A strategic chance to chat through SEUPB possible programme level underspend opportunities for 2027. Discussing potential new tenders ideas.

This is an open invite 'mini-co-design' meeting for an interested community and voluntary groups in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

There is a possibility, but no guarantee, that in 2027 the SEUPB (Special EU Programmes Body) will have an underspend at programme level across the region. This may open an opportunity for councils to bid for 'underspend' monies through the Local Co-Designed Action Plan. Derry City and Strabane District Council’s PEACEPLUS Board are, entirely at risk, exploring a strategic approach to this possibility. There is zero guarantee of any funding at all, but it could be a good strategic step to think ahead.

If a funding opportunity does open, it will be very specific, time-bound and rapid. It will likely be for a limited number of projects roughly in the range of £50,000 - £150,000. Projects will have to meet all the existing PEACEPLUS requirements as well as having strong relevant to the existing local action plan.

This meeting is an opportunity for you to input your views and expertise. It is possible that the PEACEPLUS Board and DCSD Council will develop a limited number of new tendered projects to prepare for any opportunity. These must be:

1. Competitively advertised - Tenders which multiple organisations can compete for. Not specific to only 1 delivery agent or 1 limited geographic area.

2. Cross-community - Each project must be able to engage an audience of roughly 1-2 participants per £1000 and attract diverse participants.

3. Timebound - Able to be delivered in a 2-4 month turnaround time (recruitment, delivery, completion) likely between May - Sept 2027. Straightforward and effective.

4. Need & Relevance - Meet local needs and be broadly or specifically relevant to peace and reconciliation.

5. Geographic spread - Be either at a district level (reaching people from across entire council area) or 'grouped DEA' area e.g. Across Rural or Urban area.

The PEACEPLUS Board, which includes community, statutory and elected representation, will be the key vehicle for progressing this possible opportunity. Your views in this meeting will be presented to the board and will form a key part of the discussion and decision making process in responding to this situation.

Description supplied by the event organiser.