Training on Project Cycle Management Brings Together More Than 50 Potential Project Applicants
On 17 September 2026, a training on Project Cycle Management was held in Kumanovo. The training brought together more than 50 interested participants from Serbia and North Macedonia.
Potential project applicants from both partner countries were invited to the training. Participants came from local self-governments, the non-governmental sector, associations and other institutions. All of them are eligible to apply for funding under the Programme.
IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme Presented
The training also presented the IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme Serbia–North Macedonia 2021–2027. For the 2021–2027 financial perspective, a total EU contribution of EUR 8.4 million is planned.
In addition, participants learned about the basics of applying for Programme funding. The events accompanying the publication of Calls for Proposals were also presented.
Participants also received information about the support available to them. This support is available before and during the Call, as well as after its publication. Support also continues during contract implementation.
From Project Idea to Project Proposal
A more advanced part of the training focused on Project Cycle Management. Particular attention was given to the use of the Logical Framework in project preparation.
Participants learned about stakeholder analysis and problem analysis. They then explored the intervention logic, assumptions and indicators.
All these elements were presented in the context of cross-border cooperation. Trainers used practical examples to make the more complex concepts easier to understand.
At the same time, participants actively engaged in the training. Through questions and answers, key aspects of Project Cycle Management were further clarified.
Support for Establishing Partnerships
The Joint Technical Secretariat (JTS) team was also available to the participants. The JTS is based in Leskovac and has an office in Kumanovo.
During the breaks, the JTS team connected participants from Serbia and North Macedonia through direct discussions, focusing on similar project ideas. At the same time, the team presented opportunities for establishing partnerships.
In this way, potential project applicants had the opportunity to exchange contacts and ideas. The JTS provides continuous support in the process of connecting with potential partners.
Institutional Contribution to Programme Implementation
Representatives of the Ministry of Local Self-Government of North Macedonia also attended the training. Representatives of the Ministry of European Integration of the Republic of Serbia also contributed their expertise.
These institutions play a key role in the implementation of the Cross-Border Cooperation Programme Serbia–North Macedonia.
Additional Materials for Participants
Following the systematisation of the information collected during the training, materials will be shared with the participants. They will provide additional information and facilitate the establishment of future partnerships.
For any questions related to the training and the opportunities offered by the Programme, interested parties can contact the Joint Technical Secretariat.
