4.6. Kas vajate projekti kohandamist?

When are amendments necessary?

The need for a grant agreement or subsidy contract amendment in ESF+, ERDF, or Interreg projects can arise in several situations. Here are some common scenarios where such amendments may be necessary:

• Changes in Project Scope: If there are significant changes to the project’s objectives, activities, or outcomes that deviate from what was originally outlined in the grant agreement or subsidy contract, an amendment may be required. This could include adding or removing project components, modifying the target population, or altering the expected results.
• Budget Modifications: If there are changes to the project’s budget that exceed the allowed thresholds or require reallocation of funds between budget categories, a grant agreement or subsidy contract amendment may be necessary. This can include budget increases, decreases, or reshuffling of funds to ensure alignment with project needs and priorities.
• Timeframe Adjustments: If there is a need to extend or shorten the project’s duration beyond what was initially planned, an amendment to the grant agreement or subsidy contract may be required. This can be due to unforeseen circumstances, delays, or the need to accommodate changes in implementation schedules.
• Partnership Changes: If there are modifications to the project partnership, such as adding or removing project partners, an amendment may be necessary to update the grant agreement or subsidy contract accordingly. This ensures that all parties involved are properly documented and aligned with the project’s objectives.
• Reporting and Evaluation Requirements: If there are changes to the reporting or evaluation requirements specified in the original grant agreement or subsidy contract, an amendment may be needed to reflect the updated expectations. This can include adjustments to the frequency, format, or content of progress reports, financial statements, or evaluation activities.
• Legal and Regulatory Updates: If there are changes in the legal or regulatory framework governing the funding programme or the specific project, an amendment may be necessary to ensure compliance with the new requirements. This could include modifications to eligibility criteria, procurement rules, or reporting obligations.

It’s important to note that the exact process for requesting and obtaining a grant agreement or subsidy contract amendment may vary depending on the specific funding programme and the policies of the funding authority. It is advisable to consult the programme guidelines and reach out to the appropriate programme officers or authorities to understand the specific procedures and requirements for requesting an amendment.

When are amendments not necessary?

• Minor Administrative Changes: If the proposed adjustments are minor administrative changes that do not significantly impact the project’s scope, objectives, outcomes, budget, or timeline, an amendment may not be necessary. These changes typically involve routine administrative tasks such as updating contact information, minor adjustments to reporting formats, or similar administrative matters that do not affect the substantive aspects of the project.
• Within Approved Flexibility Limits: Many funding programs provide a certain level of flexibility within predefined limits. If the proposed adjustments fall within these predefined flexibility limits as outlined in the grant agreement or subsidy contract, an amendment may not be required. However, it is essential to review the specific programme guidelines and consult with the funding authority to ensure that the proposed changes remain within the permissible limits.
• Pre-Approved Changes: Some funding programs may have specific pre-approval processes or mechanisms in place for certain types of changes. These pre-approvals are typically granted for anticipated adjustments that are common in the context of the funded projects. If the proposed adjustments fall within the scope of pre-approved changes, there may be no need for a formal amendment. It is important to consult the programme guidelines and funding authority to determine whether the proposed changes qualify for pre-approval.
• Trivial Budget Reallocations: In cases where the proposed adjustments involve trivial budget reallocations that do not affect the overall project budget significantly, an amendment may not be required. However, the definition of “trivial” may vary depending on the funding programme and the specific project context. It is advisable to consult the programme guidelines and funding authority to determine the threshold for what is considered a trivial budget reallocation.
• Reporting Modifications: If the adjustments pertain solely to reporting requirements, such as changes in reporting templates, frequency, or minor modifications to the content of reports, an amendment may not be necessary. However, it is important to ensure that any changes in reporting are communicated to the funding authority in a timely and transparent manner.

It’s crucial to note that the decision of whether an amendment is necessary ultimately lies with the funding authority.

How to prepare an amendment? 

1. Review the Original Agreement or Contract: Start by thoroughly reviewing the original grant agreement or subsidy contract that was signed between the funding authority and the project implementing organisation. Understand the terms, conditions, and obligations outlined in the agreement to assess the scope of potential adjustments.
2. Identify the Nature of Adjustments: Determine the specific changes required for the project. This could include modifications to project activities, outputs, outcomes, budget, timeline, partnership, or reporting requirements. Clearly articulate the reasons for the adjustments and provide supporting documentation or justifications.
3. Consult the Funding Authority: Reach out to the relevant programme officer or contact within the funding authority to discuss the proposed adjustments. Seek their guidance on the appropriate procedures and documentation required for requesting changes to the agreement or contract. They will provide specific instructions and clarify any program-specific requirements.
4. Prepare a Request for Amendment: Based on the guidance received from the funding authority, prepare a formal request for amendment. This request should include a clear description of the proposed adjustments, their rationale, and the potential impact on project outcomes, budget, and timeline. Include any supporting documents, such as revised project plans, budget sheets, or partnership agreements.
5. Budget Modifications and Financial Considerations: If the proposed adjustments involve budget modifications, provide a detailed breakdown of the revised budget, clearly explaining how the funds will be reallocated, added, or reduced. Ensure that the revised budget aligns with the funding program’s guidelines and policies.
6. Compliance and Legal Considerations: Consider any compliance and legal aspects associated with the proposed adjustments. Verify whether the modifications comply with the relevant regulations, procurement rules, or eligibility criteria. Ensure that any necessary legal documentation, such as partnership agreements or subcontracting arrangements, are updated accordingly.
7. Timelines and Reporting: If the adjustments affect the project’s timeline or reporting requirements, provide an updated timeline and reporting schedule, clearly indicating how the project will accommodate the changes and meet the revised obligations.
8. Submission and Approval: Follow the submission procedures specified by the funding authority. Submit the request for amendment along with the supporting documents within the prescribed timeline. The funding authority will review the request, evaluate its feasibility, and communicate their decision regarding the proposed adjustments. The approval process may vary depending on the programme and the nature of the adjustments.

The amendment is requested and processed in a paperless form in the Funding & Tender Opportunities Portal.