Projects for the development of tourism in the border regions of Bulgaria and Serbia will be financed with over 8.5 million euros

158 organizations from Bulgaria and Serbia participate in 43 project ideas submitted within the Call for Concepts for Project Proposals under the Territorial Strategy of the Program (INTERREG VI-A) IPP Bulgaria - Serbia 2021-2027. The governing body - Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works announced the invitation in June this year. Within the framework of Specific objective 2 "Improving regional competitiveness, including in the field of tourism", projects with a total value of 8.5 million euros will be financed. The program region includes the territory of Vidin, Montana, Vratsa, Sofia region, Pernik and Kyustendil in Bulgaria, as well as the Bor, Zaichar, Toplica, Nishava, Pirot, Jablanica and Pcinja regions in Serbia.

Most of the concepts are focused on various activities related to tourism development. Among them are the development of new integrated regional tourism products, restoration, preservation and display of cultural heritage sites, support for natural tourism sites, investment in infrastructure and facilities, strengthening the links between natural and cultural sites, including their connectivity and mobility, training of staff at tourist attractions, improving tourism marketing practices and branding the cross-border region.

Most project concept proposals are developed in partnerships with an average of 4 participants representing local/regional authorities and authorities, regional and sectoral development agencies, business support organisations, NGOs, academic, research, training, educational, social and cultural institutions. The diversity and scope of project efforts are expected to strengthen ties between different areas and communities on both sides of the border, as well as contribute to the economic development of the area.

After review and approval of submitted concepts by the Program's Territorial Strategy Management Board, the best project ideas that contribute to the achievement of the strategy will be able to proceed to the next stage with the development of full project proposals to be funded under the Program (INTERREG VI-A) IPA Bulgaria - Serbia 2021-2027.