Let's Make a Difference by Taking an Innovative Approach

INTER-MUNICIPAL COOPERATION INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT NETWORK

OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION „LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH“

WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014 – 2016 The Inclusive Development Network of the Vardar Planning Region express its gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for the technical and financial support provided during the preparation of this publication. Table of contents

I. DEVELOPMENTAL FEATURES OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION

II. PROFILE OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT NETWORK

III. METHODOLOGY FOR PREPARATION OF THE WORK PROGRAMME OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT NETWORK 1. STAGE: MAPPING AND EVALUATION OF PLATFORMS FOR GOVERNANCE, SERVICE DELIVERY AND CAPACITY- BUILDING OF STAKEHOLDERS IN THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2. STAGE: GATHERING SUGGESTIONS FROM STAKEHOLDERS 3. STAGE: ASSESSMENTS, GROUPING OF FINDINGS, SPECIFYING THE MEASURES AND ACTIVITIES AND FINAL PREPARATION OF THE PROGRAMME

IV. PRIORITY MEASURES AND COLLECTIVE ACTIONS 1. MEASURE: CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES FOR RAPID LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 2. MEASURE: CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES FOR MORE EFFICIENT AND MORE EFFECTIVE SOCIAL PROTECTION, CHILDCARE AND SOCIAL INCLUSION 3. MEASURE: CAPACITY-DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES FOR MORE EFFICIENT AND MORE EFFECTIVE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

V. MODALITIES FOR FINANCING PRIORITY COLLECTIVE ACTIONS

ANEX

DEVELOPMENTAL FEATURES OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 6 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

The Vardar Planning Region comprises the central part of the Republic of Mace- donia, extending along the River Vardar and the Ovche Pole Valley and covering 16.2% of the total territory of the country. According to data from 2012, the Re- gion includes 7.5% of the country’s total population, making it the most sparsely populated region in the country, with only 38 inhabitants per km2. The Region has an abundance of rivers and lakes and enjoys favourable weather conditions due to the influence of the Mediterranean climate which enters this Region along the valley of the River Vardar. Together with the specific geomorphologic config- uration of the terrain, this makes the Region highly suitable for the production of fruit and wine. Indeed, most of the country’s wineries and processing facilities for wines are concentrated here. Another important local resource is ferronickel, and the mining and processing of these ore deposits are important for this Region.

SVETI NIKOLE

VELES LOZOVO

CASKA GRADSKO

NEGOTINO ROSOMAN

DEMIR KAPIJA

KAVADARCI WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 7 - - - - 100 2012 struc in % ture 33.1 1.6 0.5 4.4 60.4 - ment (in %) ment 7,2 11,1 11,3 11,9 13,2 13,3 14,7 17,3 Proportion of state aid state of Proportion develop regional for 100 2011 struc 2011 in % ture 34.6 0.4 0.0 4.3 60.7 5.00 Growt Growt % 0.5 349.2 6.2 4.5 1,855 2,054 2,408 Coefficient relative to to relative Coefficient the with Region the average highest 1,000 1,555 1,571 1,656 1,833 617,114,991 29,745,905 9,416,695 81,921,219 1,126,755,702 1,864,954,511 2012 614,161,527 6,622,593 77,142,188 1,078,228,319 1,776,154,626 2011 81,4 73,5 62,7 Development index index Development average the to relative RM of 151,0 97,1 96,1 91,2 82,4 Sources of funding for VPR municipalities in 2012 and 2011 (in MKD) 2012 and in for VPR municipalities of funding Sources 2013–2017 development levels 2013–2017 development Self-financing Grants State Total Revenues per accounts per Revenues budget municipal Core Donations Loans East Pelagonia Polog Southwest Vardar Northeast Planning Region Planning Skopje Southeast In 2012, the share of the revenues of all the municipalities of the Vardar Planning Planning Vardar the of municipalities the all of revenues the of share the 2012, In to 2011 (0.38%). compared 0.40%, a GDP slight increase was in national Region 2012. to 2011 about 5% from by increased revenues municipal Total 2: TABLE TABLE 1: TABLE Pursuant Pursuant to the Decision on the Classification of Planning Regions in Macedo nia to according the development indices for the period from 2013 to 2017, the Vardar Planning Region is situated in 7th place in terms of its level of develop Regions. of 8 Planning group the ment within 8 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

The highest revenues are realized in urban municipalities, accounting for 88% of the total revenues for the Region. Overall, 93% of tax revenues in the Region are realized in urban areas, while the remaining 7% are realized in rural areas.

In 2012, a decline of 14% was recorded in the collection of property taxes and taxes on specific services. Revenues from the collection of property taxes decreased by 21% compared to 2011. In the overall structure of tax revenues, property taxes accounted for 36% in 2012 compared to 39% in the previous year. Revenues from taxes on specific services, i.e. municipal taxes and fees collected for land development, accounted for 57% and decreased by 12%. However, increased re- covery was recorded for income tax, profit tax and capital gains tax, as well as for exploitation fees and business activity permit fees.

TABLE 3: Municipalities’ expenditures in 2011 and 2012

2011 2012 Growth 2011 2012 structure structure Salaries and allow- 1,010,556,150 1,019,199,058 0.9 57.6 55.3 ances Reserves and unspec- 2,060,568 1,823,346 -11.5 0.1 0.1 ified expenses Goods and services 465,783,175 527,759,981 13.3 26.5 28.6 Interest 11,658 356 -96.9 0.0 0.0 Subsidies and 46,455,835 59,155,197 27.3 2.6 3.2 transfers Social benefits 2,526,555 4,283,197 69.5 0.1 0.2 Capital expenditures 227,456,744 231,985,103 2.0 13.0 12.6 Total 1,754,850,684 1,844,208,249 5.1 100 100

About 88% of the total expenditures of the municipalities in the Region are realized in urban areas.

The largest increase in municipal expenditures in 2012 was for programmes supporting local economic development. This 164% rise in spending on economic development is a positive phenomenon, since in the long run these costs should generate higher revenues for municipalities by creating a better business climate and increasing employment opportunities. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 9 - - and quality of public services offered. services and quality of public expenditure for these programmes amounts to almost 91%, mostly in the financ the in mostly 91%, almost to amounts programmes these for expenditure (59.3%). of primary education ing programmes certain Region, Planning In some of in the the municipalities Vardar are simply not offered due to the lack of institutions transferred to rural munici quantity types, the in disparities creating culture), and childcare as (such palities On average, the municipalities of the Region finance 34% of their expenditures from their own sources, while 60% are financed from grants. These grants are mostly being used for and on expenditures in culture education, childcare urban areas, amounting to 89% of grant funds. The share of the central government in II

PROFILE OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT NETWORK 11

The establishment of the Network for Inclusive Development of the Vardar Plan- WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 ning Region is a joint initiative of the Centre for Development of the Vardar Region together with eight municipalities of the Region, various branches of commercial and craft chambers, and civic associations in the Region. The formal establishment and initial operation of the Network was technically and financially support- ed by the UNDP Country Office in Skopje, the Centre for Development of the Vardar Planning Region, and eight municipalities of the Region.

The Network is a Joint Working Body established under the provisions of the Law on Inter-Municipal Cooperation and decisions made by the Municipal Councils of 8 municipalities in the Region. Its establishment is in line with the measures adopted by the three-year Action Plan for Implementation of the National Strategy for Balanced Regional Development and the five-year Planning Region Develop- ment Programme.

The mission of the Network is to strengthen the coordination of programming and implementation of measures and activities for the support of the public, private and NGO sectors in creating conditions for the development of a strong and com- petitive economy in the Region - an economy that will offer greater employment opportunities and also achieve social and environmental standards. The activities of the Network are expected to reduce the severity and consequences of the key socio-economic challenges of the Region, including high levels of unemployment and migration.

The Network should play a key role in strengthening the capacity of the public, private and civic sectors for cooperation and coordination in the implementation of priority activities, encouraging all stakeholders in local communities to actively participate in the work of local institutions on priority issues related to regional development. The Network will also work on problems and ‘bottlenecks’ such as the low capacity to absorb funds from sources conditioned by a more representative form of institutional cooperation between the local stakeholders, thus supporting the Centre for Development of VPR in coordinating and channelling investments at Planning Region level.

12 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

TABLE 4: 17 permanent members of the Network

One representative from each Municipality’s One representative from each stakeholder Local Economic Development Organizational Unit and from the VPR Development Centre • Vardar Planning Region Development • Economic Chamber of Macedonia - Veles Centre Regional Chamber • Veles Municipality • Union of Chambers of Commerce of • Kavadarci Municipality Macedonia - Regional Chamber • Negotino Municipality • Regional Chamber of Craftsmen • Sveti Nikole Municipality • Business community outside the Chambers of Commerce • Demir Kapija Municipality • Tourist Bureau - Negotino • Chashka Municipality • Centre for Education and Networking in • Lozovo Municipality Tourism - Demir Kapija • Gradsko Municipality • Civil society representative • Rosoman Municipality

Members of the Network from the municipal administration will be appointed by the mayors of the VPR municipalities, while other members will be appointed by the highest governing bodies of the represented institutions / organizations. The VPR civil society representative will be elected by the NGOs in a meeting organized for this purpose. The Working Body may proceed with its work when the session is attended by the majority of members of the Working Body (at least 9 Members) and shall decide by a majority vote of the Members present. The Working Body shall report to the mayors of the municipalities involved and inform them on its work through regular reports. Semi-annual reports on the work of the Working Body shall also be submitted to the Vardar Planning Region Development Council.

The Main Office of the VPR Inclusive Development Network is located in the for- mer building of Radio Veles and will also be used as a Main Office of the branch chambers of commerce and citizens’ associations which have shared Network representatives. III

METHODOLOGY FOR PREPARATION OF THE WORK PROGRAMME OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT NETWORK 14 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

In the preparation of this Programme, some ten innovative research tools were used, covering over 700 representatives of local stakeholders and leading beneficiaries of the Programme. This approach ensured the obtainment of an accu- rate insight into the needs of local communities and a difference was made with respect to the previous method of preparing similar programming and planning documents. The primary principle according to which the Programme was prepared was the principle of participation.

The Work Programme of the Vardar Planning Region Inclusive Development Net- work was drafted in 3 stages:

1 STAGE: Mapping and evaluation of platforms for governance, service delivery and capacity- building of stakeholders in the Vardar Planning Region

2 STAGE: Gathering suggestions from stakeholders

3 STAGE: Assessments, grouping of findings, specifying the measures and activities and final preparation of the Programme STAGE 1

MAPPING AND EVALUATION OF PLATFORMS FOR GOVERNANCE, SERVICE DELIVERY AND CAPACITY- BUILDING OF STAKEHOLDERS IN THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION

The first stage of Programme preparation was conducted in parallel with the initial stages of the procedure for the formation of a joint Working Body, i.e. the Inclusive Development Network, and was realized in the last quarter of 2012 using the following tools.

DESK RESEARCH

The mapping started with desk research and comparative analysis of the objec- tives and measures and activities in the Strategies for Local Economic Develop- ment (LED) and other current policies developed at municipal, regional and national levels and relevant to the local and regional development of the Vardar Planning Region. Based on the comparative data, a comprehensive analysis of the Region was conducted in three areas:

• Local economic development, • Environment • Social welfare, child protection and social inclusion. 16 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

FIELD RESEARCH THROUGH DIRECT INTERVIEWS

The purpose of the field research through direct interviews was to validate and expand upon the findings of the desk research. The questionnaire for the interviews was structured in such a way that it collected data on the key needs of stakeholders in the Vardar Planning Region and examined their cooperation, communication and attitudes to opportunities for networking. Three people from the private sector were interviewed, as well as 9 representatives of local government, 4 representatives of civil society and 4 institutions from other local sectors.

The data were analysed and an initial diagnosis of the situation was made. The interviews enabled a more detailed assessment to be made of the level of application of the key good local governance principles: accountability, transparency and participation.

WORK WITH FOCUS GROUPS

Three focus groups were formed at regional level, each consisting of representatives from the private, public and civil sectors, and meetings were held to discuss issues related to local economic development, environment and social inclusion. The meetings resulted in additional findings regarding the key challenges and priority needs.

KEY FINDINGS

In terms of local economic development, it is obvious that VPR municipalities have limited resources and capacities and are not able to provide greater stimula- tion of the local economy. The common perception of the respondents is that the main champion of economic growth is the private sector. However, in order to improve the potential of the private sector, both central and local governments need to provide more numerous and more effective services. Municipal organizational units for local economic development and the Centre for Development of VPR have the appropriate competencies but lack the human and financial resources. One of the key findings that validated the need to create a Network of Inclusive Development is the clearly expressed need for better coordination between the private sector and local government and Planning Region bodies. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 17 ------as a responsibility shared shared responsibility a as , a joint conclusion of the suggests that overall devel environmental protection environmental structural structural links and modalities of cooperation among social social protection and social inclusion pecially pecially true for the rural municipalities of the Vardar Planning more Region, implement to unable them renders revenues own whose their raise to capacity low complex investments. At the same time, central government investments in the Analysis Analysis of the existing relevant regarding stakeholders local development opment at local and Planning Region levels is almost totally dependent on the central government. For a considerable period of time, all major development investments in local communities have been implemented exclusively by competent authorities of the the state administration and state agencies. This is es between between municipalities and the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning. to According the respondents, this area of is competence appropriate for almost substan invest to necessary still it is However, level. at local implementation full tially in building the capacities of local stakeholders (municipalities, NGOs, the funding. local sustainable provide and to sector) private Inter-municipal Inter-municipal cooperation was regarded as one of the possible modalities for implementing these competencies in the phase of their complete transition to local level, especially in view of the need to cover the population in rural areas services. appropriate with understand respondents The tor are better positioned than the central government to deal with issues of unem of issues with deal to government central the than positioned better are tor protection social of level higher a provide can they that and poverty and ployment about reservations expressed also they however, time, same the At inclusion. and ensure to found are solutions appropriate unless responsibilities these accepting their implementation. for funding stable tions. tions. The Ministry of Labour and Social Policy realizes its social protection pro Nikole) Sveti and Negotino Kavadarci, (Veles, offices branch the through grammes the of Most Agency. Service Employment the and Centres Protection Social the of respondents were aware of the possibility of a gradual transfer of these respon sibilities to municipalities, including their de-institutionalization. Almost all the sec private the and NGOs municipalities, that believe unequivocally respondents With With regard to respondents is that, due to almost all powers remaining centralized—with only a few exceptions, such as kindergartens in major urban municipalities—all the municipalities make only relatively small investments to improve social condi 18 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

development infrastructure follow the logic of addressing the needs of the majority of the population and focus on urban areas where business activities are concentrated. These disparities are again partially addressed by the central government through its strengthened budget for the support of measures for agricultural and rural development. The principle of funding by block grants for social services (primary and secondary education, child protection and culture) now works only in municipalities that have transferred institutions, but they also have objections as to the sufficiency of the transferred funds and are forced to cover the fiscal gap from their own revenues.

The general impression is that coordination at vertical and horizontal levels is insufficient and that improving coordination can only positively influence the implementation of all activities aimed at rapid local and regional development. The respondents confirm the existence of more efficient vertical relationships between institutions and more regular communication in urban communities. A key factor here is that national institutions are present in urban communities through their branches and offices and are well informed about the local conditions in the area they cover. However, the need for formal or informal platforms that will serve for mutual information and coordination of all stakeholders is evident. Conse- quently, all respondents without exception welcomed the initiative of the Centre for Development of Vardar Planning Region and local stakeholders to form a joint Working Body, i.e. a Network for Inclusive Development, pursuant to the Law on Inter-Municipal Cooperation.

The respondents see the creation of the Network as an effective means of improving interaction among actors from different areas and levels of government and recognize the possibility it offers for more complete utilization of the human and material resources at their disposal in order to ensure a common approach and reach sustainable solutions for rapid local and regional development. STAGE 2

GATHERING SUGGESTIONS FROM STAKEHOLDERS

The second stage in the preparation of the Network Programme was carried out in the period from July to early September 2013, immediately after the formal establishment of the Network for Inclusive Development of the VPR as a joint Working Body of the municipalities in VPR.

In order to reach out to every single citizen in the Vardar Planning Region, the Network applied a series of research tools and techniques, including:

• Online crowdsourcing, achieved by posting a short questionnaire on the website of the Centre for Development of the VPR (banners linked to the site were posted on the websites of all municipalities and other sites of local NGOs, private companies, etc.). • A hotline, established at the Centre for Development of the VPR. • A dedicated e-mail address created for this purpose on the VPR Development Centre’s domain. 20 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Citizens were given the opportunity to provide comments and suggestions by filling out a short questionnaire. The public were informed of this opportunity through a call posted on the bulletin-boards of municipal administrative buildings and local public enterprises. The call was also circulated on local media (local TV stations, radio channels, newsletters, etc.). Links to the public call and the questionnaire were sent personally by the members of the Network (from their own mailing lists) to stakeholders (citizens, the business sector, NGOs, etc.).

By applying the Method of Leading Users, individuals with relevant practical experience, in-depth knowledge and a strong interest in the area that is the subject of the Programme were identified and interviewed. Individual interviews were conducted with community leaders and focus-group meetings were held with the assistance of the most active NGOs working with vulnerable groups.

In this phase, the questionnaire for self-evaluation of sustainable local development was applied (i.e. Self-Assessment Tool for Sustainable Local Development - SAT4SLD). This tool was developed by UNDP and enabled local stakeholders to assess their current situation and build a consensus as to the collective actions that need to be taken to ensure sustainable local development by simultaneously addressing governance, socio-economic and environmental issues.

Between 16 and 26 September 2013, a total of 242 questionnaires were com- pleted in the Vardar Planning Region with regard to the four modules. The results of the self-evaluation assessment for sustainable local development at regional level are shown in the following Figure.

The results presented in the Figure below identify several lower-ranking areas, as follows:

• sustainable agriculture, • social cohesion, • integration of business • workforce WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 21

GENDER EQUALITY ADMINISTRATIVE AND ADMINISTRATIVE NGO LANDSCAPE PROCUREMENT SUPPORTING SERVICES SUPPORTING SOCIAL COHESION FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PLANNING, INFRASTRUCTURE, PLANNING, INFRASTRUCTURE, VOICE AND PARTICIPATION VOICE INVESTMENTS, AND LAND DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS, 1.50 3.50 1.00 4.50 2.50 0.50 5.00 3.00 4.00 2.00 0.00 BASIC SOCIAL SERVICES BASIC BUSINESS SUPPORT SERVICES SUPPORT BUSINESS WORKFORCE SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE SUSTAINABLE INTEGRATION OF BUSINESS INTEGRATION ADAPTATION BUSINESS LANDSCAPE BUSINESS SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SUSTAINABLE RESOURCES DISASTER RISK REDUCTION AND CLIMATE RISK REDUCTION AND CLIMATE DISASTER MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL OF NATURAL MANAGEMENT 3 STAGE

ASSESSMENTS, GROUPING OF FINDINGS, SPECIFYING THE MEASURES AND ACTIVITIES AND FINAL PREPARATION OF THE PROGRAMME

The third and final stage in the preparation of the Network Programme was implemented from the second half of September to the end of October 2013.

Having collected comments and suggestions from stakeholders, the Network in its wider composition considered this information and made an initial assessment, grouping the proposals into categories and areas to be discussed at a two- day Smart Camp entitled “Innovation for Inclusive Development” held in Ohrid from 30 September to 1 October 2013 with the participation of 50 representatives of stakeholders from the Region and the National IMC Commission (consisting of representatives of the line Ministries and other Planning Regions).

Using the applied tools, 133 suggestions and ideas were collected, of which ap- proximately a third were selected for discussion and elaboration during the Smart Camp. 23 WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 TABLE 5: Suggestions and ideas for collective actions

Municipality Public sector Private sector NGO-Civil sector Total

Veles 11 6 22 39

Negotino 8 5 17 30

Chashka 4 6 22 32

Gradsko 1 2 4 7

Kavadarci / 2 9 11

Demir Kapija 2 4 6

Rosoman 1 / 5 6

Lozovo 2 / / 2

Total: 133

During the Smart Camp, the need for joint collective action by the main groups of actors was reiterated. Such collective action is vital because the complex challenges of sustainability cannot be addressed by any single actor. This final con- sultation event resulted in:

• joint formulation of the challenges identified through the answers to the self-evaluation questionnaire for sustainable local development (SAT4SLD) • joint definition of the goals and key measures of the Network Programme • joint proposition of priority collective actions (as an approach derived from the tool SAT4SLD) 24 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Three specific measures were formulated. For each of these measures, collective actions were selected on the basis of the following criteria:

iv. The proposed collective action should match the mandate and the mission, i.e. the goals of the Network for Inclusive Development.

v. Proposals that include at least two of the three main groups of Network Members, such as the municipalities, the private sector and NGOs, can be considered priority proposals. (These proposals should imply a partnership for their implementation).

vi. In terms of collective action feasibility, actions not requiring a budget larger than EUR 300,000 may be considered as priority actions.

vii. Actions aimed at enhancing economic development by simultaneously providing support to the private sector and creating opportunities for greater social inclusion that have a positive impact on the quality of the environment may be determined as priority actions. IV

PRIORITY MEASURES AND COLLECTIVE ACTIONS 1 MEASURE

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES FOR RAPID LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

According to the information obtained during the assessment of the current situation in the municipalities of the Vardar Planning Region, the larger urban municipalities in the Region have a Department for Local Economic Development. These departments are where they plan local economic development, determine structural and developmental priorities, develop local economic policies and support the development of SMEs and entrepreneurship at local level. It is in this context that they participate in the establishment and development of the local Network of Institutions and Agencies and promote partnership. Smaller rural communities often have only one person responsible for these tasks, and this person typically also has other responsibilities and obligations in the municipality. The reason for this is the acute shortage of human and financial resources in rural municipalities.

The municipal staff in the Region is aware of the economic potential of their municipalities. However, information about the local economy is not gathered sys- tematically and effectively and is not easily accessible. For example, municipalities do have easy access to data about all the businesses in their community, 27 although that information is recorded in the Tax Department. Moreover, there WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 are currently no databases of all the individual ‘greenfield’ and ‘brownfield’ sites available in the municipalities. Such databases could be managed by the Depart- ment for Local Economic Development to promote investment. Information of this kind has proven valuable in the past by providing much-needed support for national efforts to attract foreign investments

The Republic of Macedonia, in comparison with other countries in the region and beyond, has a number of comparative advantages for investment and doing business. These advantages include excellent financial incentives, a skilled workforce, an excellent location, target sectors, the lowest operating costs in Europe, and some successful examples of previous foreign investments. All these advantages help to increase the competitiveness of services and products in the private sector. The main challenge is to convey the message to potential foreign investors that the Republic of Macedonia offers these excellent benefits.

From the field assessments, it can be concluded that inter-municipal cooperation among the Departments for Local Economic Development has not been ad- equately stepped up. There is not enough exchange of ideas and experiences. Cooperation on certain project activities and in seeking joint investors at regional level is lacking. Altogether, there is insufficient synchronization and cooperation on the part of the regional community. The VPR Inclusive Development Network has been established with the aim of addressing these shortcomings.

The young unemployed people in the Region are the key target group for the Network. It is to their needs, above all, that the Network will devote its greatest attention.

Four of the nine VPR municipalities have local strategies for youth (Veles, Kavadar- ci, Negotino and Sveti Nikole) and additional capacity in the civil sector for activities to meet the needs of young people. The need to implement quality measures to support and promote youth employment is common to all these strategies. 28 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Young people In the Vardar Planning Region suffer from a lack of information about the opportunities available to open their own businesses, gain access to finance and receive support in terms of technology transfer. This absence of information necessitates the promotion of entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities through access to networks that support such initiatives. The Re- gion also lacks any career centres in secondary vocational schools, and there is no centre for new businesses that could serve as ‘business incubators’ to support newly established companies.

COLLECTIVE ACTIONS

CA 1.1 Creation of a Planning Region level database that contains information on local companies and available "greenfield" and "brownfield" sites through the VPR Development Centre's website, and publication of a Guide for Investors with data on the labour market in the Region, including contact information for services that support business investments, e.g. , accountants, lawyers, etc. CA 1.2 Creation of an electronic portal for youth on the VPR Development Centre's website, containing information about institutional support for young people, as well as the participation opportunities for youth in the local governance CA 1.3 Support and promotion of recognizable, high - profile and tourist events in VPR CA 1.4 Upgrade of the website of the VPR Development Centre, by establishing a portal with information and open calls suitable for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) CA 1.5 Construction of Info Points for transit and alternative tourism CA 1.6 Establishment of a form of inter-municipal cooperation for the development and promotion of rural tourism and the implementation of LEADER measures CA 1.7 Services for the formation and support of cluster association and organization WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 29 - - - - calls, primarily in the area of pre-accession assistance of pre-accession in the area primarily calls, Partnerships of a Public-Private Establishment of real use making entrepreneurship, on social sessions Information examples and use input of databases, Creation Mentoring the development of realistic project applications for current current for applications project of realistic the development Mentoring • • • • ment of 4 capital facilities (industrial zones and other capital facilities of facilities and other capital zones (industrial facilities ment of 4 capital development) and regional the economy to importance Promotion of conditions and opportunities to build a regional centre for for centre a regional build to and opportunities of conditions Promotion fruit and vegetables and marketing packaging cooling, classifying, buying, develop the infrastructure and starting documentation technical Preparing Implementation of an action to employ the five best students in the Region in the Region students best the five employ of an action to Implementation enterprises in local Priority training Organization of Info Workshops on how to register as an independent crafts an independent as register to on how Workshops of Info Organization of Crafts) Chamber the Regional by (initiated person do to and medium enterprises of small and connectivity access Enabling of B2B meetings organization and markets and foreign mestic origin, in accor geographical with of products protection the for Services Potential Protection with Products Agricultural for VPR's Strategy with dance Promotion of innovative business ideas and research through centres for for centres through and research ideas business of innovative Promotion etc.) parks, technology incubators, business (i.e. new businesses supporting VPR municipalities of the in each CA 1.14: CA 1.15: CA 1.12 CA 1.13 CA 1.9 CA 1.10 CA 1.11 CA 1.8 2 MEASURE

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES FOR MORE EFFICIENT AND MORE EFFECTIVE SOCIAL PROTECTION, CHILDCARE AND SOCIAL INCLUSION

The decentralization of social protection and childcare has already started and is expected to continue in the future, especially in terms of competencies related to social protection and social inclusion. At present, only kindergartens and certain day-care centres for people with special needs have been transferred to the management of the municipalities, although some of these services were already provided in larger urban municipalities. In the Vardar Planning Region there is no public institution or home for the care of the elderly.

In the upcoming period, municipalities will need to prepare themselves for taking on these responsibilities. The first step will be for municipalities to create multi-sectoral councils at horizontal level for different areas such as social prevention, employment, etc.). It is strongly advised that municipalities include representatives from civil society in this process, particularly NGOs with knowledge and experience in this area, as well as the private sector through the corporate social responsibility component. This component is a new trend in modern business mainstreams and expresses the willingness of the private sector to return some of its profits to the local community, using the opportunities provided by the Law on Donations and Sponsorships (Official Gazette 47/2006, 86/2008). 31

Examples of successful cooperation between municipalities and civil society can WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 be found in the Municipalities of Negotino, Veles, Gradsko and Chashka. In Nego- tino, the Civil Society Organization ‘Message’ cares for people with disabilities. In Veles, the ‘Focus’ Foundation implements a delegated responsibility involving the general public in debates about the municipal budgets of the Municipalities of Veles and Gradsko. In addition to these civil society organizations, other organizations are active in this area at local level in the VPR without having established specific forms of cooperation with municipalities. Promoting, supporting and rep- licating these examples can greatly help municipal administrations to meet their responsibilities.

In the three municipalities of Chashka, Rosoman and Gradsko there is still no provision of nursery care or education for preschool children, while in those municipalities of the VPR where nurseries do exist, most suffer from a lack of space. This lack of kindergartens can be overcome through cooperation with the private sector and civil society. The latest Government measures are precisely aimed at providing incentives for private sector investments and the creation of appropriate forms of social partnerships for child protection. Kindergartens and other forms of temporary care for preschool children in rural areas are needed to enable mothers to gain employment or self-employment (in agro-business activities, and other opportunities for income generation). Without opportunities for the daytime care of their children, mothers in rural areas will continue to remain unable and unwilling to obtain unemployment.

Vulnerable groups are a special category of people to whom the Inclusive Devel- opment Network will pay special attention since it is these people who most often face social exclusion. Subgroups within this category of vulnerable people include the following: persons with disabilities; children without parental care; children with mental and physical impairments; children living and working on the streets; children with educational and social problems; children in single-parent families; persons at social risk; persons affected by abuse of substances, other psychotro- pic substances, precursors and alcohol; victims of domestic violence; victims of trafficking; and elderly people without family care. In terms of employment, even adults who do not yet qualify for regular retirement (typically workers who have been made redundant) and youth with limited employment opportunities can be considered as vulnerable groups. 32 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

In general, the municipalities of the Region do very little to ensure these vulnerable groups are involved in the processes of good governance (i.e., decision-making, local budgeting and the implementation of decisions). The main reasons for this lack of inclusion are as follows: the lack of defined procedures for including these groups (i.e. an absence of system solutions, particularly in the area of mapping such solutions and maintaining related databases); a lack of sufficient knowledge and human capacity in the institutions; a lack of sufficient funds to deliver these solutions; and the incomplete decentralization of social protection.

Communication with vulnerable groups of citizens is usually established only if they turn to the Municipality for specific assistance. These citizens are not directly invited to particpate in preparing documents or in creating local plans and projects, partly because they lack effective organizations. Such organizations require considerable resources that may not be available. In this area, municipalities could rely much more actively on the capacities of certain civil society organizations and foundations in the Region, including, for example, the following organizations: “Message” - Negotino (for the disabled); the Focus Foundation - Veles (in the area of transparency, people with disabilities and other areas of social inclusion); “Zone” - Kavadarci (social and health prevention); “CPJD” - Kavadarci (social and health prevention and juvenile delinquency); “Probaton 2005” - Sveti Nikole (youth and people with special needs); “Villa Zora” - Veles (environment protection); “Green Power” - Veles (environment protection); and other smaller organizations working with people with special needs (CSOs of the blind, the deaf, people with cerebral palsy, etc.), Roma associations, sports associations, NGOs in the field of culture and others.

It is realistic to expect local institutions to provide much better care for vulnerable groups. To do so, however, requires the transfer of appropriate funds. So far, this process has started in the area of kindergartens, shelters and day-care centres for people with disabilities and people with drug problems. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 33 horizontal advisory and coordinating bodies at local and regional and regional at local bodies and coordinating advisory horizontal levels level at regional stories of success and replication Promotion groups and vulnerable inclusion Social policy-making, local gender-sensitive budgeting, Gender-responsive on men and of policies impact the different monitor to and ways women of the potential activities) of the potential the inclusion for of tools and application of mechanisms Creation (in the development processes in planning groups of vulnerable of Local processes in the budgeting and documents) of planning Units Government of and the creation administrations in municipal Capacity-building Organized service for the elderly that will provide help to the elderly at the elderly help to provide will that the elderly for service Organized of one an illustration (as supplies and medicine of food home in terms • • • • • • Priority training Construction and adaptation of already existing public buildings for the for buildings public existing of already and adaptation Construction in the Region elderly areas in rural childcare preschool for and programmes Support activities to to partnerships and social cooperation of inter-municipal Establishment groups vulnerable for care provide Creation of a Regional Centre for Innovative Social Services and Partnerships and Partnerships Services Social Innovative for Centre of a Regional Creation Municipality in Kavadarci the of a home for the construction for study of a pre-feasibility Preparation Partnership a Public-Private in the VPR through elderly CA 2.6 CA 2.3: CA 2.4 CA 2.5 CA 2.1 CA 2.2 UNICEF project) which operates as a horizontal multi-sectoral body. multi-sectoral a horizontal as operates which UNICEF project) ACTIONS COLLECTIVE The The creation of horizontal would local sphere (or social regional) the in bodies (commissions, stakeholders councils all or of coordination the for groups) working the is example positive A inclusion. social improving towards step significant a be a by (established Kavadarci of in Municipality the Delinquency Juvenile of Council 3 MEASURE

CAPACITY-DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES FOR MORE EFFICIENT AND MORE EFFECTIVE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

The protection of environment and nature, measures for the protection and prevention of pollution of water, air and land, nature conservation, protection from noise and non-ionizing radiation are all areas implemented in the municipalities of the Region mostly as an integrated part of the Departments for Urban Planning and/or the Utilities/Utility Infrastructure. Examples of this are found in the municipalities of Demir Kapija, Negotino, Kavadarci, Lozovo, Sveti Nikole, Chashka and Veles. All VPR municipalities have appointed officials responsible for the environment (inspectors or advisors). The number of these officials, however, is usually insufficient for the timely and full implementation of all the tasks and activities arising from legal provisions. In many cases, too, the officials have other responsibilities with the Department for Urban Planning. 35

The Vardar Planning Region has forms of heavy industry which are possible sourc- WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 es of environmental pollution unless the measures prescribed in the legislation for the protection of the environment and nature are implemented. As an illustration, due to the operation of the Veles Smelter in the past, the area of Veles and its surroundings had a negative image as an environmental hotspot and this image caused difficulties in the marketing of agricultural products, with negative consequences for the development of agriculture.

The protection and management of water are also priority needs for the local population, especially in rural areas. Inadequate management of water has a negative effect on revenue generation from agriculture. In addition, lack of sanitation and inadequate wastewater management has negative effects on drinking water. In the Municipality of Chashka, for example, this problem is found in villages located along the upper course of the River Topolka which flows into the “Lisiche” hydro system that supplies Veles with drinking water. The second major regional hydro system, Lake Tikvesh, suffers from the constant negative impact of wastewater, industry and the use of inappropriate agricultural practices.

None of the municipalities in the VPR have regulated landfills for solid commu- nal waste in accordance with the established standards. At the Planning Region level, there is an initiative to plan solid waste management and a study has been prepared on the Implementation of a Modern System of Waste Management in accordance with the environmental standards of the European Union. The implementation of regional solid waste management is one of the highest infrastructur- al priorities of the Region.

The organizational and functional aspect of environmental protection is the greatest challenge for small rural municipalities in the Region and indicates the need for merging financial and human resources through establishment of appropriate forms of inter-municipal cooperation.

Inter-municipal cooperation provides many benefits for municipalities, especially in providing public services without unnecessarily burdening municipal budgets through new hires. Inter-municipal cooperation among smaller (rural) municipalities can enable the provision of necessary services at a reasonable price. 36 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

The joint Administrative Department for Energy Efficiency formed by the 8 municipalities in the VPR (with 2 employees) is an excellent example of inter-municipal cooperation in the Region. This body is already enabling municipalities to start implementing their local responsibilities for energy efficiency for the first time and to deliver appropriate services (preparation of planning documents in this area, assessments, energy-efficiency projects in public sector facilities, etc.) for a much lower and thus affordable price.

COLLECTIVE ACTIONS

CA 3.1 Creating innovative forms of inter-municipal cooperation and public-private partnerships for environmental protection (solid waste and waste-water management, use of bio-degradable waste from viticulture, management of protected areas, application of the LEADER approach - local action groups for rural development, assistance to farmers in the application of agri-environmental measures, etc.) CA 3.2 Development of 3 recreation sites and zones with natural rarities of regional significance CA 3.3 Demonstrating the eco-labelling procedure in the VPR in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning CA 3.4 Priority training • Application of environmental standard ISO 14000 • Implementation of legal provisions by municipalities and the business community (IPPC, Elaborate Studies for Environmental Protection, Strategic Environmental Impact Assessments, Waste Management Plans, etc.) • LEADER approach (links between actions for rural development) CA 3.5: Support to activities for improving energy efficiency in the VPR municipalities in accordance with the prepared Energy Efficiency Strategies and Action Plans V

MODALITIES FOR FINANCING PRIORITY COLLECTIVE ACTIONS 38 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Priority collective actions will be translated into project concepts which, according to the application needs, possibilities and conditions, will be developed into full project documents.

An institutional opportunity to finance priority collective actions (projects) from the Budget of the Republic of Macedonia will be provided through annual calls of the Bureau for Balanced Regional Development and the funds will be disbursed by the Centre for Development of the VPR.

The institutional grounds and structure of the Network also allow for combining multiple sources of funding. Moreover, the equal participation of representatives from local government, NGOs and the private sector provides access to additional sources of funding for actions that require a higher level of representation and scope of intervention.

There is a possibility of using multiple sources for funding the priority measures and collective actions of the Network’s Programme by combining them as follows:

• State Programmes financed from the State Budget through various ministries / agencies and their combination, • Local Governments Budget (co-funding), • Earmarked funds from various sectoral and thematic investment programmes and financial instruments at national level, • Assets that can be mobilized by the business sector and socially responsible companies based on donations and sponsorships, • Funds from the IPA -the EU Instrument for pre-accession assistance (the Component for Cross-Border Cooperation and the Component for Agriculture and Rural Development - IPARD, and user status in other IPA Components), • Assets and funds available and possible for mobilization by civil society, • Support from donors • Funds from the private sector ANEX 40 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

MEASURE 1: Capacity development and delivery of innovative services for rapid local economic development

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 1.1: Organizational units/ Jan. - Dec. Regular activity; Government Programme for 20,000 A database created; Investments and Creation of a database at persons responsible 2014 Project implementa- support of BRD (RD Bureau / Improved access and facilities attracted Planning Region level that for LED; tion. MLSG); more efficient data for “greenfield” and contains information on local CDVPR; Programmes of ME / APP / exchange; “brownfield” sites companies and available Local companies AFI; “greenfield” and “brown- (through their Cham- Municipal co-financing; e-Guide for Investors field” sites through the bers); Co-financing from the private published; VPR Development Centre’s Employment Service sector; Improved access and website. The publication Agency. IPA Component 2 – CBC; more efficient data of a Guide for Investors Support from donors. exchange. including data on the labour market in the Region, contact information on services for supporting business investments (e.g. accountants, lawyers, etc.) CA 1.2: CSOs; Jan. - Dec. Regular activity; Government Programme for 1,500 Youth e-portal created; Improved socio-eco- Creation of an electronic CDVPR; 2014 Project implemen- support of BRD (RD Bureau / Improved access and nomic conditions for portal for youth on the VPR Organizational units/ tation MLSG); more efficient data young people Development Centre’s web- persons responsible Programmes of relevant exchange; site, containing information for LED; ministries and agencies; Coordination of key about institutional support Local companies Municipal co-financing; stakeholders im- for young people, as well as (through their Cham- Private sector - social respon- proved. the participation opportu- bers); sibility; nities for youth in the local Project application by civil governance society; Support from donors. CA 1.3: Organizational units / 2014 - 2016 Regular activity; Ministry of Economy; 9 x 3,000 Calendar of regional Number of visits Support and promotion of persons responsible Project implemen- Government Programme =27,000 commercial and tourist increased recognizable, high-profile for LED tation for the support of BRD (RD events prepared and and tourist events in the CDVPR Bureau / MLSG); promoted; Region CSOs Municipal co-financing; Co-financing from the private Promotion and sector; recognition of events 2014 Rural Development increased. Programme; Other donors. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 41 - “brownfield” sites “brownfield” socio-eco Improved for nomic conditions people young Number of visits increased Investments and Investments attracted facilities and “greenfield” for Indicators -

Calendar of regional of regional Calendar and tourist commercial and prepared events promoted; and Promotion of events recognition increased. Youth e-portal created; Youth and access Improved data efficient more exchange; of key Coordination im stakeholders proved. A database created; created; A database and access Improved data efficient more exchange; Investors e-Guide for published; and access Improved data efficient more exchange. 9 x 3,000 =27,000 1,500 Budget (EUR) Budget 20,000 - Programme; Other donors. Municipal co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing sector; Development 2014 Rural Ministry of Economy; Ministry Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau sibility; civil by application Project society; donors. Support from ministries and agencies; ministries co-financing; Municipal respon - social sector Private Government Programme for for Programme Government / support (RD Bureau of BRD MLSG); of relevant Programmes IPA Component 2 – CBC; Component IPA donors. Support from AFI; co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing sector; support of BRD (RD Bureau / support of BRD (RD Bureau MLSG); / APP / of ME Programmes Mode of Financing of Mode for Programme Government - - -

tation Regular activity; activity; Regular implemen Project Regular activity; activity; Regular implemen Project tation Implementation activity; Regular implementa Project tion. Modalities of 2014 - 2016 Jan. - Dec. Jan. - Dec. 2014 Timeframe Jan. - Dec. 2014 - - Organizational units / units Organizational responsible persons LED for CDVPR CSOs CSOs; CSOs; CDVPR; units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for companies Local their Cham (through bers); Implementers of Activities of Implementers units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for CDVPR; companies Local Cham their (through bers); Service Employment Agency. - - - - contains information on local on local information contains and available companies and “brown “greenfield” the through sites field” Centre’s VPR Development The publication website. Investors of a Guide for on the labour data including contact in the Region, market for on services information invest supporting business accountants, ments (e.g. etc.) lawyers, CA 1.2: of an electronic Creation on the VPR portal youth for web Centre’s Development information containing site, support about institutional as well as people, young for opportu the participation in the local youth for nities governance CA 1.3: of Supportpromotion and high-profile recognizable, in the events and tourist Region Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 1.1: at of a database Creation that level Region Planning MEASURE 1: MEASURE development economic local rapid for services of innovative delivery and development Capacity 42 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 1.4: Organizational units/ Jan. - Dec. Regular activity; Government Programme for 10,000 SMEs’ e-portal created; The number of new Upgrade of the VPR Develop- persons responsible 2014 Project implementa- support of BRD (RD Bureau / Improved access and SMEs and SME users ment Centre’s website by a for LED tion. MLSG); more efficient data of local services and portal with information and CDVPR Programmes of ME / APP; exchange; state aid programmes open calls suitable for small Local companies Municipal co-financing; Coordination of key increased; and medium enterprises (through their Cham- Co-financing from the private stakeholders im- The number of jobs in (SMEs) bers) sector; proved. SMEs increased. Support from donors. CA 1.5: Organizational units/ 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- IPA Component 2 – CBC; 240,000 Three Info Points in The number of Construction of Info Points persons responsible tation Support from donors; VPR built; tourists in the Region for transit tourism for LED; Municipal co-financing; Improved access and increased; CDVPR ; Co-financing from the private more efficient data Economic benefits Local companies sector; exchange on the tourist for the private sector (through their Cham- Income from renting the offer; and municipalities bers). space to SMEs. Coordination of key increased. stakeholders improved. CA 1.6: Local government Jan. - Dec. Project implemen- Government Programme for 50,000 A joint Working Body The number of Establishment of a form of bodies in rural munici- 2014 tation support of BRD (RD Bureau / as a form of IMC estab- tourists in the Region inter-municipal cooperation palities; MLSG); lished; increased; for the development and pro- CDVPR; Programmes of ME / APP / Improved access and Economic benefits for motion of rural tourism and Local companies AFI; more efficient data the private sector and implementation of LEADER (through their Cham- Programmes of MAFWE exchange on the tourist rural communities measures bers); (agencies within the Ministry) offer; increased. CSOs from rural com- for rural development; Coordination of key munities. Municipal co-financing; stakeholders for the Co-financing from the private implementation of sector; LEADER measures IPA Component 2 – CBC; Improved. Support from donors. CA 1.7: Organizational units/ 2014 - 2016 Regular activity; Government Programme 150,000 Business clusters Economic benefits for Services for the formation persons responsible Project implementa- for the support of BRD (RD formed at the regional the private sector and and support of cluster associ- for LED; tion. Bureau / MLSG); level; municipal communi- ation and organization CDVPR; Programmes of ME / APP; Work Programmes ties increased; Local companies Municipal co-financing; prepared within each The number of jobs (through their Cham- Co-financing from the private cluster; increased. bers). sector; Improved access and IPA Component 2 – CBC; more efficient data Support from donors. exchange; Coordination of key stakeholders improved. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 43 - The number of in the Region tourists increased; benefits Economic sector the private for and municipalities increased. The number of in the Region tourists increased; benefits for Economic and sector the private communities rural increased. benefits for Economic and sector the private communi municipal increased; ties The number of jobs increased. The number of new The number users and SME SMEs and services of local aid programmes state increased; in The number of jobs increased. SMEs - Indicators - - - Business clusters at the regional formed level; Programmes Work each within prepared cluster; and access Improved data efficient more exchange; of key Coordination im stakeholders proved. Coordination of key of key Coordination im stakeholders proved. Body Working A joint estab of IMC a form as lished; and access Improved data efficient more on the tourist exchange offer; of key Coordination the for stakeholders of implementation LEADER measures Improved. SMEs’ e-portal created; SMEs’ and access Improved data efficient more exchange; of key Coordination im stakeholders proved. in Points Info Three VPR built; and access Improved data efficient more on the tourist exchange offer; 150,000 50,000 10,000 240,000 Budget (EUR) Budget Support from donors. Support from Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing sector; 2 – CBC; Component IPA for the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau of ME / APP; Programmes co-financing; Municipal sector; 2 – CBC; Component IPA donors. Support from Programme Government (agencies within the Ministry) the Ministry) within (agencies development; rural for co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing Programmes of ME / APP / Programmes AFI; of MAFWE Programmes Government Programme for for Programme Government / support (RD Bureau of BRD MLSG); sector; the renting from Income SMEs. to space IPA Component 2 – CBC; Component IPA donors; Support from co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing sector; donors. Support from support of BRD (RD Bureau / support of BRD (RD Bureau MLSG); / APP; of ME Programmes co-financing; Municipal Mode of Financing of Mode for Programme Government - - - -

Regular activity; activity; Regular implementa Project tion. tation Project implemen Project Project implemen Project tation Modalities of Implementation activity; Regular implementa Project tion. 2014 - 2016 Jan. - Dec. 2014 Jan. - Dec. 2014 2014 - 2015 Timeframe ------Organizational units/ units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for CDVPR; companies Local their Cham (through bers). bers). government Local munici in rural bodies palities; CDVPR; companies Local their Cham (through bers); com rural from CSOs munities. Organizational units/ units/ Organizational responsible persons LED for CDVPR companies Local Cham their (through bers) units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for ; CDVPR companies Local Cham their (through Implementers of Activities of Implementers - - - CA 1.5: Points of Info Construction tourism transit for CA 1.6: of of a form Establishment cooperation inter-municipal and pro the development for and tourism motion of rural of LEADER implementation measures CA 1.7: the formation for Services associ supportcluster and of ation and organization Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 1.4: Develop of the VPR Upgrade a by website ment Centre’s and information portal with small for suitable open calls and medium enterprises (SMEs) 44 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 1.8: CSOs; 2014 - 2016 Regular activity; Government Programme 40,000 At least three innova- Economic benefits for Promotion of innovative CDVPR; Project implementa- for the support of BRD (RD (annually) tive business ideas the private sector and business ideas and research Organizational units/ tion. Bureau / MLSG); realized annually municipal communi- (organization of an open call persons responsible Programmes of ME (agencies ties increased; and establishment of a prize for LED; within the Ministry); The number of jobs fund) in each of the munici- Local companies Municipal co-financing; increased. palities of the VPR (through their Cham- Private sector - social respon- bers). sibility; Project application by civil society; Support from donors. CA 1.9: Regional Chamber of 2014 - 2016 Regular activity; Government Programme 5,000 The number of reg- Economic benefits for Organization of Info Work- Craftsmen; Project implementa- for the support of BRD (RD (annually) istered independent the private sector and shops on how to register as CDVPR; tion. Bureau / MLSG); artisans increased; municipal communi- an independent craftsperson Organizational units/ Programmes of ME (agencies Improved access and ties increased; (initiated by the Regional persons responsible within the Ministry); more efficient data The number of jobs Chamber of Crafts) for LED Municipal co-financing; exchange; increased. Co-financing from the private Coordination of key sector; stakeholders im- Project application by the proved. Chamber; Support from donors. CA 1.10: Organizational units/ 2014 – 2016 Regular activity; Government Programme 10,000 Improved access and Economic benefits for Enabling access and connec- persons responsible Project implemen- for the support of BRD (RD (annually) more efficient data the private sector and tivity of small and medium for LED; tation Bureau / MLSG); exchange municipal communi- enterprises to domestic and CDVPR; Programmes of ME (agencies ties increased; foreign markets and organi- Local companies within the Ministry); The number of jobs zation of B2B meetings (through their Cham- Municipal co-financing; increased. bers). Co-financing from the private sector; Project application by the Chamber; Support from donors. CA 1.11: Organizational units/ 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- Government Programme 20,000 The number of protect- Economic benefits for Services for the protection persons responsible tation for the support of BRD (RD ed products with geo- the private sector and of products of local origin, in for LED; Bureau / MLSG); graphical origin from municipal communi- accordance with the VPR’s CDVPR; Programmes of ME/APP; the VPR increased ties increased Strategy for Agricultural Prod- Local companies Programmes of MAFWE ucts with Protection Potential (through their Cham- (agencies within the Ministry) bers). for Agriculture and Rural Development; Municipal co-financing; Co-financing from the private sector; Support from donors. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 45 - - - - ties increased ties Economic benefits for for benefits Economic and sector the private communi municipal increased; ties The number of jobs increased. benefits for Economic and sector the private communi municipal increased; ties The number of jobs increased. benefits for Economic and sector the private communi municipal Economic benefits for benefits for Economic and sector the private communi municipal increased; ties The number of jobs increased. - - - Indicators - - The number of protect geo with ed products origin from graphical the VPR increased Improved access and access Improved data efficient more exchange; of key Coordination im stakeholders proved. and access Improved data efficient more exchange At least three innova three At least ideas business tive annually realized The number of reg independent istered increased; artisans

20,000 10,000 (annually) 40,000 (annually) 5,000 (annually) Budget (EUR) Budget - Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing sector; donors. Support from (agencies within the Ministry) the Ministry) within (agencies and Rural Agriculture for Development; co-financing; Municipal Bureau / MLSG); Bureau of ME/APP; Programmes of MAFWE Programmes Chamber; donors. Support from Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for Municipal co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing sector; the by application Project for the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau of ME (agencies Programmes the Ministry); within Chamber; donors. Support from Programme Government Municipal co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing sector; the by application Project for the support (RD of BRD for / MLSG); Bureau (agencies of ME Programmes the Ministry); within society; society; donors. Support from Programme Government Municipal co-financing; Municipal respon social - sector Private sibility; civil by application Project for the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau (agencies of ME Programmes the Ministry); within Mode of Financing of Mode Programme Government - - - -

Project implemen Project tation Regular activity; activity; Regular implemen Project tation Regular activity; activity; Regular implementa Project tion. Modalities of Implementation activity; Regular implementa Project tion. 2014 - 2015 2014 – 2016 2014 - 2016 2014 - 2016 Timeframe - - - Organizational units/ units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for CDVPR; companies Local their Cham (through bers). Organizational units/ units/ Organizational responsible persons LED for units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for CDVPR; companies Local their Cham (through bers). CSOs; CDVPR; units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for companies Local Cham their (through bers). of Chamber Regional Craftsmen; CDVPR; Implementers of Activities of Implementers - - - - - accordance with the VPR’s with accordance Prod Agricultural for Strategy Potential Protection ucts with CA 1.9: Work of Info Organization as register to on how shops an independent craftsperson the Regional by (initiated of Crafts) Chamber CA 1.10: and connec access Enabling and medium of small tivity and domestic to enterprises and organi markets foreign of B2B meetings zation CA 1.11: the protection for Services origin, in of local of products Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 1.8: of innovative Promotion research and ideas business of an open call (organization of a prize and establishment of the munici in each fund) of the VPR palities 46 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 1.12: Organizational units/ 2014 - 2015 Regular activity; Government Programme 5,000 Employment of Awareness among Implementation of an action persons responsible Project implemen- for the support of BRD (RD (annually) top-achieving students young people of the for employing the 5 best stu- for LED; tation Bureau / MLSG); enabled importance of edu- dents in the Region in local CDVPR; Programmes of MLSP / ESA / cation and acquiring enterprises Local companies ME / APP; relevant skills and (through their Cham- Municipal co-financing; knowledge for em- bers). Private sector - social respon- ployment enhanced sibility; Project application by civil society; Support from donors. CA 1.13: Organizational units/ 2014 - 2016 Project implemen- Government Programme 10,000 Capacity for more Socio-economic ef- Priority training persons responsible tation for the support of BRD (RD (annually) efficient and more fects for communities • Mentoring the for LED; Bureau / MLSG); effective implemen- in the municipalities development of CDVPR; Programmes of ME/APP; tation of the Network increased; realistic project Chambers of the Programmes of SEA and MF; Programme strength- Rapid development applications for current Network; Programmes of MLSP; ened and growth of the calls, primarily in the CSOs in the Network. Programmes of ZELS; economy in the area of pre-accession Programmes of MISA; Region and greater assistance - IPA Municipal co-financing; competitiveness of Co-financing from the private the economy. • Establishment of sector; a public-private Support from donors. partnerships • Information sessions on social entrepreneurship, using real examples • Creation, input and use of databases

CA 1.14: Organizational units / 2014 - 2016 Regular activity; Government Programme 20,000 Promotional materials Promotion increased; Promotion of conditions persons responsible Project implemen- for the support of BRD (RD prepared; Interest in invest- and possibilities to build a for LED and Urban tation Bureau / MLSG); Business Plans pre- ments increased. regional centre for buying , Planning; 2014 Rural Development pared; classifying, cooling, packag- CDVPR; Programme; Forums for domestic ing and marketing fruits and Chambers in the Pri- IPARD; and foreign investors vegetables vate Sector Network. Municipal co-financing; organized. Co-financing from the private sector; Support from donors. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 47 - - - - Socio-economic ef Socio-economic communities for fects in the municipalities increased; development Rapid of the and growth in the economy and greater Region of competitiveness the economy. increased; Promotion in invest Interest ments increased. Awareness among among Awareness of the people young of edu importance and acquiring cation and skills relevant em for knowledge enhanced ployment - Indicators - - Promotional materials materials Promotional prepared; pre Plans Business pared; domestic for Forums investors and foreign organized. tation of the Network of the Network tation strength Programme ened Employment of Employment students top-achieving enabled more for Capacity and more efficient implemen effective

20,000 5,000 (annually) 10,000 (annually) Budget (EUR) Budget - Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing sector; donors. Support from Programme; IPARD; co-financing; Municipal Government Programme Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau Development 2014 Rural Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing sector; donors. Support from Programmes of MLSP; Programmes of ZELS; Programmes of MISA; Programmes co-financing; Municipal for the support (RD of BRD for / MLSG); Bureau of ME/APP; Programmes and MF; of SEA Programmes society; society; donors. Support from Programme Government Municipal co-financing; Municipal respon social - sector Private sibility; civil by application Project for the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau / ESA / of MLSP Programmes ME / APP; Mode of Financing of Mode Programme Government - - -

tation Regular activity; activity; Regular implemen Project Project implemen Project tation Modalities of Implementation activity; Regular implemen Project tation 2014 - 2016 2014 - 2015 2014 - 2016 Timeframe - - Organizational units / units Organizational responsible persons LED and Urban for Planning; CDVPR; in the Pri Chambers Network. Sector vate CDVPR; of the Chambers Network; in the Network. CSOs Organizational units/ units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for CDVPR; companies Local Cham their (through bers). units/ Organizational responsible persons LED; for Implementers of Activities of Implementers - - Mentoring the Mentoring of development project realistic current for applications in the primarily calls, of pre-accession area - IPA assistance of Establishment a public-private partnerships Information on social sessions entrepreneurship, examples real using and use input Creation, of databases • • • • vegetables CA 1.13: Priority training CA 1.14: of conditions Promotion a build to and possibilities , buying for centre regional packag cooling, classifying, fruits and and marketing ing Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 1.12: of an action Implementation stu the 5 best employing for in local dents in the Region enterprises 48 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 1.15: Organizational units / 2014 - 2016 Project implemen- Government Programme for 4 x 50,000= Technical documenta- Rapid development Preparation of technical doc- persons responsible tation the support of BRD (ME/ 200,000 tion prepared; and economic growth umentation and starting the for LED; MLSG); Infrastructure im- of the Region; infrastructure development CDVPR; Municipal co-financing; proved; Socio-economic ben- of 4 capital facilities (indus- Private sector Co-financing from the private Conditions for setting efits for communities trial zones and other capital sector; up new business in the in the municipalities facilities of importance to IPA Component 2 - CBC; Region created; increased. the economy and regional Support from donors. Conditions for new development) employments created.

MEASURE 2: Capacity development and delivery of innovative services for more efficient and more effective social protection and childcare and social inclusion

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 2.1: Kavadarci Municipality; Jan. - Dec. Project implemen- Co-financing from Kavadarci 100,000 Coordination of activ- Socio-economic ben- Creation of a Regional Centre CVPR; 2014 tation (organized Municipality; (50,000 ities for social service efits for communities for Innovative Social Services CSOs in the Network. service for the elderly Support from donors; provided by delivery enhanced; in the municipalities and Partnerships in Kavadar- which will offer help Government Programme Kavadarci Social partnerships increased; ci Municipality to the elderly at home for the support of BRD (RD Municipality) established; Social services im- in terms of food / Bureau / MLSG); Social entrepreneur- proved and coverage medicinal supplies Programmes of MLSP; ship encouraged; of users of such - illustration of a Co-financing from the private Needs of vulnerable services expanded. typical activity) sector – social responsibility; groups addressed. Project application by civil society. CA 2.2: CVPR; 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- Municipal co-financing; 15,000 Pre-feasibility Study Socio-economic ben- Preparation of a pre-feasibil- Appropriate organi- tation Support from donors; prepared; efits for communities ity study for the construction zational units from Programmes of MLSP; Opportunities for the in the municipalities of a home for the elderly in municipalities; Government Programme delivery of protection increased; the VPR through a Public-Pri- Chambers of the for the support of BRD (RD services to the elderly Social services im- vate Partnership Network; Bureau / MLSG); created. proved and coverage CSOs in the Network. Co-financing from the private of users of such sector – social responsibility; services expanded. Project application by civil society. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 49 - - - - - Rapid development development Rapid growth and economic of the Region; ben Socio-economic communities efits for in the municipalities increased. Social services im services Social and coverage proved of such of users expanded. services Socio-economic ben Socio-economic communities efits for in the municipalities increased; im services Social and coverage proved of such of users expanded. services ben Socio-economic communities efits for in the municipalities increased; - - Indicators Indicators - - Technical documenta Technical tion prepared; im Infrastructure proved; setting for Conditions in the up new business created; Region new for Conditions created. employments groups addressed. groups Study Pre-feasibility prepared; the for Opportunities delivery of protection the elderly to services created. Coordination of activ Coordination service social for ities delivery enhanced; partnerships Social established; entrepreneur Social ship encouraged; of vulnerable Needs 15,000 Budget (EUR) Budget 100,000 (50,000 by provided Kavadarci Municipality) 4 x 50,000= 200,000 Budget (EUR) Budget Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing responsibility; – social sector civil by application Project society. Programmes of MLSP; Programmes Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau society. co-financing; Municipal donors; Support from Programmes of MLSP; Programmes the private from Co-financing responsibility; – social sector civil by application Project Support from donors; Support from Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau Co-financing from Kavadarci Kavadarci from Co-financing Municipality; Mode of Financing of Mode sector; sector; 2 - CBC; Component IPA donors. Support from the support of BRD (ME/ MLSG); co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing Mode of Financing of Mode for Programme Government - - -

Project implemen Project tation to the elderly at home the elderly to / of food in terms supplies medicinal of a - illustration activity) typical Modalities of Implementation implemen Project (organized tation the elderly for service help offer will which Modalities of Implementation implemen Project tation 2014 - 2015 Timeframe Jan. - Dec. 2014 2014 - 2016 Timeframe - CVPR; organi Appropriate from units zational municipalities; of the Chambers Network; in the Network. CSOs Implementers of Activities of Implementers Municipality; Kavadarci CVPR; in the Network. CSOs Organizational units / units Organizational responsible persons LED; for CDVPR; sector Private Implementers of Activities of Implementers - - - - - the VPR through a Public-Pri the VPR through Partnership vate the economy and regional regional and the economy development) Actions Collective and Measures CA 2.1: Centre of a Regional Creation Services Social Innovative for in Kavadar and Partnerships Municipality ci CA 2.2: of a pre-feasibil Preparation the construction for ity study in the elderly of a home for Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 1.15: doc of technical Preparation the and starting umentation development infrastructure (indus facilities of 4 capital capital and other zones trial to of importance facilities 50 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 2.3: Organizational units / 2014 - 2016 Project implemen- MLSP (lease, concession, 60,000 Conditions for the Social services im- Construction and adaptation persons responsible tation PPP); delivery of elderly proved and coverage of already existing public for LED; Co-financing from munici- protection services of service users buildings for the elderly in CDVPR; palities; created; expanded; the Region Private sector. Support from donors; Housing conditions of Quality coverage and Government Programme the elderly improved; care of the elderly. for the support of BRD (RD Quality of life of the Bureau / MLSG); elderly improved. CA 2.4: CVPR; 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- Support from donors; 25,000 Opportunities for bet- Socio-economic ben- Support to activities or Appropriate organiza- tation Government Programme ter delivery of services efits for communities programmes for preschool tional units and people for the support of BRD (RD for child protection and in the municipalities childcare in rural areas from rural communi- Bureau / MLSG); care in rural communi- increased; ties; Programmes of MLSP; ties created. Social services im- Chambers of the Co-financing from the private proved and coverage Network; sector – social responsibility; of users of such CSOs in the Network. Project application by civil services expanded. society. CA 2.5: Local government bod- 2015 - 2016 Project implemen- Government Programme 30,000 A joint Working Body Socio-economic ben- Establishment of inter-munic- ies in municipalities; tation for the support of BRD (RD as a form of IMC estab- efits for communities ipal cooperation and social CDVPR; Bureau / MLSG); lished; in the municipalities partnerships to provide care Local companies Programmes of MLSP (and Social partnerships increased; for vulnerable groups (through their Cham- centres/agencies within it); established; Social services im- bers); Municipal co-financing; Improved access and proved and coverage CSOs. Co-financing from the private more efficient data of users of such sector – social responsibility; exchange; services expanded. IPA Component 2 – CBC; Coordination of key Support from donors. stakeholders improved. CA 2.6: Appropriate organiza- 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- Government Programme 5,000 Capacity for more Socio-economic ef- Priority training tional units/ tation for the support of BRD (RD (annually) efficient and more fects for communities • Social inclusion and people responsible in Bureau / MLSG); effective implemen- in the municipalities vulnerable groups municipalities; Programmes of MLSP; tation of the Network increased; CDVPR; Municipal co-financing; Programme strength- Social services im- • Gender-responsive Chambers of the Support from donors. ened proved and coverage budgeting and gender- Network; of users of such sensitive local policy- CSOs in the Network. services expanded. making and ways to monitor the different impact of specific policies on men and women WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 51 ------Socio-economic ben Socio-economic communities efits for in the municipalities increased; im services Social and coverage proved of such of users expanded. services ben Socio-economic communities efits for in the municipalities increased; im services Social and coverage proved of such of users expanded. services ef Socio-economic communities for fects in the municipalities increased; im services Social and coverage proved of such of users expanded. services Social services im services Social and coverage proved users of service expanded; and Quality coverage of the elderly. care - - - - Indicators - - efficient and more and more efficient implemen effective of the Network tation strength Programme ened A joint Working Body Working A joint estab of IMC a form as lished; partnerships Social established; and access Improved data efficient more exchange; of key Coordination im stakeholders proved. more for Capacity Conditions for the for Conditions delivery of elderly services protection created; of conditions Housing improved; the elderly of the Quality of life improved. elderly bet for Opportunities deliveryter of services and protection child for communi in rural care created. ties

(annually) 30,000 5,000 60,000 25,000 Budget (EUR) Budget - Programmes of MLSP; Programmes co-financing; Municipal donors. Support from Government Programme Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing responsibility; – social sector 2 – CBC; Component IPA donors. Support from Programmes of MLSP (and of MLSP Programmes it); within centres/agencies co-financing; Municipal society. Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau Programmes of MLSP; Programmes the private from Co-financing responsibility; – social sector civil by application Project Support from donors; Support from Programme Government the support (RD of BRD for / MLSG); Bureau Government Programme Programme Government the support (RD of BRD for / MLSG); Bureau PPP); munici from Co-financing palities; donors; Support from Mode of Financing of Mode concession, (lease, MLSP - - - -

Project implemen Project tation tation Project implemen Project Project implemen Project tation Modalities of Implementation implemen Project tation 2015 - 2016 2014 - 2015 2014 - 2016 2014 - 2015 Timeframe - - - - - tional units/ units/ tional in responsible people municipalities; CDVPR; of the Chambers Network; in the Network. CSOs Network; Network; in the Network. CSOs bod government Local in municipalities; ies CDVPR; companies Local their Cham (through bers); CSOs. organiza Appropriate Organizational units / units Organizational responsible persons LED; for CDVPR; sector. Private CVPR; organiza Appropriate people and units tional communi rural from ties; of the Chambers Implementers of Activities of Implementers - monitor the different the different monitor of specific impact on men and policies women Social inclusion and inclusion Social groups vulnerable Gender-responsive and gender- budgeting policy- local sensitive to and ways making • • CA 2.4: or Support activities to preschool for programmes areas in rural childcare CA 2.5: of inter-munic Establishment and social cooperation ipal care provide to partnerships groups vulnerable for CA 2.6: Priority training Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 2.3: and adaptation Construction public existing of already in the elderly for buildings the Region 52 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

MEASURE 3: Capacity development and delivery of innovative services for more efficient and more effective environmental protection

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 3.1: Local government bod- 2015 - 2016 Project implemen- Government Programme 30,000 A joint working or Environment protec- Creating innovative forms of ies in municipalities; tation for the support of BRD (RD administrative body as tion improved; inter-municipal cooperation CDVPR; Bureau / MLSG); a form of IMC estab- Utility services im- and public-private partner- Local companies Programmes of MEPP; Munic- lished; proved and coverage ships for environmental (through their Cham- ipal co-financing; PPPs established; of beneficiaries of protection (solid waste and bers); Co-financing from the private Improved access and such services ex- waste-water management, CSOs. sector – social responsibility; more efficient data panded; use of bio-degradable waste IPA Component 2 – CBC; exchange; from viticulture, management Support from donors. Coordination of key of protected areas, applica- stakeholders im- tion of the LEADER approach proved. - local action groups for rural development, assistance to farmers in the application of agri-environmental measures, etc.) CA 3.2: Local government bod- 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- Government Programme for 40,000 At least three recre- Environment protec- Development of 3 recreation ies in municipalities; tation support of BRD (RD Bureau / (per site) ational sites of regional tion improved; sites and zones with natural CDVPR; MLSG); significance marked The number of tour- rarities of regional signifi- Local companies Programmes of MEPP, MTC and developed ists increased; cance (through their Cham- and MAFWE; Travel services im- bers); Municipal co-financing; proved and the cover- CSOs. Co-financing from the private age of users of these sector – social responsibility; services expanded. IPA Component 2 – CBC; Support from donors. CA 3.3: Organizational units/ 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- Government Programme 30,000 Eco-labels for at least Awareness of the Demonstrating the eco-la- persons responsible for tation for the support of BRD (RD three business ser- need for improved belling procedure in the VPR LED and environment Bureau / MLSG); vices and distinctive environmental protec- in collaboration with the in municipalities; Programmes of MEPP; products tion enhanced; Ministry of Environment and CVPR; Municipal co-financing; The number of tour- Physical Planning Local companies Co-financing from the private ists increased; (through their Cham- sector – social responsibility; Services and products bers); IPA Component 2 – CBC; improved; CSOs. Support from donors. Socio-economic benefits increased. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 53 ------improved; ben Socio-economic efits increased. proved and coverage and coverage proved of of beneficiaries ex services such panded; protec Environment tion improved; The number of tour increased; ists im services Travel and the cover proved of these of users age expanded. services of the Awareness improved need for protec environmental tion enhanced; The number of tour increased; ists products and Services Environment protec Environment tion improved; im services Utility - - - - Eco-labels for at least at least for Eco-labels ser business three and distinctive vices products proved. recre three At least of regional sites ational marked significance and developed Indicators or working A joint body as administrative estab of IMC a form lished; established; PPPs and access Improved data efficient more exchange; of key Coordination im stakeholders

30,000 40,000 (per site) Budget (EUR) Budget 30,000 - Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing responsibility; – social sector 2 – CBC; Component IPA donors. Support from for the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau of MEPP; Programmes co-financing; Municipal sector – social responsibility; – social sector 2 – CBC; Component IPA donors. Support from Programme Government and MAFWE; co-financing; Municipal the private from Co-financing Government Programme for for Programme Government / support (RD Bureau of BRD MLSG); MTC of MEPP, Programmes Support from donors. Support from Co-financing from the private the private from Co-financing responsibility; – social sector 2 – CBC; Component IPA for the support (RD of BRD for / MLSG); Bureau Munic of MEPP; Programmes co-financing; ipal Mode of Financing of Mode Programme Government - - -

Project implemen Project tation Project implemen Project tation Implementation implemen Project tation Modalities of 2014 - 2015 2014 - 2015 Timeframe 2015 - 2016 - - - - - Organizational units/ units/ Organizational for responsible persons LED and environment in municipalities; CVPR; companies Local their Cham (through bers); CSOs. Local government bod government Local in municipalities; ies CDVPR; companies Local their Cham (through bers); CSOs. Implementers of Activities of Implementers bod government Local in municipalities; ies CDVPR; companies Local Cham their (through bers); CSOs. - - - - - and public-private partner and public-private environmental for ships and waste (solid protection management, waste-water waste of bio-degradable use management viticulture, from applica areas, of protected tion of the LEADER approach rural for action groups - local to assistance development, of in the application farmers mea agri-environmental etc.) sures, CA 3.2: of 3 recreation Development natural with and zones sites signifi of regional rarities cance CA 3.3: the eco-la Demonstrating the VPR in procedure belling the with in collaboration and of Environment Ministry Planning Physical Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 3.1: of forms innovative Creating cooperation inter-municipal 54 LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY TAKING AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Measures and Collective Actions Implementers of Activities Timeframe Modalities of Mode of Financing Budget (EUR) Indicators Implementation CA 3.4: Appropriate organiza- 2014 - 2015 Project implemen- Government Programme 10,000 Capacity for more Increased socio-eco- Priority training tional units/ tation for the support of BRD (RD (annually) efficient and more nomic benefits and • Application of people responsible in Bureau / MLSG); effective implemen- improved environ- environmental municipalities; Programmes of MLSP; tation of the Network ment for communities standard ISO 14000 CDVPR; Municipal co-financing; Programme strength- in the municipalities Chambers of the Support from donors. ened • Implementation of Network; legal provisions by CSOs in the Network. the municipalities and business community (IPPC, Studies for Environmental Protection, Strategic Environmental Impact Assessments, Waste Management Plans etc.) • LEADER approach (Links between actions for rural development) CA 3.5: Joint administrative 2014 - 2016 Project implemen- Government Programme 120,000 Energy savings in the Energy efficient and Support to activities for unit for EE located tation for the support of BRD (RD Region increased; safe facilities in the improving energy efficiency in Negotino, EE focal Bureau / MLSG); Quality and safety of Region created in the VPR municipalities in points Ministry of Economy; the facilities in the accordance with the prepared in the municipalities; Energy Agency Region improved; EE Strategies and Action CDVPR; Support from donors; Utilization of new alter- Planss Private sector; IPA-CBC native energy sources. Public institutions; CSOs in the Network and wider. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NETWORK FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VARDAR PLANNING REGION 2014-2016 55 - - Energy efficient and Energy efficient in the facilities safe created Region Increased socio-eco Increased and nomic benefits environ improved communities ment for in the municipalities - - - Energy savings in the Energy savings increased; Region of Quality and safety in the the facilities improved; Region of new alter Utilization energy sources. native Capacity for more more for Capacity and more efficient implemen effective of the Network tation strength Programme ened Indicators

120,000 10,000 (annually) Budget (EUR) Budget Energy Agency donors; Support from IPA-CBC Government Programme Programme Government the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau of Economy; Ministry Support from donors. Support from for the support of BRD (RD for / MLSG); Bureau of MLSP; Programmes co-financing; Municipal Mode of Financing of Mode Programme Government - -

Project implemen Project tation Modalities of Implementation implemen Project tation 2014 - 2016 2014 - 2015 Timeframe - Joint administrative Joint administrative EE located for unit EE focal in Negotino, points in the municipalities; CDVPR; sector; Private institutions; Public in the Network CSOs and wider. Appropriate organiza Appropriate units/ tional in responsible people municipalities; CDVPR; of the Chambers Network; in the Network. CSOs Implementers of Activities of Implementers legal provisions by by provisions legal and the municipalities community business for Studies (IPPC, Environmental Strategic Protection, Impact Environmental Waste Assessments, Plans Management etc.) LEADER approach actions between (Links development) rural for Application of Application environmental ISO 14000 standard of Implementation • • • CA 3.5: for Support activities to energy efficiency improving in in the VPR municipalities prepared the with accordance and Action EE Strategies Planss Measures and Collective Actions Collective and Measures CA 3.4: Priority training November, 2013