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… prosperous, inclusive and self-sustaining communities,
where the unique cultures,
traditions and environments are enhanced …
Stage Two
ESF Trainee
 

Stage Two

After receiving confirmation of approval of the Stage One Application, applicants can complete and submit a Stage Two Application via the Eurosys system..  Please note that Eurosys does allow for Stage 2 to be started and completed at the same time as Stage 1 and so if an applicant wishes to use this function then it is at their own risk.  However, a Stage 2 cannot actually be submitted until the Stage 1 is approved.

The application deadlines are set annually and should be adhered to - late submissions can be deemed ineligible by the Scottish Government. Applications should be submitted electronically via Eurosys by the deadline and sent in hard copy with all necessary annexes to be received no later than 3 working days after the deadline date. Annexes will also be required electronically and applicants will be contacted to provide these following submission.

There is only one version of the application form regardless of whether projects are seeking ERDF or ESF assistance within the Highlands and Islands or Lowlands and Uplands Scotland Programme areas.  Projects falling within both areas in Scotland require to submit a separate form for each Programme as the objectives and Priorities differ.  It is vital that, if applying under both Programme areas, that the application is tailored to the Highlands and Islands and provides clear justification for this region. 

The form is split into six sections:

  1. Project Summary
  2. Participant Characteristics (for ESF projects only)
  3. Core Indicators and Targets,
  4. Justification (which includes strategic fit, evidence of demand, need for grant, structure and management, outcomes, partnership, horizontal themes, past performance, innovation/value added),
  5. Project Finance,
  6. Compliance and Declaration. 

The Justification Section provides the applicant with the opportunity to present the project as clearly as possible and each category is weighted within the scoring system.

Prior to completion of this form, there are a number of documents available to provide support and guidance.  Applicants should familiarise themselves with these and they include:

  • The ERDF and ESF Programme documents<
  • National Rules which provide important guidance on eligibility of expenditure
  • Notes for Applicants (incorporating the project user guidance for using Eurosys)

These documents are available from the Downloads section of this website.