The CERV conference allows for the creation of synergies between the health and social sectors
During the event, organized by IDIAP with the support of the European Citizenship Point of the Ministry of Culture, the operation of the funding program was explained, projects eligible for funding were presented, and a roundtable discussion was held on how to succeed in participation
The University Institute for Research in Primary Care (IDIAPJGol), with the support of the European Citizenship Point (PEC) of the Ministry of Culture, held a thematic conference on November 19, 2024, dedicated to the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) funding program of the European Commission. This event, conducted both online and in-person at the Catalan Institute of Health auditorium, aimed to promote collaboration between the health and social sectors in developing projects for future program calls.
An Opportunity to Understand the CERV Program
During the conference, participants explored the key values of the CERV program, learned about the types of projects eligible for funding, and understood the steps necessary to ensure successful applications. The event was opened by the director of IDIAPJGol, Josep Basora, who highlighted the importance of connecting local initiatives with European funding opportunities.
Following this, Manuel García, a technician from the European Citizenship Point, delivered a detailed presentation on the program’s history and key aspects. García provided practical advice for future applicants, emphasizing strategies to enhance proposal competitiveness. Subsequently, Anna Berenguera, deputy director of IDIAPJGol, highlighted the institute’s active role as a facilitator in accessing these European grants.
Inspiration for Future Applicants
The conference was structured around four pitch sessions where projects that have either received or aspire to receive CERV funding were presented. These sessions served as an inspiration for attendees, emphasizing best practices and the criteria that made these successes possible.
Keys to Leveraging CERV Funding
The event concluded with a roundtable discussion moderated by Stella Mally, a project advisor at IDIAPJGol. Participants included notable figures such as Anna Ponjoan, coordinator of the L-Health project; Maire Arrondo, head of the collaborative housing policy project NETCO; and Berta Vall, representative of the Fathers Rock program, which focuses on engaging future fathers in child-rearing. Manuel García also returned to reinforce practical advice for accessing CERV funds.
This discussion provided attendees with deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities of the selected projects and offered a clear vision of how to meet the requirements to qualify for these grants.
A Bridge Between Europe and the Region
This conference reaffirmed the commitment of IDIAPJGol and the European Citizenship Point to facilitating access to resources that can make a transformative difference in project development. Initiatives like this are essential for building bridges between local needs and European objectives, solidifying a robust network of collaboration between the health and social sectors.
Four Pillars
The CERV program is based on four pillars: equality, civic engagement and participation, combating violence, and protecting democratic values within the European Union. In this regard, it funds projects that strengthen social cohesion, the rule of law, and the fight against discrimination, hatred, and violence.
