European funds are a key opportunity to finance projects aligned with the European Union’s economic, social, and environmental priorities.
During the 2021–2027 period, more than 42 billion euros are being mobilized in France through several major funds: the ESF+, the ERDF, the EAFRD, and the AMIF.
This guide helps you understand what European funds are, who can benefit from them, and how to apply.
What is a European fund?
A European fund is a financing mechanism established by the European Union to support projects of public interest, led by public, non-profit, or economic actors.
These are not loans but co-financing schemes, provided in the form of grants. These funds are largely managed at the regional or national level.
The funded projects must address European objectives such as:
Employment and training
Ecological transition
Innovation
Social cohesion
Rural development
Reception of migrant populations
What are the main European funds for 2021–2027?
ESF+ (European Social Fund Plus)
Funds projects related to employment, professional integration, lifelong learning, equal opportunities, and the social and solidarity economy.
Beneficiaries: local missions, local authorities, associations, integration structures.
ERDF (European Regional Development Fund)
Supports R&D projects, innovation, digital transformation, energy efficiency, and sustainable mobility.
Beneficiaries: businesses, local authorities, research institutions, incubators.
EAFRD (European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development)
Finances agricultural, agri-food, forestry, and rural revitalization projects.
Beneficiaries: farmers, inter-municipal bodies, agricultural unions.
AMIF (Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund)
Supports actions for the reception, housing, and integration of migrants and refugees.
Beneficiaries: local authorities, associations, shelters.
Who can benefit from European funds?
The beneficiaries are mainly legal entities (public or private structures).
Examples of eligible structures:
Local authorities
Non-profit associations
Public institutions
Businesses (especially SMEs and startups)
Training organizations
Social and solidarity economy actors
Individuals are not directly eligible but can benefit from actions financed by these funds (training, employment, integration, etc.).
How to obtain European funding?
Identify the program that matches your project (ESF+, ERDF, EAFRD, AMIF)
Check the eligibility of your organization and the relevant territory
Consult open calls for proposals on official websites
Prepare a solid application (project description, financing plan, indicators)
Follow the submission procedure (online platform or paper submission, depending on the case)
It is recommended to seek support from a specialized consultancy or a public support structure (chamber of commerce, regional body, etc.).
Where to find current calls for proposals?
Our team publishes all useful calls for projects here:
https://www.welcomeurope.com/the-list-of-our-calls-projects/
This includes:
A list of available calls by region, filterable by status, activity sectors, or beneficiaries
Details of application procedures
Official documents (briefs, regulations, guides)
Answers to frequently asked questions
What is a European fund?
A European fund is a financial package intended to co-finance projects of public or economic interest within European territory.
Who can benefit from European funds?
Mainly public entities, associations, businesses, or training organizations.
What is the ESF+?
The ESF+ supports actions related to professional integration, training, employment, and equal opportunities.
What is the AMIF program?
AMIF funds projects related to the reception, housing, and integration of migrants and asylum seekers.
Need support?
Do you have a project and want to know if it’s eligible for funding?
We can help you:
Identify suitable funding schemes
Prepare your application
Manage administrative follow-up
Contact us for a free, no-obligation assessment.
25 August 2021
