Call for proposals: �Support for information measures relating to the common agricultural policy (CAP)�: Implementation of information measures under budget heading 05 08 06 for 2013

2013 will be key in the discussions about the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The priority topic for this call for proposals will be the CAP in general, and in particular the proposed reforms of the policy.

Proposed projects should seek to:
— ensure better public understanding of the CAP, in particular in the context of the proposals for reform,
— show the role of the CAP in the development of growth that is intelligent, sustainable and inclusive as set out in the Europe 2020 strategy,
— improve the understanding of the CAP’s contribution to guaranteeing European citizens healthy and quality food production, to preserving the environment and to helping develop rural areas in the European Union,
— stimulate public interest in the role of farmers, agriculture and rural development in our society by promoting agriculture's multiple roles and show the contribution of the CAP by supporting farmers, agriculture and rural development in the European Union.

Priority will be given to projects at national or EU level that are likely to have a major impact, are ground-breaking and creative.
The Commission will also give priority to information measures proposed by formally or informally established networks at European level or information measures that include setting up and/or developing such networks.

In the context of the current call for proposals, the Commission envisages selecting two types of integrated public communication measures: at national level, by uniting various partners around a major joint project; and at European level, in a maximum number of Member States so as to increase its impact.

The integrated communication campaigns should have a significant impact that can be measured through external and internal objectively verifiable indicators which should be set-up taking into account SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-oriented) criteria.

The campaigns should include several of the following communication activities or tools:
— Production and distribution of multimedia or audiovisual material.
— Production and distribution of printed material (publications, posters, etc).
— Setting-up internet and social network tools.
— Media events.
— Conferences, seminars or workshops.
— Events of the ‘city farm’ type which help to explain the importance of agriculture to the urban population.
— Events of the ‘open doors’ type which aim to show citizens the role of agriculture.
— Static or mobile exhibitions or information points.

Target groups are the general public (with a special focus on young people in urban areas), the media, civil society and the main players in the rural sector.

This call concerns information measures to be implemented (including preparation, performance, follow-up and evaluation) between 1 March 2013 and 28 February 2014.

The overall budget is €3 million. The total amount of grant requested from the Commission must be between €100,000 and €500,000 per grant agreement. The maximum EU contribution will be 50% of eligible costs.

The deadline for applications is 31 October 2012.

Reference: 2012/C 223/04

(Added 2012-07-27)