How the new programme is prepared
Preparing a new cross-border programme takes around three years. Here are the main steps, who is involved and what we have done so far.
The timing is indicative. It will follow the overall decision-making process and adoption of the rules in the EU and national levels. We will keep updating the timeline during the work process.
Who is preparing the programme
The new programme is prepared jointly by Estonia and Latvia, with input from people and organisations across the border regions.
DECIDES
Joint Programming Committee
Representatives of Estonia and Latvia who guide the preparation and agree on the content of the new programme.
Members: national, regional and local authorities and other partners representing the stakeholders.
LEADS NATIONALLY, ESTONIA
Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture
The Estonian national authority for the programme.
LEADS NATIONALLY, LATVIA
Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development
The Latvian national authority for the programme.
COORDINATES THE WORK
Managing Authority and Joint Secretariat
The current programme's Managing Authority and Joint Secretariat, based at the State Shared Service Centre in Estonia, support the preparation work.
Main steps
2026 to mid-2027
We are here
1. Getting started
Estonia and Latvia set up the Joint Programming Committee and agree how the work is organised. We map who should be involved, agree on the long-term vision and the programme area, and analyse the needs and challenges of the border regions to be addressed through cross-border cooperation.
Autumn 2026 to 2027
We are here
2. Choosing the focus
Based on the analysis and feedback, we decide on which needs and challenges the new programme shall be focused on and start shaping its strategy. We also talk to other programmes to create synergies and complementarities, and avoid overlaps. From autumn 2026, we consult people and organisations in the border regions of our programme area throughout the preparation.
2027 to early 2028
Planned
3. Drafting the programme
We draft the programme and its related documents, including cooperation strategy, objectives and priorities, expected results, financial framework, horizontal principles, the types of projects and how the programme will work in practice. Seminars and expert meetings help us test the draft.
Autumn 2027 to early 2028
Planned
4. Public consultation
The final draft of the programme will be presented for public consultations and once the agreed amendments have been incorporated, it will be formally approved by Estonia and Latvia.
Spring 2028
Planned
5. Submission and EU approval
The programme is submitted to the European Commission, which may ask questions or request changes. Negotiations may take several months and final approval is expected during 2028.
2028
Planned
6. Getting ready for applicants
We prepare the programme manual, application forms, guidance, and other related documents so that project partners can start applying once the programme is approved.
Explore
Estonia-Latvia programme after 2027
Where we are now and what happens at EU level.
Have your say
Surveys, consultations and events where you can share your ideas.
Stay informed and get involved
Is your organisation interested in cross-border cooperation after 2027? Join our contact list and we will:
Invite you to consultations and events
Ask for your ideas and feedback while we prepare the programme
Tell you when the European Commission approves the programme
Let you know when the programme opens for applicantsLast updated: 08.10.2026
