Project implementation support and monitoring

This phase covers the support and monitoring of approved projects, from project start-up through implementation to project closure. The main objective is to ensure that projects deliver high-quality results and contribute effectively to programme objectives in line with the set rules.  

Starting project implementation

Once the Monitoring Committee has taken a decision and all conditions are fulfilled, the project starts the implementation. At this stage, early communication between the programme and the project is essential and therefore it is important to:

• establish early contact with the lead partner;
• build trust and ensure a shared understanding of the project’s objectives and approach;
• agree on communication arrangements and working methods;
• carry out an initial risk assessment, including the mitigation measures;
• tailor the monitoring and support approach based on the programme's project’s needs and the overall project portfolio.

Early engagement helps prevent issues, ensure alignment, and sets the foundation for effective cooperation.

Project monitoring

Project monitoring is the continuous process of tracking progress, assessing performance, and providing support to ensure that projects deliver their planned outputs and results. Project monitoring covers, among others, the following tasks:

• regular communication with projects;
• review and feedback on project reports;
• identification and management of risks;
• targeted support and guidance;
• managing project modifications;
• mid-term reviews and meetings.

Project reporting is one of the key components of monitoring, providing structured information on progress, achievements, and challenges. Effective reporting should be clear, proportionate, and aligned with monitoring needs, avoiding unnecessary administrative burden.

Project closure

Project closure marks the formal completion of project activities. It involves: 
• capturing project achievements and ensuring the durability of results;
• ensuring proper audit trail;
• identifying potential for the capitalisation and synergies;
• preparing for post-project obligations;
• capturing lessons learned and providing feedback to programme. 

A well-managed closure phase supports capitalisation and long-term impact.

Where to start

Fact sheet (Interreg Programme Management Handbook) on Project Implementation and Monitoring is available here.

Fact sheet (Interreg Programme Management Handbook) on Project Closure is available here.

Certified training on "Interreg project assessment, monitoring and verification" is available in the Interact Academy. 

Project Reporting is an important part of the monitoring: HIT reporting package.

The series of events dedicated to:

• Report: Stock taking of common Interreg indicators in 2021-2027 (2024)
• Project quality: Raising Project Quality (2017), Improving project quality (2025);
• Project monitoring: Navigating monitoring: practices, challenges and new perspectives (2025, 2026);
• Programme support system to applicants and project partners: Smart Support - Stronger projects (2026). 

What we are working on

We are working to identify emerging needs and prepare services to support programmes;' implementation in 2026 and 2027.

If you have specific needs for the exchange among programmes and support on project implementation, reporting, monitoring, project modifications and closure, support systems, project quality please reach out to the contact person.  

Contact 

For more information please contact Monika Balode.

Exchange Community

Interact offers an online space for those working with 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.

If you would like to learn more about this, please contact Robert Mazurkiewicz.