Ft 675 bln available in EU tenders

Applicants can expect a better year in 2005 in terms of EU tenders as about 60 new opportunities are expected to be published by the end of March, said Péter Szaló, head of the National Development Office (NFH). The total budget of all EU sources for the period of 2004-2006 is Ft 675 billion, 70% of which has not yet been awarded. The Agricultural and Rural Development (AVOP), the Economic Competitiveness (GVOP), the Human Resources Development (HEFOP), the Environmental Protection and Infrastructure (KIOP), and the Regional Development (ROP) Operative Programs have budgets of Ft 107 billion, Ft 150 billion, Ft 186 billion, Ft 112 billion, and Ft 120 billion, respectively. In 2004, 21% of the total budget was engaged, this year, they will award 47% of the money, and in 2006, 32% is expected to be distributed. (Vg 1,3) E.C.