A recent fi-compass publication describes a technical assistance initiative to support rural infrastructure and Smart Villages development, aiming to better inform EAFRD managing authorities about the use of financial instruments.

The use of innovative financial instruments and their efficient combination with EAFRD or EIB financing could boost investment levels in rural Europe, ensuring the sustainability of rural infrastructure financing in the medium to long-term. This responds to local needs by involving local partnerships such as LAGs and could help the development of the Smart Villages concept across the whole EU.

The initiative is promoted by the European Commission Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development (DG AGRI) in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB).