In 2024, the 30th anniversary of the entry into force of the Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA) was celebrated. The agreement was signed in the city of Porto on May 2, 1992, between the Member States of the European Union (EU) and the countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Through this Agreement, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein became partners with the EU Member States in the internal market. To strengthen economic and trade relations, the parties to the Agreement established a Financial Mechanism known as the EEA Grants, through which these three countries began to financially support some of the EU Member States, including Portugal.
For 30 years, the EEA Grants have played a crucial role in supporting priority sectors by funding a wide range of projects in areas that have increased the competitiveness of Portuguese companies and strengthened scientific research and innovation in the maritime sector, as well as education and ocean literacy. Project funding has also helped to promote the circular economy, enhance regional development, decarbonize society, and increase resilience to climate change. The projects funded by the EEA Grants have also played an important role in the recovery and safeguarding of coastal cultural heritage and in the promotion of artistic activities.
It is worth highlighting the emphasis placed on gender equality, good governance, work-life balance, and the fight against violence toward women and domestic violence. Over the past 30 years, the EEA Grants have also contributed to strengthening democratic values, defending human rights, empowering vulnerable groups, and reinforcing civil society.
Given that Portugal has been one of the beneficiary countries of the EEA Grants since the beginning, the National Focal Point marked the occasion by organizing a conference on October 23, 2024, at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. The event brought together representatives from various entities, national and international experts, Programme Operators, projects, and partners, who shared the results achieved over the course of the various Financial Mechanisms, as well as the next steps under the new EEA Financial Mechanism for 2021–2028.
Explore the conference programme here and watch the videos produced to celebrate the 30-year anniversary, showcasing the results achieved by the various Programmes.