The cooperation measure for Swedish LAG:s Josefina Andersson LAG Terra et Mare Swedish Rural Network

LAGs in Sweden and cooperation modalities 63 LAGs in Sweden (9 million inhabitants) All LAGs are non-profit organisations LAGs have to be project owner – but practical implementation can be done by organisations or other actors in the area. Example: Local Food For Local Developement

Funding for cooperation ”The cooperation provision” The total national cooperation budget is distributed on the 63 LAGs = no national budget to apply from. 25% of the coopartaion provision budget is allowed for preparatory step in cooperation. ”Umbrella – projects” enabels preparations, study-visits etc

Selection of cooperation projects Same rules as for other Leader projects: LAG decides along with their strategies -> the Country Administrative Board confirm decision. Difficulties/consequences from the Swedish angle: Other countries have to apply from national cooperation budget, which can delay the start of the transnational projects..

Network cheques ”Network cheques” – extra funding from the Swedish Rural Network Up to SEK (approx EUR) for preparatory step in cooperation / LAG Ended in december 2011 Example: Leader West Småland made study visit to France to investigate possible cooperation in sustainable developement, youth and entrepreneurship