What evolution can be identified in the organisations managing EU funding, particularly due to simplification efforts pursued by the Commission in 2008, 2009 and 2010?

This study reviews the effects of the simplification measures introduced between 2008 and 2010 on Structural Funds (SF) beneficiaries, with a specific focus on the simplified cost options introduced by Regulations (EC) Nos 396/2009 and 397/2009 of 6 May 2009.

The study highlights implementation difficulties in some of the key areas of SF support (related to research and innovation), as evidenced by low financial absorption.

Case studies provide in-depth insights (in Spain, the United Kingdom, Greece, Denmark, France, Germany, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands).