Midterm evaluation of EEA & Norway Grants local development programmes (2014-2021 Financial Mechanism)

Roderick Ackermann (Evalutility) was a core member of the evaluation team led by Blomeyer & Sanz. The evaluation, which covered ten beneficiary countries, found that the local development programmes have demonstrated substantive potential to initiate structural change at community level by fostering inclusive multi‑stakeholder partnerships and capacity‑building, although efforts were diluted somewhat by broad objectives and under‑capitalized systemic change. The evaluation recommended extending project timelines, increasing the use of open calls to better reach diverse vulnerable groups, strengthening collaboration with local government and private sectors, and enhancing bilateral cooperation mechanisms to maximize long‑term impact and sustainability.