The Smartiago project is developed under a collaboration agreement of the FID Line (Promotion of Innovation from Demand) between the Ministry of Science and Innovation and the City Council of Santiago de Compostela and is 80% funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) in the framework of the Pluri-regional Operational Programme of Spain 2014-2020. It is also co-financed by the Galician Innovation Agency (GAIN) at 10%.

European Regional Development Fund

The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) aims to strengthen socio-economic cohesion within the European Union by correcting imbalances between its regions.

The ERDF focuses its investments on several key priority areas. This is known as "thematic concentration":

• Innovation and research
• Digital programme
• Support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Low carbon economy

The ERDF resources allocated to these priorities will depend on the category of the region.

• More developed regions, at least 80% of the funds must be focused on at least two of these priorities.
• Transition regions, the minimum limit is 60% of the funds.
• Less developed regions, the minimum is 50%.

In addition, some of the ERDF resources must be specifically earmarked for low carbon economy projects:

• More developed regions: 20%.
• Transition regions: 15%.
• Less developed regions: 12%.

European Territorial Cooperation

Under the European Territorial Cooperation programmes, at least 80% of the funds will be concentrated on the four priority areas mentioned above.

Specific territorial characteristics

The ERDF pays particular attention to the specific characteristics of each region. ERDF action is designed to reduce socio-economic and environmental problems in urban areas and focuses particularly on sustainable urban development. At least 5% of ERDF resources are set aside for this purpose, through "integrated actions" managed by cities.

Areas that are geographically disadvantaged for natural reasons (remote, mountainous or sparsely populated areas) will benefit from special treatment. Finally, the outermost areas also benefit from specific ERDF assistance to address any disadvantages that may arise due to their remoteness.

For further information: Rules for the European Regional Development Fund

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