, the achievement of the foreseen simplification and harmonization,

the progress of the programme towards achieving the targets of the specific objectives and the progress in

implementing the communication strategy and the set objectives.

The analysis was mainly based on monitoring data provided by the JS, data from the application forms (in

the eMS) and data available on the programme website. In addition, data was collected through a survey

and through interviews. The survey was carried out with Lead Partners who applied in the frame of the 1st

and 2nd deadline of the open call. Project partners cooperating in projects approved in the 1st deadline have

reported for the first time. Therefore, the scope of the analysis was extended to collect feedback also from

the representatives of the FLCs. The assessment of the progress towards the achievement of the

programme specific objectives was made on the basis of the expected contributions of the approved

projects, since the implementation was still in the kick-off phase.

In general, the programme structures are fairly effective with room for improvement of cooperation at the

programme level. Personnel within all analysed programme bodies was appointed and has sound

knowledge and competence enriched with experience from previous programme periods and in some cases

also from other cross-border cooperation programmes. Rules and procedures concerning the work of

programme bodies in the assessment and selection process were established and followed. At the time

the evaluation was carried out, bottlenecks existed within the FLC Styria due to a lack of personnel. IT

support regarding the eMS did not seem sufficient. With more projects in implementation and almost

identical deadlines for submission of the project partner progress reports in other ETC programmes, also

some additional bottlenecks could emerge in the future (example FLC Slovenia). At programme level,

differences between the Austrian and Slovenian side exist in approaches and views to cooperation and

expectations. The different views have so far not been sufficiently addressed. This could reduce the overall

effectiveness of cooperation at the programme level and affect negatively the quality of support provided

to the project level.

The established programme procedures allowed for processing the first two deadlines of the open call in a

fairly effective and efficient manner. The programme delivery mechanisms aiming at simplification,

harmonisation and increased efficiency of implementation have reduced user friendliness for the

applicants/beneficiaries, mainly due to the strict administrative and eligibility check. The high level of

rejections due to formal reasons limited the range of projects that could have been assessed for their

quality and discussed by the MC. This was in particular notable under specific objectives (SOs), where only

a few applications were received. An example is priority axis 2 - 6f, where so far the only project that applied

and that was approved in the 1st deadline is in implementation, whereas both applied in the 2nd deadline

did not pass the administrative and eligibility check. Outcomes of certain procedures directly affect the

processing of the following deadlines and, therefore, it is too early to assess the overall efficiency of the

programme.

The eMS is one of the harmonisation tools that has a potential to become an effective and efficient solution

for the overall programme management. The current performance of the system has not achieved its

optimal level yet.

The programme uses the eMS and HIT tools and has potential to harmonise the implementation with other

cross-border cooperation programmes, however, the extent of harmonisation was not possible to assess

in the frame of the evaluation. The envisaged use of simplified cost options is likely to be partially achieved.

The flat rate for office and administrative costs contributes the most to the simplification. Considering the


21

relatively high share of staff costs in the overall project budgets, the actual possibilities for the use of flat

rates for staff costs are moderate.

A tender for the following evaluations of the programme was published on the date of 13 Febuary 2019. A

contract with the external consultancy consortium was signed on 29 March 2019. The subject of the

contract are three evaluations of the CP Interreg Slovenia-Austria 2014-2020: evaluation of efficiency and

effectiveness (Implementing Evaluation II), evaluation of the programme impact I and evaluation of

programme impact II. The due date for the final report of the evaluation of efficiency and effectiveness is

in July 2019, whereas the following evaluations will be available in the first half of the year 2020 (impact I)

and the second half of 2022 (impact II) respectively.

By the deadline for the submission of the AIR 2018, the final evaluation report regarding the efficiency and

effectiveness of the programme was not ready yet, therefore, only some preliminary findings are available

and are included in this AIR.

According to the preliminary findings of the implementing evaluation II, the implementation of the majority

of projects is still in the early phase and the actual progress could not be assessed yet. Overall, the

programme is progressing well in all priority axes. Expected contributions show that some targets are likely

to be exceeded by several times and could have been underestimated during the programming.

PA 1: The 17 projects in implementation are well distributed in terms of specific objectives they address.

The expected contributions to the achievement of the programme output indicators are well above the

targets set (indicator CO04-number of enterprises receiving support).

PA 2: The expected contributions of the 13 approved projects (including the project BANAP approved in

2019) to programme indicator targets seem promising as most of them are likely to be exceeded. The

Cooperation Programme foresees only one result indicator – overnight stays, which is not likely to capture

all envisaged programme results.

PA 3: The 13 projects approved (including the project Co_Operation approved in 2019) are expected to

exceed all targets of output indicators.

PA 4: The achievement of targets for the TA projects is progressing well. Except for the lack of staff at some

structures (especially FLCs), all programme structures have adequate technical and staff capacities to

perform their designated duties. Programme management bodies are providing adequate informative

support to potential and actual beneficiaries. In the project content assessment phase, more support

regarding regional/national specifics should be considered, however, this is not foreseen in this programme

period according to the programme rules. It has been identified that more cooperation among similar

programme structures on each side of the border would be welcome.

It is identified that the programme structures should intensify mutual cooperation. In the next programme

period, content assessment of project application should be reorganised in a way that more field and

regional specific expert support is provided to the JS.

In the frame of the evaluation, also the progress in implementing the communication strategy was

assessed. The programme website, which is the key communication tool, has in line with the

communication phases so far focused on informing and supporting the applicants and beneficiaries. This

has been achieved and is also reflected in the high percentage of users according to the survey. Targets

regarding the website visits have been underestimated. The challenge is how to promote the website to be

used by more users from Austria. In order to support applicants and beneficiaries in specific

implementation phases the most relevant activities (such as events, workshops, created info material, etc.)

are performed.

5. ISSUES AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE PROGRAMME AND MEASURES TAKEN (ARTICLE 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) a) Issues which affect the performance of the programme and the measures taken


22

In 2018, there were no specific direct problems, which would endanger the performance of the programme.

The first 23 projects plus 7 Technical Assistance projects continued with the implementation of their

activities and another 18 projects were approved by the MC.

Based on the evaluation of the first three deadlines for the submission of projects, it was determined that

within the first two priority axes the values of some indicators are still missing, therefore, the programme

decided to steer also the 4th deadline for submission and published this information on the programme

website, stressed this at the workshops for potential applicants, etc.

Until the submission of the AIR 2018, all milestone values, as defined in the performance framework, were

reached. This proves that the programme is performing well and has no major difficultuies that would

hinder the implementation of projects and their achievements. According to the defined activities and

target values the approved projects and established working framework of the management structures, it

is expected that the final target values for the year 2023 will be reached.

However, due to unexpected absence of designated persons at the FLC in Styria, delays in the FLC process

occurred. This delayed the certification of project expenditures of some projects with Styrian project

partners for up to 6 months and thus also the reimbursement of project expenditures of affected projects.

b) OPTIONAL FOR LIGHT REPORTS, otherwise it will be included in point 9.1 (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013)

An assessment of whether progress made towards targets is sufficient to ensure their fulfilment,

indicating any remedial actions taken or planned, where appropriate

/

6. CITIZEN'S SUMMARY (Article 50(9) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013)

A citizen's summary of the contents of the annual and the final implementation reports shall be made

public and uploaded as a separate file in the form of annex to the annual and the final implementation

report

The citizen's summary is prepared as a separate document and will be uploaded in the SFC and

published on the programme’s website.

7. REPORT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Article 46 of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) Where the managing authority decided to use financial instruments it must send to the Commission a

specific report covering the financial instruments operations as an annex to the annual implementation

report


23

8. WHERE APPROPRIATE, PROGRESS IN PREPARATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF MAJOR PROJECTS AND JOINT ACTION PLANS (Article 101(h) and Article 111(3) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 14(3)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013)


8.1. Major projects


TABLE 7: Major projects

Project CCI Status of MP

1.

completed

2. approved

3. submitted

4. planned

for

notification/

submission

to

Commission

Total

inves

tmen

ts

Total

eligible

costs

Planned

notification/

submission

date

(if

applicable)

(year,

quarter)

Date of

tacit

agreement

/ approval

by

Commissio

n

(if

applicable)

Planned

start

of

impleme

ntation

(year,

quarter)

Planned

completion

date

(year.

quarter)

Priority

Axis/Inv

estment

priorities

Current

state of

realisatio

n –

financial

progress

(% of

expendit

ure

certified

to

Commiss

ion

compare

d to total

Current state of

realisation -

physical progress

Main

implementation

stage of the

project

1.completed/in

operation;

2.advanced

construction;

3. construction;

4. procurement;

5. design

Main

output

s

Date of

signatur

e of first

works

contract5

(if

applicabl

e)

Obse

rvatio

ns (if

neces

sary

5 In the case of operations implemented under PPP structures the signing of the PPP contract between the public body and the private sector body (Article 102(3) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013).

24

eligible

cost)

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ut='

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<type='S'

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<type='

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input='

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<type='D'

input='G'>

<type='D'

input='G'>

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Significant problems encountered in implementing major projects and measures taken to overcome them.

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Any change planned in the list of major projects in the cooperation programme


25

8.2. Joint action plans

Progress in the implementation of different stages of joint action plans


TABLE 8: Joint action plans

Title of

the JAP

CCI Stage of

implementati

on of JAP

1. completed

2. > 50%

implemented

3. Started

4. approved

5. submitted

6. planned

Total

eligible

costs

Total

public

support

OP

contributi

on to JAP

Priority

axis

Type of

JAP

1. normal

2. pilot

3. YEI

[Planned]

submissio

n to the

Commissi

on

[Planned]

start of

implementati

on

[Planned]

completion

Main

outputs

and results

Total

eligible

expenditur

e certified

to the

Commissio

n

Observatio

ns (if

necessary)

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input='

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input='G'

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input='M'> <type='S'

maxlength

=875

input='M'>

<type='N'

input='M'> <type='S'

maxlength

=875

input='M'>

Significant problems encountered and measures taken to overcome them



26

PART B - REPORTING SUBMITTED IN YEARS 2017, 2019 AND FINAL IMPLEMENTATION REPORT (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 14(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013)

9. ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COOPERATION PROGRAMME (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 14(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013)

9.1 Information in Part A and achieving the objectives of the programme (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013)

FOR EACH PRIORITY AXIS - Assessment of the information provided above and progress towards achieving

the objectives of the programme, including the contribution of the ERDF to changes in the value of result

indicators, when evidence is available from evaluations

Within the four deadlines for submission of project applications, until the submission of this AIR, altoghether 43

projects were approved. In addition, the programme is managed and supported by 7 TA projects. 13 projects

were contracted within the 1st deadline (12 February 2016), 10 within the 2nd deadline (27 July 2016), 18 within

the 3rd deadline (14 September 2017) and 2 were approved within the 4th deadline (28 November 2018). Subsidy

contracts for the last two projects will be signed in 2019.

The progress in the light of the achievement of the programme specific output indicators is assessed on the basis

of the planned outcomes of all approved projects and their expected contributions to the programme output

indicators. The reason for such an assessment (and not the actual achieved values) is, that until the submission

of this report, only two (out of 43 approved and 7 TA) projects are concluded.

PA 1: Strengthening cross-border Competitivness, Research and Innovation

17 projects were approved under PA 1, to which 31.94 % of all ERDF funds for projects were allocated. It is

expected that the implemented projects which relate to Specific objective 1.1 will contribute to reaching a critical

mass by institutional cooperation, as this will also have a positive impact on companies in the programme area.

Projects that address Specific objective 1.2. will contribute to better understanding of R&D and innovation

capacities in the programme area, access to infrastructures and services for especially SMEs to implement RTI

activites and get support in the development and improvement of products (with a focus on the development of

new and joint products) and CB services. Projects whose specific objective is increasing the level of

internationalization of enterprises, especially SMEs in the programme area predicted measures oriented to the

market growth (such as networking and clusters). The projects in this PA help creating efficient and stable

business environment to allow companies to grow sustainably.

Contribution of approved projects to the programme specific output indicators:

- The expected number of enterprises receiving support (CO01) and number of enterprises receiving grants

(CO02) is 22, which will exceed the target value for 2023 for 146.66 %. Taking into account only already concluded

projects, the definitely reached value is 2 (13,3 %) that were realized within the projects regioWIN and SMART

PRODUCTION.

- The number of enterprises receiving non-financial support (CO04) is expected to be exceeded significantly

(3,350 %). While taking into account the achievement of already concluded projects, the value 129 enterprises

also exceeded the target value of 30 enterprises (projects regioWIN and SMART PRODUCTION). Such high values

of this indicator reflect wide acceptance as well as the participation of the project target groups in project

activities.


27

- The number of enterprises cooperating with research institutions (CO26) is expected to be 19 out of 20 (95 %

of the target value), where already the achieved number, considering concluded projects, is 1 (project SMART

PRODUCTION).

- Within approved projects, it is expected that 13 new products will be introduced (CO29), thus exceeding the

planned indicator for 260 %.

- The expected number of joint CB R&D projects (1b.1) is 7 (87.5 % of target value).

- The expected number of joint CB internationalization projects involving SMEs is 6 (85.7% of target value), out

of which one has already been achieved (project regioWIN).

PA 2: Protecting the Environment and Promoting Resource Efficiency

Within the PA 2, 13 projects were approved with 39.55 % of all allocated funds.

Out of these projects, there are 11 being implemented within the Specific objective 2.1: Achieving sustainable

development of natural and cultural heritage. Their expected result is a sustainable and competitive tourist

destination achieved by new and/or improved sustainable tourist products and/or services, investments in

nature interpretation infrastructure, capacity building and networking. Consequently, a contribution to economic

growth could be expected.

Two projects (SI-MUR-AT and GoMURra) are being implemented within the Specific objective 2.2: Innovation in

sustainable management and utilization of water resources. Results of both projects are aiming towards joint

studies and research work, innovative measures for improving the quality of the status of CB rivers, increasing

the knowledge base for the decision-making in water policy in order to enable future infrastructure measures.


- The approved projects are expected to develop 27 newly developed and/or improved joint CB tourist products

(6c.1), thus exceeding the planned indicator for 168.75 %.

- Two projects approved by the end of 2018 are targeting geodiversity or biodiversity. One additional project

targeting biodiversity was approved in 2019, therefore, the indicator 6c.2 is already expected to be 100 %

reached.

- The projects are expected to deliver 15 new tourism related services, thus exceeding the target value of

indicator 6c.3 for 250 %.

- Within relevant projects, there are 2 research institutions that are participating in CB research projects, thus

reaching 50 % of the value of the indicator CO42.

- One jointly developed water management strategy will be made available, therefore, the target value of the

indicator 6f.1 is planned to be achived.

- The two projects of the specific objective 2.2 will develop 9 new modelling, monitoring and forecasting studies

and research works, thus exceeding the target value of the indicator 6f.2 for 900 %.

- The approved projects will develop 2 joint CB flood determination, protection and control measures, thus

exceeding the target value of the indicator 6f.3 for 200 %.

PA 3: Enhancing Institutional Capacity and an Efficient Public Administration

Within the PA 3, 13 projects were approved to which 28.51 % of all ERDF funds for projects were allocated.

Implemented activities of the projects within Specific objective 3.1 – Improving cooperation in the fields of risk

management, energy, health and social cohesion will result in strong local and regional networks aiming at

building joint capacities, transfer and exchange of know-how, skills, knowledge and practices, including small

scale investments. Projects that address Specific objective 3.2 will improve interactions among municipalities

and citizens within the CB region. Their expected result is improved environment for cooperation among

municipalities and citizens within the programme area through supporting strong networks on local and regional

level, joint strategies, processes and services, exchange of know-how, knowledge, practices, etc.


28


- 247 institutions will participate in joint CB inicatives, therefore, the indicator 11b.1 will be exceeded for 247 %.

Three projects during their implementation already reported on 21 institutions and/or organisations that were

participating in joint CB initiatives. These results indicate (similar than indicator CO04 within the PA 1) a good

acceptance and benefit that institutions see in participating in activities of the projects approved within CP

Slovenia-Austria 2014-2020.

- It is foreseen that 1,392 people will participate in joint training schemes and programmes, thus exceeding

indicator 11b.2 for 696 %.

- The projects will implement 68 joint CB pilot and demonstration projects, thus exceeding the indicator 11b.3

for 1,360 %.

- Activities for the improvement of public services of approved projects under the PA 3 will have effect on 412,750

people, thus exceeding the set target value of the indicator 11b.4 for 206.4 %.

PA 4: Technical assistance

Achievement of all target values of output indicators related to the TA are progressing well. All relevant bodies

are included in providing information and support to the applicants and beneficiaries. Across the programme

area (in each cooperation country respectively), informative workshops are hosted regularly before each

deadline for submission of project applications and workshops for reporting are being held after the approval of

projects. According to the number of visitors it is clear, that the programme website has been recognized and

accepted as the main information exchange platform between programme authorities and beneficiaries. Each

year, an information day (incorporated in EC day) is organized where selected projects are visited on site and

promoted to the general public.

9.2. Specific actions taken to promote equality between men and women and to promote non-discrimination, in particular accessibility for persons with disabilities, and the arrangements implemented to ensure the integration of the gender perspective in the cooperation programme and operations (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 14(4), subparagraph 2, (d) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013)

An assessment of the implementation of specific actions to take into account the principles set out in Article

7 of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 on promotion of equality between men and women and non-

discrimination, including, where relevant, depending on the content and objectives of the cooperation

programme, an overview of specific actions taken to promote equality between men and women and to

promote non-discrimination, including accessibility for persons with disabilities, and the arrangements

implemented to ensure the integration of the gender perspective in the cooperation programme and

operations

The CP strives to promote equality between men and women throughout all stages of programme

implementation, including the preparation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. All priority axes defined

in the CP have potential to include concrete actions for promoting gender equality. The principles set out in

Article 7 of the Regulation (EU) no 1303/2013 are respected in the programme implementation.

Respect of horizontal principles is included in chapter 3.5 of the Implementation manual for beneficiaries – Part

1 (About the programme). With this guidance and concrete indication in the Application Form, the beneficiaries

are requested to self-assess the contribution of their project proposal to the principles of equal opportunity and

non-discrimination, as well as equality between men and women and to describe and justify their choice.

In line with the criteria for quality assessment of project applications, that were adopted by the MC, the project

that is demonstrating positive contribution to any of the horizontal principles is awarded with 3 points. Before


29

performing the quality assessment, the JS holds internal meetings regarding the assessment of these principles

in order that the same methods and views of assessing the projects contribution was used. Since only 0 or 3

points can be rewarded, only the projects that indicated specific actions on addressing horizontal issues were

awarded with the maximum possible points.

Applicants mainly self-assessed the contribution of their projects to promotion of equality between men and

women as positive in terms of mutual respect, equal treatment and non-discrimination.

Some of the projects especially address the respective horizontal principles in their activites. The project

INVOLVED for example includes the participatory decision making on performing project activities by taking into

consideration the needs of women with family obligations and that working duties are organized in a way that

they are timely-balanced between the professional and family work. The project L2P-2020 plus actively addresses

the issues of unemployement of the young on peripherial border and rural areas through enhanced support of

their career advancement. In the project REGIO HELP elderly as a vulnerable group are addressed through

intergenerational activities that are providing services for improvement of their health and social sphere,

consequently reducing the burden of their family members (predominantely women) who are traditionnaly

providing care and assistance.

9.3. Sustainable development (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 14(4), subparagraph 2, (e) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013)

An assessment of the implementation of actions to take into account the principles set out in Article 8 of

Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 on sustainable development, including, where relevant, depending on the

content and objectives of the cooperation programme, an overview of the actions taken to promote

sustainable development in accordance with that Article

Altogether, the projects that are being implemented within the CP address three horizontal principles. Apart

from equality between men and women and equal opportunity and non-discrimination that are in more detail

described in chapter 9.2, the approved projects also contribute to sustainable development. Predominantly, due

to the objectives of each PA, namely PA 2 (through its investment priorities 6c and 6f) focuses fully on addressing

this horizontal topic.

Sustainable development is, together with other two horizontal topics, included in the chapter 3.5 of the

Implementation manual for beneficiaries – Part 1 (About the programme). With this guidance and concrete

indication in the Application Form, the beneficiaries are requested to self-assess the contribution of their project

proposal to the principles of sustainable development, and justify their choice.

In line with the criteria for quality assessment of project applications, that were adopted by the MC, the project

that is demonstrating positive contribution to any of the horizontal principles is awarded 3 points. Before

performing the quality assessment, JS holds internal meetings regarding the assessment of these principles in

order that the same methods and views of assessing the projects contribution was used. Since only 0 or 3 points

can be rewarded, only the projects that indicated specific actions on addressing horizontal issues were awarded

with maximum possible points.

The most concrete contribution to this horizontal principle can be expected from the projects that are being

implemented under PA 2. Many projects are focusing on raising awareness about natural resources. Some

concrete actions for reducing the impact of human activities on areas of natural (including geological) and cultural

values are foreseen while encouraging employment opportunities on the countryside with new programmes

(projects NaKult and NatureGame). Innovative incorporation of existing cultural heritage, namely castles into

tourist offer contributes to the enhancement of added value in the tourism and cultural sector, thus promoting

sustainable economic development (project Castle Road).

In addition, further contribution is expected in the field of preserving the quality of surface and groundwater in

the Mura/Mur river basin. Two projects are addressing sustainable development of this border river and adjoint


30

river branches and flooding areas, therefore contributing to the conservation of vulnerable ecosystems and

increasing biodiversity could be expected (projects SI-MUR-AT and goMURra).

9.4. Reporting on support used for climate change objectives (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013)

Figures calculated automatically by the SFC2014 based on categorisation data.

Priority axis Amount of support to be used for climate change objectives (EUR)

Proportion of total allocation of the programme (%)

A.2 2,026,981.67 11.54%

A.3 2,544,387.49 20.52%

Total 4,571,369.15 9.53%

9.5 Role of partners in the implementation of the cooperation programme (Article 50(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 and Article 14(4), subparagraph 1, (c) of Regulation (EU) No 1299/2013)

Assessment of the implementation of actions to take into account the role of partners referred to in Article

5 of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013, including involvement of the partners in the implementation,

monitoring and evaluation of the cooperation programme

The MC of the Cooperation Programme consists of 27 members (and their respective deputies). Of these there

are 7 voting members from Slovenia and 5 from Austria plus 6 respectively 8 members in advisory capacity

without voting rights and an additional representative from the EC.

On the Slovenian side, all voting members come from central Ministries (7). The advisory members are

representing further Ministries (2), the Chamber of Commerce (1), Regional Development Agencies (2) and NGOs

(1).

On the Austrian side, the voting members are from 2 central Ministries and one from each of the 3 participating

regional administrations. The advisory members are representing further Ministries (5), the Austrian Embassy in

Ljubljana (1), a gender representative and a representative of the general directorate, each from a regional

government (2). The functioning of the MC has been effective. Both MC delegations organise preparatory

meetings where relevant topics are discussed and opinions aligned nationally, which allows more efficient and

effective discussions and decision-taking at the MC meetings.

The programme partners are informed about all programme activities and are invited to all events organised by

MA and JS. The quality of cooperation between programme partners is perceived as good. Potential problems or

topics which need bilateral consensus are being solved at regular BWG meetings or by phone/e-mail in a quick

and constructive manner.

10. OBLIGATORY INFORMATION AND ASSESSMENT ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 14(4), Subparagraph 1 (a) and (b), of REGULATION (EU) No 1299/2013

10.1 Progress in implementation of the evaluation plan and the follow-up given to the findings of evaluations

The evaluation plan of the Cooperation Programme Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria was approved at the 2nd

Monitoring Committee meeting on 2 June 2016. According to the evaluation plan, four evaluations feeding into

the respective Annual Implementation Reports are foreseen; two implementing evaluations and two impact

evaluations.


31

The first implementing evaluation started in the second half of 2016 and was, in accordance with the timing

foreseen in the evaluation plan, carried out in the first half of 2017. It focused on programme management and

implementation, project selection procedures and the Communication strategy. The evaluation was carried out

on the basis of desk research, online survey for Lead Partners of the submitted project in the frame of the first

and second deadline of the Open Call and interviews with programme structures.

Taking into account the conclusions and recommendations of the first implementing evaluation, the programme

has undertaken different measures to improve the performance of the programme and cooperation among

different programme structures. E. g. in October 2018 a Workshop for the MC members has been organised by

MA and JS to straighten interpersonal communication and teamwork of the MC members. The event was

moderated by, as recommended by the evaluator, an external moderator (Interact). During the consultation

phase before each deadline for submission, the communication and coordination among advisory bodies has

become more intense (by phone, occasional meetings discussing the project proposals, etc.). The eMS has been

updated regularly, the MA and JS have screened the needs of the programme bodies (e.g. FLCs and AA/AB) and

introduced reasonable solutions in the eMS system or provided additional clarifications/instructions to the

relevant programme structure. The Slovene FLCs have adapted their national guidelines by giving the

beneficiaries the possibility to supplement the submitted project partner reports in some cases. The 4th deadline

has been focused in the direction of missing programme indicators, by providing this information on the

programme website, at the workshops, individual advisory meetings, etc.

In March 2019, the JS engaged a consortium of Slovenian and Austrian consultants on a four years’ contract in

order to perform the second implementing evaluation and two impact evaluations. At the time of submission of

this annual report, the second implementing evaluation is underway, which is focusing on the evaluation of

efficiency and effectiveness. The objectives of this evaluation are: effectiveness of the programme structures and

processes, management of the funds for technical assistance, effectiveness of reporting and reimbursement of

funds to the beneficiaries, assessment of the first achievements of the programme, evaluation of project

partnerships, assessment of milestones within the Performance framework for the year 2018 and evaluation of

the communication strategy.

In order to obtain relevant information from all stakeholders and partners of the programme, the following

methods are being used: analysis of primary data, on-line questionnaire for designated target groups in order to

acquire the programme result indicators, interviews with programme structures, on-line questionnaire for

beneficiaries (lead and project partners) and triangulation of acquired data.

Following the evaluation of efficiency and effectiveness, in first half of the year 2020 the first impact evaluation

will be available, and in second half of 2022 the second impact evaluation will be available.

10.2 The results of the information and publicity measures of the Funds carried out under the communication strategy

The Communication Strategy defines one general objective and two specific objectives with corresponding

indicators and methodology for respective data collection as well as target groups and communication activities

that should be implemented with a communication budget of 268.000 EUR (about 34.000 EUR/year).

Programme communication distinguishes three phases:

1. Promoting the results and best practices of the OP SI-AT 2007-2013 (2014-2016). This has been finalized with

the publication (hard copy and web-version) of a brochure presenting 89 supported projects.

2. Promoting funding opportunities in the frame of the CP Interreg SI-AT in the period 2014-2020 (2015-2020)

has been intensely undertaken and resulted in a 190 project applications and by the end of 2018 41 approved

projects witin three deadlines for submission.

3. Promoting the results, benefits and best practices of the CP Interreg SI-AT in the period 2014-2020 (2017-2023)

has already started and is presenting continuously project examples.


32

Additionally, during the whole programme period, especially the MA and JS are providing information and

support to (potential) beneficiaries and programme partners.

By the end of December 2018, an amount of 175.000 EUR has been spent on communication activities.

For the general objective “Enhancing the public awareness of the EU support for projects in the area of CBC”

three result indicators have been defined:

a. Recognisability of the CP Interreg SI-AT

b. Knowledge of the programme website

c. Number of visits to the website

The result indicators a) and b) are targeting the general public and data should be collected via a survey in 2018,

similar to one undertaken in the previous programme period. However, such a survey has not been undertaken

and neither these two indicators nor the chosen methodology seem appropriate for measuring the results of the

communication strategy. The involved means both for funding projects and for communication measures are so

low that a meaningful response of these indicators to Programme activities is not likely and the proposed survey

may neither picture adequately the perception of the general public in the programme region nor could the

opinion of the general population in the region about these Programme results be investigated with

proportionate efforts. Both indicators are also subject of the evaluation which is currently in process, therefore,

further steps and reporting on those two indicators will be included in the next AIR.

Regarding result indicator 3 “Number of visits to the website” by December 2018, 44.042 visits have been

registered (target value 10.000 visits until 2023).

Seven output indicators have been defined for the two specific objectives:

(1) “Motivate (potential) beneficiaries / communicate the possibilities to use the EU Funds” and

(2) “Inform target audiences of the practical benefits of the projects implemented and their impact on day-to-

day life of the citizens in the cross-border area”

The progress towards achieving the target values of these indicators by December 2018 is well ahead of plan:

108 electronic messages with informative contents have been submitted (planned were 40).

9 workshops were performed (planed were 12).

970 participants attended the workshops (planned were 250).

389 mailing list members are registrated (planned were 500).

3.900 issues of information materials were created (planned were 1.000).

4 bigger (annual) events were performed (planned were 8).

1.210 participants attended those events (planned were 800).

11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION WHICH MAY BE ADDED DEPENDING ON THE CONTENT AND OBJECTIVES OF THE COOPERATION PROGRAMME (Article 14(4), subparagraph 2 (a), (b), (c) and (f), of REGULATION (EU) No 1299/2013)

11.1 Progress in implementation of the integrated approach to territorial development, including sustainable urban development, and community-led local development under the cooperation programme

/

11.2 Progress in implementation of actions to reinforce the capacity of authorities and beneficiaries to administer and to use the ERDF

All management structures recognize that (apart from necessary national legislation), new knowledge and

competences related to the management of EU funds have to be acquired abroad. Consequently, the trainings

that are organized by the Interact programme remain the predominant and most important action for the

reinforcement of the capacity of the programme authorities to administer ERDF funds in the light of EU


33

regulations and CP objectives. One of the most important added value of these seminars is the exchange of

knowledge (notably experience of solving specific and usually similar challenges and problems) between the

respective structures from other programmes. In many cases, meeting people working in same field in other

cross-border programmes resulted in longterm and regular exchange of information in an unformal manner.

Programme management structures are well embedded in regional cooperation with other cross-border

programmes. The MA, together with the JS, keeps in touch regularly as regular annual meetings are organized

with the programme authorities of the following cross-border programmes: Slovenia-Austria, Slovenia-Croatia,

Slovenia-Hungary, Austra-Hungary and Hungary-Croatia. Networking with other programmes is recognized as a

major asset and solves many problems and provides many suggestions for future work and cooperation.

Apart from already available relevant guidelines for the beneficiaries, the JS with support of the MA, NA/RAs and

FLCs remain available via website news, e-mails, telephone and/or personal contact for any necessary

clarifications or project specific questions that may rise in the phase of project preparation or project

management. Workshops in each participating country are organized for beneficiaries in the project preparation

phase (before the deadline for the submission of applications), as well as after the start of the project with more

focus on reporting procedure and reimbursement of funds.

11.3 Contribution to macro-regional and sea basin strategies (where appropriate)

Within the application, the contribution to the relevant macro-regional strategies has to be described by the

project partners, however, in this regard no additional points are allocated to the projects within the quality

check. The 41 projects approved by the end of 2018 within the Open Call of the CP Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria

are contributing to the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) and the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region

(EUSALPS). In general, all 41 projects contribute to one or more macro-regional strategy, however, only some

projects, which have a distinct impact on the targets and challenges set by the macro-regional framework are

listed in the following:

Priority areas of macro-regional strategies and projects contributing to their pillars and priority areas:

EUSDR (Slovenia, Austria)

- PA 03 - Culture and tourism (AS-IT-IC, 321 go, Castle Road)

- PA 04 - Water Quality (SI-MUR-AT, goMURra)

- PA 07 - Knowledge Society (REGIO HELP, Coop4HealthCare)

- PA 08 – Competitiveness (regioWIN, MMO3D, IRIC, GO2BENELUX&SCANDINAVIA, EXPEDIRE)

- PA 10 - Institutional capacity and cooperation (REGIO HELP, L2P-2020Plus, EUREVITA, INNOVET, EUfutuR)

EUSALP (Slovenia, Austria)

THEMATIC POLICY AREA 1: Economic Growth and Innovation

- Action 1: Research and innovation ecosystem (regioWIN, MMO3D, IRIC, PolyMetal)

THEMATIC POLICY AREA 3: Environment and Energy

- Action 6: natural resources (incl. water and cultural resources) (NaKult, NatureGame, NEKTEO, Flagship

Products)

One example of a project contributing to the EUSDR is the project EUfutuR, which started in July 2016 and is

planned to be finished in 2019. The project’s main objective is strengthening the bilateral identity and

international importance of Geoparks, resulting in the submission of an EGTC Geopark with the integration of

the objectives of the complying specialist institutions. The UNESCO global Geopark Karavanke exists since March

2013, and is made up of 14 communities on both sides of the border that are merged into a joint venture.

11.4 Progress in the implementation of actions in the field of social innovation


34

/

12. Financial information at priority axis and programme level (Articles 21(2) and 22(7) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) For the purpose of assessing progress towards the achievement of milestones and targets set for financial

indicators in the years 2018 and 2023, table 4 of Part A of this Annex shall have the following two additional

columns:

13 14

Data for the purpose of the performance review and performance framework

Only for report submitted in 2019:

Total eligible expenditure incurred and paid

by beneficiaries and certified to the

Commission by 31/12/2018

Article 21(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013

Only for final implementation report: Total

eligible expenditure incurred and paid by

beneficiaries by 31/12/2023 and certified to the

Commission

Article 22(7) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013


35

PART C - REPORTING SUBMITTED IN YEAR 2019 AND FINAL IMPLEMENTATION REPORT (Article 50(5) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013)

13. SMART, SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH Information and assessment of the programme contribution to achieving the Union strategy for smart,

sustainable and inclusive growth.

The conceptual orientation of the CP Slovenia-Austria follows also the ambition of the Europe 2020 strategy and

its aims for “smart, sustainable and inclusive growth”. Common challenges of the regions of the programme area

were taken into account within the selection of thematic objectives in order to contribute to social, economic

and terrotiorial cohesion.

The CP with its investment priority 1b – Business investment in innovation and research, within CSF thematic

objective 1 – Research and innovation directly contributes to the Smart Growth as Europe 2020 priority. Within

this priority, 17 projects are being implemented, to which 13.879.728,12 EUR of ERDF funds are allocated (31,94

% of all allocated ERDF funds for projects).

Investment priorities 6c – Protecting, promoting and developing cultural and natural heritage and 6f – Promoting

innovative technologies to improve environmental protection and resource efficiency within the CSF objective 6

– Environment, Resource efficiency are both contributing to the Sustainable growth of Europe 2020 priority.

Within both priorities, 13 projects are approved (including project BANAP submitted in 2018 and approved in

2019), to which 17.186.453,46 EUR or ERDF funds are allocated (39,55 % of all allocated ERDF funds for projects).

The third main Union 2020 priority – Inclusive growth is addressed by the programme with the third PA through

ESF thematic objective 11 – Enhancing institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders and efficient

public administration within investment priority 11b – Promoting legal and administrative cooperation and

cooperation between citizens and institutions (ETC-CB). 13 projects (including the project Co_Operation

submitted in 2018 and approved in 2019) to which 12.389.061,61 EUR ERDF funds are allocated (28,51 % of all

allocated ERDF funds for projects) addresses this priority.

Based on the selected thematic objectives, the CP reduces barriers of development by promoting sustainable

and integrated territorial approaches. The CP with its projects strengthens existing potentials and makes use of

them and therefore supports territorial integration which results in smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, thus

directly contributing to the Europe 2020 goals.

In this stage of the programme implementation, where by the due date of this report only 2 out of 43 approved

projects are concluded, the assessment of the impact of the projects to achieving Union goals cannot be

performed. Hovewer, considering already being implemented and planned activities of selected projects, it is

foreseen that the programme will notably contribute towards achieving smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.

More profound information and external assessment of the programme’s contribution to achieving the Union

strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth will be available after the first, and especially the second

impact evaluation.

14. ISSUES AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE PROGRAMME AND MEASURES TAKEN – PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK (Article 50(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013) Where the assessment of progress made with regard to the milestones and targets set out in the

performance framework demonstrates that certain milestones and targets have not been achieved,

Member States should outline the underlying reasons for failure to achieve these milestones in the report

of 2019 (for milestones) and in the final implementation report (for targets).

All of the milestones in the performance framework set for 2018 have been achived.

annual implementation report 2018€¦ · 2 annual implementation report 2018 1. identification of...

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