breadcrumb.ecName
en English

Programme Competitiveness and Cohesion 2021 - 2027

Programme description

The programme will help Croatia in facing its challenges in its adaptation to a greener and more digital economy, while achieving major EU policy objectives. The programme seeks to increase regional economic competitiveness by improving the lives of citizens through better services and better infrastructure, along with support to the development of businesses. Among its areas of intervention, the programme has four priorities:

Firstly, it aims at improving the country’s competitiveness by investing in research and development. This will entail the digitalisation of businesses and an increase in the availability and quality of e-services. Particular attention will also be paid to supporting small and medium enterprises to become stronger competitors within the global market while assisting workers in adapting their skills.

Secondly, the programme will help Croatia join the common effort for a greener, lower carbon and more resilient Europe. Funds will target improving energy efficiency, increasing the share of renewables in energy production. The EU's support will ensure the development of smart energy systems, encourage circular economy approaches and assist sustainable waste and water management. Such measure will contribute to Coratia's resilience to climate change, by protecting biodiversity and managing risks. 

Thirdly, the programme will improve connectivity and mobility by improving transport. This will carried out through a range of much-needed improvements to the national rail infrastructure and further development of maritime infrastructure coherently with the needs of Croatia's coastal areas and islands. 

Finally, with an eye at making both Europe and Croatia more inclusive, the programme will further children's participation in kindergartens and day school by raising their overall quality. Substantial funding will be devoted to upgrading social services and healthcare for the most vulnerable people. 

Financial information

Breakdown of finances by priority axis

Priority Axis EU Investment National Public Contribution Total Public Contribution
CF 1.182.402.919,00 208.659.340,00 1.391.062.259,00
ERDF 4.020.629.175,00 709.522.799,00 4.730.151.974,00
Total 5.203.032.094,00 918.182.139,00 6.121.214.233,00

Priorities and Specific Objectives

Smarter Europe

Enhancing research and innovation

Reaping the benefits of digitisation

Growth and competitiveness of SMEs

Skills for smart specialisation and transition

Digital connectivity

Greener Europe

Energy efficiency

Renewable energy

Smart energy systems

Climate change adaptation

Sustainable water

Circular economy

Nature protection and biodiversity

Sustainable urban mobility

Connected Europe

Sustainable TEN-T

Sustainable transport

Social Europe

Education and training infrastructure

Integration of marginalised communities

Access to health care

Culture and sustainable tourism