How to write the impact section of your European project

In the context of European funding, the ‘impact’ section is one of the most strategic parts of the application. It allows evaluators to assess the scope of the project beyond its immediate activities.

A rigorous and clear drafting of this section can make the difference between two technically equivalent projects. Here are the elements to consider in order to structure this section effectively.

Understanding the funder’s expectations

The term ‘impact’ is used in a specific sense by the European Commission and managing authorities. It refers to the changes expected in the short, medium or long term for the direct and indirect beneficiaries of the project.

The evaluator will seek to identify:

• The added value of the project,

• Its ability to produce measurable effects,

• Its contribution to European priorities,

• Its potential for replication or spin-off.

It is therefore essential to respond clearly to these expectations, avoiding generic formulations or statements of intent.

Differentiating between levels of impact

It is recommended that the analysis be structured on three levels:

1. Immediate results (outputs): deliverables, tools, platforms, events.

2. Direct effects (outcomes): changes observed among project beneficiaries.

3. Long-term impacts: structural transformations, effects on public policy, contribution to European societal objectives.

This gradation makes it possible to demonstrate a strategic vision for the project and to anchor the actions in a broader framework.

Quantifying impacts

A good impact is a measurable impact. It is advisable to:

• Define clear indicators,

• Set target values (quantified),

• Identify monitoring and evaluation tools,

• Specify the time frame (short, medium, long term).

The aim is to demonstrate the project’s ability to produce concrete, visible and sustained effects over time.

Identify the target beneficiaries

Project leaders must specify who will benefit from the project’s impacts:

• Direct beneficiaries: end users, stakeholders, partners.

• Indirect beneficiaries: local stakeholders, public decision-makers, civil society.

It is also relevant to indicate how these audiences will be mobilised, sensitised or involved in the process.

Articulate the impacts with European priorities

The project must be in line with European public policy. It is therefore useful to recall:

• The relevant European strategies or action plans (Green Deal, Digital Compact, inclusion strategy, etc.),

• Consistency with the objectives of the funding programme,

• The project’s contribution to international commitments (SDGs, Green Deal, etc.).

This shows that the project is part of a systemic vision and goes beyond its simple operational framework.

Plan dissemination and sustainability actions

The impact does not end when the project closes. The results are expected to be promoted and reused.

It is therefore necessary to explain:

• The planned dissemination channels,

• The dissemination targets,

• The sustainability strategies,

• The involvement of stakeholders after the end of funding.

In conclusion

The ‘impact’ section is not a communication exercise: it is a demonstration of the relevance, scope and sustainability of the project. A structured text, rooted in policy objectives and accompanied by concrete indicators, will significantly enhance the quality of the application.

Key points to remember:

• The impact must be differentiated into results, effects and long-term changes.

• It must be measurable, quantified and monitored.

• It must be aligned with European policies.

• It involves a dissemination and sustainability strategy.

Welcomeurope can assist you in the strategic development or review of your application files. If this seems relevant to you, please contact us directly.