The EU-Thailand Economic Co-operation Small Project Facility (SPF) sets out to promote civil society dialogue and enhance co-operation in trade, investment and related areas. The aim is to implement innovative, short term projects of importance to both Thailand and the EU.

Ambassador Friedrich Hamburger, Head of the Delegation of the European Commission in Thailand said, “The SPF presents considerable opportunities for eligible organisations to carry out activities that reinforce Thailand’s role as a key economic partner of the European Union.”

Areas covered include bilateral trade and investment; market access; improving industrial output and issues resulting from the WTO Doha Ministerial Declaration.

Types of activities that may receive SPF funding include technical assistance, training and capacity building activities; studies; media events and products; business-related research activities; conferences, seminars and workshops; and other activities that promote the image of the EU and Thailand as models or examples of best practice.

Non-profit making organisations legally registered in Thailand are eligible to apply. These include non-governmental organisations, local authorities, business associations, universities or other institutions such as think-tanks.

The programme will be implemented through Calls for Proposals. A total of €3 million (THB150 million) is available in 2005. The minimum grant size is €30,000 (THB1.5 million) and the maximum €200,000 (THB10 million). Grants may not exceed 75% of the total budget of the proposed activities with the applicant co-financing the remainder. The maximum duration for a single project is 12 months.

A launching event for the SPF will be held at the Conrad Hotel on Friday, 28 January from 09.00hrs – 12.00hrs. The event will feature a presentation on the SPF as well as provide practical information for potential applicants.

More information about the SPF is available at: www.deltha.cec.eu.int/spf Alternatively contact the Delegation of the European Commission at: delegation-thailand@cec.eu.int or 02 305 2600 / 2700.