Performance-based approaches
The essence of a performance-based approach (P-BA) is that it emphasizes what must be achieved, as opposed to how it must be done.
In P-BA, clear performance goals are defined in advance. Payments are linked to meeting these pre-agreed goals, not to expenditures or activities undertaken. The focus shifts from inputs to outputs.
Even before the Commission published the draft Post 2027 regulatory package, it was evident that we were moving toward P-BA. Now it is clear that this approach will (subject to Member State agreement) be the delivery mechanism between the Commission and the programmes. This means that success of programmes will be measured by the achievement of agreed milestones and targets.
This approach (or the use of simplified cost options) is also recommended for payments between programmes and projects.
As this model becomes the standard framework, it is important that we understand what it is, how it works and how to operate effectively within it.
Where to start
Once you have read the draft regulatory package, particularly the Performance Framework Regulation, you can proceed to the Interreg Knowledge Fair presentation, “An elementary Performance-based approach (P-BA) experience”.
As simply going through the materials and slides does not always provide the full picture, we invite you to explore what we are currently working on below and join us.
What we are working on
Interact have a range of activities planned for the second half of 2026, for both those new to P-BA and for others with more experience.
New to P-BA
- P-BA in Interreg: the basics - online (11/9 & 6/10 - with more to follow in 2027)
- Where Interact staff walk you through the basics of P-BA, using practical examples
- 60 minutes. 1 measure - online (5/10 & 16/11)
- Where Interreg programmes share examples of their "measures in progress", and where you can ask them questions.
A little more advanced
- HIT group: Kick-off on Intervention Logic - online (17/9)
- HIT group: Budget and co-financing - P-BA lower level - online (28/9)
- P-BA How to…? Measure costing & pay-out values workshop - in person, Germany (14-15/10)
- HIT group: continuing discussions - in person, Croatia (27-28/10)
For latest information on the events above - including registration details and post-event materials - please go to the Events section of Interact's website.
Who to contact
For more information, please contact Grzegorz Golda.
Work on P-BA in Interact will cover the following themes (please find the contact person indicated next to each theme):
- Programme finance management (upper level) – Grzegorz Golda
- Control and audit – Jasmina Lukic
- Programme and project life-cycle – Phil Heaton
- Matching upper and lower level – Maciej Molak
- Intervention logic & programme design – Daniela Minichberger
Where to exchange
Interact offers an online space for those working with P-BA, and wider Programme and project management to share information and exchange. You can find out more about our MS Teams environment on our Networks page, and see all our networks in our Portal.
