Identification and assessment of the elements that ensure the sustainability of ESF operations implemented following calls for proposals

The European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) supports sustainable and inclusive growth across Europe by investing in people, skills, and promoting social cohesion. ESF+ finances operations aim to achieve long-term positive results and impacts on individuals, communities, and regions. In other words, ESF+ interventions intend to produce socio-economic results and impacts that are sustainable over time. However, the socio-economic sustainability is a complex and multifaceted topic, with several factors contributing or hindering the capability of operations to achieve long-term results and impacts. This study is focused on the relationship between sustainability and the selection procedures of ESF operations, particularly calls for proposals which are used, as an alternative to direct awards, to deliver ESF support. Calls for proposals are selection procedures which promote competition among potential beneficiaries, while direct awards provide financial support without a competitive process. The study on “identification and assessment of the elements that ensure the sustainability of ESF operations implemented following calls for proposals” identifies the factors influencing the long-term success of ESF-funded projects, provides lessons and recommendations to improve future ESF+ operations and policy design. The study is complemented by a brief, self-standing handbook, intended as a practical guide for Managing Authorities (MAs) and practitioners that work on, or are interested into, ESF+ calls for proposals design and implementation.