Investigation and surveillance equipment and methods

The 'Investigation and surveillance equipment and methods' program is designed for national and regional public authorities and international organizations focused on protecting the EU's financial interests. It targets activities primarily within EU Member States, EEA countries, and other associated nations, aiming to enhance investigative and operational capabilities against fraud.

This funding program supports the acquisition and maintenance of specialized equipment and methods crucial for anti-fraud efforts. It specifically covers expenses related to investigation, surveillance, and digital forensics, along with necessary training for their effective use. The grants are intended for the implementation phase of projects, ensuring direct application of the acquired tools and knowledge.

The 'Investigation and surveillance equipment and methods' program provides financial support through grants, with a typical project funding rate of 80% of eligible costs, potentially increasing to 90% for priority actions. Individual grants can reach up to EUR 1,710,000, and projects are generally expected to last between 12 and 24 months, with a minimum project budget of EUR 100,000.

Applicants must adhere to strict administrative and financial conditions, including detailed proposal submission requirements and capacity checks. While single applicants are allowed, adherence to eligibility criteria, budget rules, and reporting obligations is crucial. Intellectual property, communication, and durability of results are also key considerations.

The application process for 'Investigation and surveillance equipment and methods' is a streamlined, single-stage electronic submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Evaluation involves checks for admissibility and eligibility, followed by assessment against specific award criteria, with successful proposals moving to grant agreement preparation.

The 'Investigation and surveillance equipment and methods' program operates under the robust legal framework of the Union Anti-Fraud Programme (EUAF) and is governed by key EU financial regulations. Official texts are made accessible to ensure transparency and provide comprehensive guidance for applicants and beneficiaries.