G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
25 July 2017 
(17-4100) Page: 1/29 
Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures  Original:  English  
 
  SUBSIDIES  
NEW AND FULL NOTIFICATION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE XVI:1 OF  
THE GATT 1994 AND ARTICLE 25 OF THE AGREEMENT ON  
SUBSIDIES AND COUNTERVAILING MEASURES  
EUROPEAN UNION 
Addendum  
The following addendum to the notification of the European Union relates to the subsidy 
programmes of the  United Kingdom . 
 
_______________  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  UNITED KINGDOM  
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
1   INTERTRADEIRELAND - ACUMEN PROGRAMME  ................................ ...........................  3 
2   INTERTRADEIRELAND – FUSION (2015 -2020)  ................................ ............................  3 
3   INTERTRADEIRELAND – CHALLENGE (2015 -2020)  ................................ ......................  4 
4   INTERTRADEIRELAND – INNOVA  ................................ ................................ ................  5 
5   DFC- URBAN DEVELOPMENT GR ANT SCHEME  ................................ ..............................  6 
6   DFC - REGIONAL STADIA DEVE LOPMENT IN NORTHERN IRELAND  ..............................  7 
7   DFE - ASSURED SKILLS  ................................ ................................ ...............................  8 
8   DFE - RENEWABLE HEAT INCEN TIVE (2012 -2020)  ................................ ......................  9 
9   DAERA - RESEARCH CHALLENGE F UND ................................ ................................ ...... 10 
10   DOJ – 6 OUT OF 10 PROJECT  ................................ ................................ ...................  11 
11   TOURISM NI - HMS CAROLINE ................................ ................................ .................  12 
12   SEUPB – SPIRE PROJECT  ................................ ................................ .........................  13 
13   NI SCREEN FUND  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 14 
14   INVEST NI – GRANT FOR R&D&I SCHE ME................................ ................................  15 
15   INVEST NI – NI SPIN -OUTS (NISPO) RISK CA PITAL  ................................ ...............  16 
16   INVEST NI – SELECTIVE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME  ................................ ..... 16 
17   INVEST NI – GROWTH LOAN FUND  ................................ ................................ ..........  17 
18   INVEST NI - RESOURCE EFFICIENCY CAPITAL GRANT  ................................ .............  18 
19   INVEST NI – TECHSTART  ................................ ................................ .........................  19 
20   INVEST NI – RESCUE AND RESTRUCTU RING SCHEME 2015 TO 2020  .......................  20 
21  INVEST NI – SKILLS,  STRATEGY AND INNOVAT ION SOLUTIONS  .............................  20 
22  HIE GENERAL BLOCK EX EMPTION SCHEME  ................................ ...............................  21 
23  SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTEC TION  SCHEME 2014 -2020  ..........  24 
24  SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE TRAINING, DISADVANTA GED WORKERS AND 
WORKERS WITH DISABIL ITIES SCHEME 2014 -2020  ................................ ......................  25 
25  SE SME AID SCHEME 20 14-2020  ................................ ................................ ..............  26 
26  SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE RESEARCH AND DEVELOP MENT AND INNOVATION 
SCHEME 2014 -2020  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 27 
27  REGION AL GROWTH FUND  ................................ ................................ .......................  28 
 G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  1  INTERTRADEIRELAND - ACUMEN PROGRAMME  
1. Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
The Acumen programme  aims to help SMEs to grow their business on the island of Ireland.  
 
Benefits to companies as a result of the programme include:  
 
 Access to new markets and increased cross -border sales.  
 Better knowledge of the cross -border market.  
 New business opportunities identified.  
 Improvements to their sales and marketing strategy.  
 Increased business contacts and prospects across the island.  
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
 
The legal basis for the scheme is the British/Irish Agreement Act 1999, which authorises the 
awarding body (InterTradeIreland: a non -departmental body) to a dminister and fund projects 
under the proposed scheme.  
 
EC State aid reference – X672/2009.  
 
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
Assistance will be provided in the form of non -repayable grants.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
SMEs in manufacturing and tra dable services sectors.  
 
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £0.006  
2016 £0.435  
 
Scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
 
7. Duration of programme  
 
8 June 2009 to 30 June 2016  
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
 
2  INTER TRADEIRELAND – FUSION (2015 -2020)  
1.  Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland spend approximately 1.5% of the GDP on R&D 
initiatives, whereas the EU average largely exceeds 2% of th e GDP. Ireland ranks for 12th lowest 
country in terms of GPD spend on R&D among developed economies. Therefore there is a need to 
invest on R&D in order to boost economic growth in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  and also to target 3% of GDP f or overall R&D spending as agreed at the Barcelona European 
Council.  
The aim of the scheme is to address this weakness by encouraging and supporting enterprises to 
undertake collaborative cross -border research and technological development with commercial 
potential in order to stimulate growth, strengthen competitiveness and encourage flow of 
technology among network of companies, particularly SMEs in Northern Ireland and the Republic 
of Ireland.  
The scheme is mainly targeted at R&D in the Life Sciences, I CT, Agri -food & advanced engineering 
sectors. Thus, it will support companies that are developing their R&D activity in the wider life and 
health technologies sectors, acting in cross -border collaboration with other companies.  
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
The legal basis for the scheme is the British/Irish Agreement Act 1999, which authorises the 
awarding body (InterTradeIreland: a non -departmental body) to administer and fund projects 
under the proposed scheme.   
EC State aid references – SA. 41050  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Assistance will be provided in the form of non -repayable grants.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme is targeted at SME's, although large companies will be eligible to apply. The estimated 
number of recipient s is up to 35.  
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £)  
 
2015 £1.115  
2016 £1.022  
 
Scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
 
7. Duration of programme  
 
1 February 2015 -31 December 2020  
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
 
3  INTERTRADEI RELAND – CHALLENGE (2015 -2020)  
1.  Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
The InterTradeIreland Challenge Programme is aimed at SMEs to assist them in learning and 
applying a highly effective innovation process.  The compa nies will learn a proven process for 
methods of defining and commercialising new products and services and will be given one -to-one 
support to ensure that the new process is embedded into the company.   
 G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  3. Background and authority for the scheme  
 
The North /South Co -operation (Implementation Bodies) Northern Ireland Order 1999 – Section 2.3 
Part 7 of Annex II of the Act empowers InterTradeIreland to invest, grant aid or lend for the 
purposes of its function  
 
EC State aid references – SA. 41051  
 
4. Form of t he subsidy  
 
All aid awarded under the scheme will be transparent and will be in the form of consultancy 
support.   
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Indirect aid to SME 's in the form of subsidised consultancy services.   
 
6. Total UK expenditure ( in millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £0.054  
2016  £0.104  
 
Scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
 
7. Duration of programme  
 
1 February 2015 to 31 December 2020  
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
 
4  INTERTRADEIRELAND – INNOVA  
1. Period covered by  the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland spend approximately 1.5% of the GDP on R&D 
initiatives, whereas the EU average largely exceeds 2% of the GDP. Ireland ranks for 12th lowest 
country in term s of GPD spend on R&D among developed economies. Therefore there is a need to 
invest on R&D in order to boost economic growth in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland 
and also to target 3% of GDP for overall R&D spending as agreed at the Barcelona E uropean 
Council.  
 
The aim of the scheme is to address this weakness by encouraging and supporting enterprises to 
undertake collaborative cross -border research and technological development with commercial 
potential in order to stimulate growth, strengthen  competitiveness and encourage flow of 
technology among network of companies, particularly SMEs in Northern Ireland and the Republic 
of Ireland.  
 
The scheme is mainly targeted at R&D in the Life Sciences, ICT, Agri -food & advanced engineering 
sectors. Thu s, it will support companies that are developing their R&D activity in the wider life and 
health technologies sectors, acting in cross -border collaboration with other companies.  
 
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
 
The legal basis for the scheme i s the British/Irish Agreement Act 1999, which authorises the 
awarding body (InterTradeIreland: a non -departmental body) to administer and fund projects 
under the proposed scheme.   G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  EC State aid references – SA.37908 . 
 
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
Assistance will  be provided in the form of non -repayable grants.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The scheme is targeted at SME's, although large companies will be eligible to apply. The estimated 
number of recipients is up to 35.  
 
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £)  
 
2015 £0.164  
2016  £0.096  
 
Scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
 
7. Duration of programme  
 
1 January 2008 to 31 December 2014 – this scheme is closed to new applications . 
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available . 
 
5  DFC- URBAN DEVELOPMENT GR ANT SCHEME  
1. Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
Urban Development Grant is a discretionary grant with the objective of promoting job creation, 
inward investment and environmental improvement by act ing as a stimulus for the  development of 
vacant, derelict or underused land or buildings.  
 
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Department for Communities  (DfC) administers the Urban Development Grant scheme under 
the provisions of the Social N eed (Northern Ireland) Order 1986. Projects should fit within a wider 
strategic context, complementing other initiatives or strategies. Projects should be consistent with 
policy on tackling poverty and social exclusion and the Department's Statutory Equali ty 
Obligations. The scheme operates under the European Commission's General Block Exemption 
Regulation (GBER) and the EC State Aid scheme reference number is SA.41911.  The scheme was 
previously registered under the reference X20/2009.  
 
UK legal authority f or the scheme:  
 
 The Social Need (Northern Ireland) Order 1986.  
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
 
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy takes the form of a cash grant.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
UDG is currently available for speculative  developments, owner -occupier new -build and 
refurbishment schemes, in specific priority urban areas designated by DSD. The grant is available 
for a range of physical development projects in sectors such as inner/middle city housing, G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  commercial, retail and light industrial. The amount of grant offered is the minimum necessary to 
trigger a project.  
 
For speculative developments, the grant is based on the shortfall between the projected total 
development cost of a project and its value on completion (followin g appraisals carried out by 
Central Procurement Directorate Quantity Surveyors and Land and Property Services valuers 
respectively). Grants offered to owner -occupier projects are based on eligible costs only.  
 
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £3.1 
2016 £0.4 
 
The scheme is not co -financed by the EC.  
 
7. Duration of the programme  
 
UDG was first introduced in 1982 under the Social Need (Grants) Act (NI) 1970, which was 
subsequently replaced by the Social Need (NI) Order 1986. The form and focus  of the UDG scheme 
is reviewed periodically and policy is kept under continuous review.  
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
6  DFC - REGIONAL STADIA DEVE LOPMENT IN NORTHERN IRELAND  
1. Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 an d 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
The reconstruction of three old sports stadia in Belfast, in order to provide safe stadia for the three 
main sports of the region (namely: soccer; gaelic games and rugby) and in addition to regenerate 
deprived urban communitie s. The project will also encourage social cohesion in communities 
divided by religion to come together through sport, and will contribute to the NI Peace Process.  
 
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 
 Recreation  and Youth Service (Northern Ireland) Order 1986.  
 Northern Ireland Act 1998.  
 Departments (Northern Ireland) Order 1999.  
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
 
EC State aid reference – SA.37342.  
 
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grant.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsid y is provided  
 
The Irish Football Association, the Ulster Council of the Gaelic Athletic Association and the Ulster 
Branch of the Irish Rugby Football Union.  
 G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £18.159  
2016 £6.119  
 
The scheme is not co -financ ed by EC.  
 
7. Duration of the programme  
 
2012-2021 
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
 
7  DFE - ASSURED SKILLS  
1. Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
The aim of the programme is to attract h igh value, highly paid jobs to Northern Ireland and 
achieve the Executive's targets on productivity and wealth generation.  
 
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
 
Assured Skills is a joint Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) and Invest NI (IN I) 
programme to deliver a range of activities and interventions guaranteeing companies that 
Northern Ireland has the ability to satisfy their future skills and experience needs.  
 
EC State aid references – SA.40225  
 
4.  Form of the subsidy  
 
Grant.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Assured Skills is open to INI Client companies that have committed to expand, as well as new 
inward investors who have committed to establish a facility in Northern Ireland.  
 
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £0.451  
2016 £0.098  
 
7. Duration of programme  
 
1 Sep tember 2010 to 31 December 2020  
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
 G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  8  DFE - RENEWABLE HEAT INCEN TIVE (2012 -2020)  
1. Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
The Strategic Energy Framework (SEF), endorsed by the Northern Ireland Executive and published 
by DETI in September 2010, sets ambitious targets for renewable energy generation.   
 
For renewable heat a target of 10% has been set by the N orthern Ireland Executive. In 2010 the 
heat demand in Northern Ireland was assessed as being 17,362 GWh per year, of which 
around  1.7% (300 GWh) is from renewable sources.  
 
Looking forward to forward to 2020, Northern Ireland's overall heat demand is pred icted to drop 
from 17.4 TWh per year to 16.7 TWh per year, with rises in demand from new development being 
outweighed by reductions in demand with efficiency improvements in the existing sector. 
The 10% for renewable heat therefore equates to 1.6TWh (or an  additional 1.3 TWh when 
considering existing levels).  
 
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 
The Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme Regulations,  (Northern Ireland) 2012.  
The European Communities Act 197.2  
 
EC State  aid reference – SA.34140  
 
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
Technology based tariff incentives for renewable heat generated by the commercial sector.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
All eligible commercial renewable heat technology installations are en titled to a tariff based 
incentive payment for a 20 year period.  
 
6. Total Northern Ireland expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £20.4m  
2016 £44.3m  
 
Scheme is not co -financed by the EC.  
 
7. Duration of the programme  
 
1 July 2012 to 31 March 2040  
 
8. Assess ment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
 G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  9  DAERA - RESEARCH CHALLENGE F UND 
1. Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
 To improve the competitiveness of rural enterprises and create wealth from the research 
base; 
 To increase the number of agricultural and rural enterprises engaging in effective 
research and development and innovation (R&D&I) - including those participating for the 
first time - and the level of private sector expenditure on R&D&I;  
 To increase th e level of collaboration between Northern Ireland's rural enterprises and 
the local, national and international research base; and  
 To increase collaboration and effective co -operation between rural enterprises.  
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
 
The Scheme is designed to provide funding to consortia of industry and research providers to carry 
out innovative, high quality, pre -commercial research and technological development projects 
which have the potential to further the sustainability of Norther n Ireland's agri -food and rural 
enterprises.  
 
The legal base for the Scheme is Section 5 of the Agriculture Act (Northern Ireland) 1949 
(Chapter  2) (as amended).  
 
The legislation which gives effect to EC law in Northern Ireland is:  
 
European Communities Ac t (1972) (section 2(1)); and  
Northern Ireland Act (1998) (c. 47, p. II, s7 (1(a))).  
 
EC legal basis  
 
All State aid provided under this Scheme will be provided in compliance with the 2008 and 2014 
General Block Exemption Regulations.  
 
EC State aid referenc es SA.37738  
 
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
Subsidy is in the form of a Grant.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Industry partners must be from the agri -food and rural sector and have manufacturing or 
processing capability or other rural economic acti vity in Northern Ireland. Large enterprises, SMEs 
and SME representative or levy bodies can apply. Large enterprises must collaborate with at least 
one SME. Applications from single SMEs will not be accepted  
 
Research partners must be public sector researc h establishments. It is not essential for the 
research partner to be located in the Northern Ireland, but there must be a clear benefit to the 
region from the R & D.  
 
Only projects classified as industrial research or experimental development will be eligi ble for 
funding.  
 G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  Funding is provided in the form of grant assistance of up to a maximum of 50% of total eligible 
costs and up to a ceiling of £250,000 of public funding derived from any source. The grant is paid 
quarterly in arrears.  
 
6. Total UK expendit ure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £0.308  
2016 £0.216  
Scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
7. Duration of programme  
1 January 2008 to 31 October 2016  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  
10  DOJ – 6 OUT OF 10 PROJECT   
1. Period covered by the  notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
The overall objective of the project is to change the life of the young child by targeting their young 
parent through a mix of family, parenting and training interventions and employment for one year 
in a so cial enterprise set up specifically to aid the young parent with developing the skills they 
need to secure permanent employment.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
UK legal authority - Section 94, Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 and the Europe an 
Communities Act 1972.  
EC State aid reference – SA.39918.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The Book Reserve, a Community Interest Company, via a 3 year grant.  
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
2015 £0.063  
2016 £0.099  
The scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
7. Duration of the programme  
November 2016 -April 2017  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  
11  TOURISM NI - HMS CAROLINE  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
To undertake a major programme of restoration to HMS Caroline and to present her as a high 
quality visitor attraction within Titanic Quarter, Belfast.  
HMS Caroline is the last survivor of the First World War British Grand Fleet and of the Battle  of 
Jutland, the World 's greatest naval battle, fought in 1916. She is therefore a vessel of both 
national and international importance, an iconic ship and one of only 200 vessels listed in the 
National Historic Ships Register. She is considered by NMRN to  be second in importance only 
to HMS Victory  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
Tourism Development Scheme (TDS) (Tourism (Financial Assistance) Scheme)  1992 
The European Communities Act (1972)  
EC State aid refer ence – SA.41015 & SA.46763  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Direct grant to The National Museum of the Royal Navy . 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Direct grant to The National Museum of the Royal Navy . 
6. Total Northern Ireland expenditure (in  millions of  £) 
2015 £0.229m  
2016 £1.593m  
Scheme is not co -financed by the EC.  
7. Duration of the programme  
January 2015 -31 March 2018  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  12  SEUPB – SPIRE PROJECT  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and  2016 
2. Policy objectives  
Aid for environmental studies linked to investments in the promotion of energy from renewable 
sources.  
This environmental study is part of a larger project that is investigating the potential for 
compressed air to be used as an  energy storage medium. This element will investigate the 
potential of salt caverns as a Compressed Air Energy Storage medium.  
The SPIRE project will provide an informed evidence base on the potential to develop the salt 
caverns below Larne as a Compressed  Air Energy Storage medium which, working in tandem with 
wind energy, will lead to reductions in carbon emissions by reducing the amount of electricity that 
has to be generated using conventional fossil fuels.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The purpose of the SPIRE project (Storage Platform for the Integration of Renewable Energy) is to 
establish the value of energy storage as a variability management mechanism for the Irish all -
island electricity market by undertaking modelling and aspects of  demonstration, in order to 
determine the storage technologies best suited to meeting market needs at the small (domestic), 
medium (distributed) and large (utility) scale.  
The SPIRE project aims to assess the economic and technical feasibility of energy st orage types at 
three distinct levels:  
 Large scale energy storage - facilitate to exploration of salt deposits at Larne to 
determine whether the area is technically capable of supporting the large scale storage 
(approximately 1 Gigawatt -hour) of energy with in a compressed air energy storage 
(CAES) facility.  
 Medium scale energy storage - assess energy storage at an individual industrial site or 
campus.  
 Small scale energy storage - trial the application of small scale energy storage systems 
(e.g. hot water sto rage systems) at the test houses ("Terrace Street") in the  UU. 
This will be completed via three distinct work packages:  
 Modelling.  
 Laboratory Evaluation.  
 Final Evaluation.  
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 
 The British Irish Agreement Act 1999.  
 The Euro pean Communities Act 1972.  
EC State aid references – SA.40275.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The total cost of the SPIRE project is £3,737,076.  
This will be funded by an INTERREG IVA grant of £2,932,733 which has been awarded to the 
University of Ulster as Lead Partner. £804,344 will be provided by a private sector company, 
Gaelectric.  
6. Total UK expenditure(in  millions of £ ) 
2015 £0.148  
2016 £0.00  
 
The total amount of State aid is £1,876,803 (i.e. 70% of £2,681,1 47) of which 77.49% 
(£1,454,335) will be UK State aid and 22.51% (£422,468) will be Irish State aid. This Member 
State aid is also subject to an ERDF co -financing rate of 75%.  
 
7. Duration of the programme  
 
1st July 2013 -31st October 2015  
 
8. Assessment o f trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
 
13  NI SCREEN FUND  
1. Period covered by the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
The primary objective is to provide financial assistance for the development and production of 
moving image or au diovisual product. Funds will be provided to help deliver a consistent flow of 
high quality and culturally significant programming including Irish Language programming with the 
ultimate aim of ensuring that the culture and creative potential of Northern Ir eland is expressed 
through moving image. The Fund is in line with the Communication on certain legal aspects 
relating to cinematographic and other audio -visual guidelines (2002/C 43/04).  
 
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
Education and Library S ervices etc. Grants Regulation (Northern Ireland) 1994.  
Industrial Development Act (Northern Ireland) 2002.  
 
EC State aid reference – SA.33920 & SA .45277  
 
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
Loan.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The Scheme is limited to f ilm and television production companies.  
 
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £11.312  
2016 £10.579  
 
Co-financed 50% ERDF 1 Jan 2015 to 31 March 2015 . 
 G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  7. Duration of the programme  
1 April 2012 to 31 March 2020  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  
14  INVEST NI – GRANT FOR R&D&I SCHE ME 
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
- to support research, development and innovation (R&D&I) activities undertaken within 
Northern Ireland companies,  
- to encourage collaboration and effective co -operation between companies and higher and 
education institutions including research organizations to raise both the level and the quality 
of commercially relevant R&D activity,  
- to stimulate R&D and innovati on and encourage best practice throughout business, foster 
the creation and development of innovative business starts, help firms develop innovative 
products, processes and internationally tradable services with commercial potential, boost 
the scale releva ncy of R&D&I in Northern Ireland through increased business as well as 
higher education expenditure in R&D.  
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
The objectives of the scheme are also focused on the increase both of the number of companies 
performing effective R&D&I and the number of companies participating in R&D&I for the first time.  
EC State aid references – SA.40154  
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 The Industrial Development Act (NI) 2002.  
 The Industrial Development Order (NI) 1982.  
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Grants, loans and equity investments.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
SMEs and large companies in Northern Ireland in manufacturing and traded services sectors.  
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of  £) 
2015 £32m  
2016 £14.5m  
Scheme is co -financed by EC through the European Regional Development Fund . 
7. Duration of programme  
2 January 2008 to 31 December 2020.  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  15  INVEST NI – NI SPIN -OUTS (N ISPO) RISK CAPITAL  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
To encourage growth of early -stage young innovative enterprises in Northern Ireland and facilitate 
the commercialisation of research and development by universities  and companies.  
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
The scheme forms part of Invest NI's on -going strategy to develop the venture capital / risk 
capital sector in Northern Ireland.  
EC State aid reference – N652/2007.  
UK legal authority for the schem e: 
 The Industrial Development (NI) Order 1982.  
 The Industrial Development (NI) Act 2002.  
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Government participation in funds venture capital, disbursed to young innovative enterprises 
principally in the form of equity but also repayable advances or soft loans. The aid is provided in 
the forms of a guarantee to investors in the fund and in the form of equity or debt to 
investee  SMEs.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The subsidy is provided t o investors in the funds and investee SMEs.  
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
2015 £0.342m  
2016 £0 
The scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
7. Duration of programme  
1 April 2008 to 1 April 2018.  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is av ailable.  
16  INVEST NI – SELECTIVE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SCHEME  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  2. Policy objectives  
 
This is the principal scheme of assistance in Northern Ireland to attract new inward investment, to 
facilitate new start -up enterprises and to encourage existing companies to develop their 
international competitiveness leading to growth and greater employment opportunities.  
 
SMEs are eligible for all types if investment projects.  In respect of large companies, 
the SFA Scheme supports the setting up of a new establishment, the starting up of a new 
economic activity or the extension of an existing establishment or involving a fundamental change 
in the product or production process.  
 
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
 
EC State aid references –SA.39233.  
 
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 
 The Industrial Development Act (NI) 2002.  
 The Industrial Development Order (NI) 1982.  
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
 
Capital grant, employment related reven ue grant, loan or loan guarantees or share capital.  
 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Companies in the manufacturing and international traded service sectors (in line with EU 
restrictions on shipbuilding, coal and steel, synthetic fibres, trans portation, agricultural production, 
fisheries and aquaculture).  
 
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £46m  
2016 £46m  
 
Eligible SME capital expen diture is co -financed by the EC.  
 
7. Duration of Programme  
 
2 July 2014 to 31 December 2020  
 
8. Assessment of Trade effects  
 
An evaluation of the Selective Financial Assistance scheme over the period 2004/05 to 2010/11 is 
available on the website of the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment for Northern 
Ireland: https://www.economy -ni.gov.uk/publications/evaulation -selective -financial -assistance -
northern -ireland -2004-2011 
 
17  INVEST NI – GROWTH LOAN FUND  
1. Period covered by  the notification  
 
2015 and 2016  
 
2. Policy objectives  
 
To increase start -up and expansion funding for SME companies located in Northern Ireland 
(an assisted area) which have growth potential but which find it difficult to access capital markets.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  3. Backgr ound and authority for the subsidy  
 
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 
 Industrial Development Act (NI) 2002.  
 Industrial Development Order (NI) 1982.  
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
EC State aid reference – SA.34997.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Equity and qu asi equity risk and loan capital finance . 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Northern Ireland SMEs in the manufacturing and traded services sectors  
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
2015 £4.5m  
2016 £3.5m  
Scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
7. Duration of the programme  
1 June 2012 -31 May 2022  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  
18  INVEST NI - RESOURCE EFFICIENCY CAPITAL GRANT  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
To enable business t o achieve water and material efficiencies beyond EU regulatory requirements.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 Industrial Development Act (NI) 2002.  
 Industrial Development Order (NI) 1982.  
 The European Communiti es Act 1972.  
EC State aid reference – SA.43599 . 
4. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Northern Ireland manufacturing and traded services companies . G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
 
2015 £0 
2016 £0.5m  
Scheme is not co -financed by EC.  
7. Duration of the programme  
13 November 2015 -31 December 2020  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  
19  INVEST NI – TECHSTART   
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
Provision  of start -up and growth capital to knowledge based high growth potential start -ups in 
Northern Ireland.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 Industrial Development Act (NI) 2002.  
 Industrial Development Order (NI) 1 982. 
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
EC State aid reference – SA.39644.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Equity, quasi equity, grant, loan . 
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Northern Ireland manufacturing and traded services companies.  
6. Total UK expend iture (in  millions of £ ) 
2015 £2m 
2016 £0.8m  
Scheme is co -financed by EC.  
7. Duration of the programme  
13 September 2014 -30 June 2024  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  20  INVEST NI – RESCUE AND RES TRUCTURING SCHEME 20 15 TO 2020  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
The rescuing and restructuring of non -financial undertakings in difficulty in Northern Ireland  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 Industri al Development Act (NI) 2002.  
 Industrial Development Order (NI) 1982.  
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
EC State aid references – N717a/2001, SA.42847.  
The Rescue and Restructuring operates under the European Commission's Rescue and 
Restru cturing Guidelin es 2014 -2020.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Grant, Equity, Loan.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme applies to all SMEs and smaller State owned enterprises in difficulty, except those 
operating in the coal or steel sector .  
6. Total UK expendit ure (in  millions of £ ) 
2015 £0.2m  
2016 £0.1m  
The Scheme is not co -financed by EC . 
7. Duration of the programme  
7 August 2015 to 31 December 2020  
8. Assessment of trade effects  
No statistical data is available.  
21  INVEST NI – SKILLS, STRATEGY AND  INNOVATION SO LUTIONS  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy objectives  
Invest NI 's Skills, Strategy and Innovation Solutions provide financial support to manufacturing 
and tradable service companies to increase their competitiveness. The programm e of support 
covers new business start -up, training, SME consultancy, clustering and SME innovation.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
UK legal authority for the scheme:  
 Industrial Development Act (NI) 2002.  
 Industrial Development Order (NI) 1982 . 
 The European Communities Act 1972.  
EC State aid reference – SA.40270.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
Direct grant.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
SMEs and large enterprise . 
6. Total UK expenditure (in  millions of £ ) 
2015 £7.8m  
2016 £8.3m  
 
This scheme  is not co -financed by the EC . 
 
7. Duration of the programme  
 
1 January 2015 to 31 December 2020  
 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
 
No statistical data is available.  
22  HIE GENERAL BLOCK EX EMPTION SCHEME  
1. Title 
SA.39220 - HIE General Block Exemption Scheme . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
3. Policy objectives  
As a Scottish Government Agency, HIE 's role is to lead regional growth and development, to seek 
investment opportunities that will be a catalyst for change, and to ensure that the High lands and 
Islands derives maximum benefit from existing and emerging opportunities.  
HIE provides financial assistance to commercial undertakings as one of a number of activities 
designed to deliver a wide ranging strategy for the development of the region.  In practice this 
involves providing infrastructure and services at HIE 's own hand and financial assistance to firms 
and business support services, all of which are managed to comply with State aid rules and 
regulations or are provided on market terms.  All proposals for HIE expenditure are subject to 
individual appraisal of the applicant 's business plan against Strategic fit, economic impact and 
commercial viability, value for money, risks and State aid compliance.   
The HIE GBE scheme provides HIE with lega l powers to provide State aid to the extent that it is 
necessary in the context of the individual proposal, with the result that HIE is able to make awards 
bespoke for the beneficiary 's minimum financial requirements and to optimise the public benefits.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  The scheme is therefore comprehensive in cover, but is intended to be applied in a highly focussed 
and discretionary way at the level of individual proposals.   
The scheme provides the following aid:  
 Regional investment aid (Article 14)  
 Investment aid to SMEs  (Article 17)  
 Aid to SMEs for participation in fairs (Article 19)  
 Aid for cooperation costs incurred by SMEs in ETC project (Article 20)  
 Risk finance aid (Article 21)  
 Start-up aid for newly created small enterprises (Article 22)  
 Start-up aid for young inno vative small enterprises (Article 22)  
 Aid for scouting costs (Article 24)  
 Aid for research and development projects (Article 25)  
 Investment for research infrastructures (Article 26)  
 Aid for innovation clusters (Article 27)  
 Innovation aid for SMEs (Article 28) 
 Aid for process and organisation innovation (Article 29)  
 Aid for R&D in the fishery and aquaculture sector (Article 30)  
 Training aid (Article 31)  
 Aid for the recruitment of disadvantaged workers (Article 32)  
 Aid for the employment of workers with disab ilities (Article 33)  
 Aid for the additional costs of employing workers with disabilities (Article 34)  
 Aid for the costs of assistance provided to disadvantaged workers (Article 35)  
 Aid for going beyond EU environmental protection standards (Article 36)  
 Investment aid for early adaptation to future EU standards (Article 37)  
 Investment aid for energy efficiency measures (Article 38)  
 Aid for energy efficiency projects in buildings (Article 39)  
 Investment aid for high -efficiency cogeneration (Article 40)  
 Capita l investment in the promotion of energy from renewable sources (Article 41)  
 Investment aid for remediation of contaminated sites (Article 45)  
 Investment aid for energy efficient district heating and cooling (Article 46)  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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   Investment aid for waste recycling a nd re-utilisation (Article 47)  
 Investment aid for energy infrastructure (Article 48)  
 Aid for environmental studies (Article 49)  
 Aid for broadband infrastructure (Article 52)  
 Aid for culture and heritage conservation (Article 53)  
 Aid schemes for audio -visual works (Article 54)  
 Aid for sport and multifunctional recreational infrastructure (Article 55)  
 Aid for local infrastructures (Article 56)  
4. Background and authority for the scheme  
The scheme forms part of the economic and community development activity o f the Scottish 
Government 's regional development agency in the Highlands and Islands region of Scotland.  
Highlands and Islands Enterprise was created by an act of Parliament as a non -departmental 
regional body (Enterprise and New Towns Act [Scotland] 1990) . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Direct grant . 
Interest subsidy . 
Soft loan . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Subsidies are provided after appraisal of a business plan to support firms of all sizes.  Some 
measures are only provided to small and medium size d firms (according to the EU definition of an 
SME) and some measures provide aid to both large and small firms, usually at higher grant rates 
for SMEs than for larger firms.  Firms must be undertaking new development in the qualifying area; 
the Highlands an d Islands region of Scotland.  Subsidies are offered to the minimum extent 
necessary for the project to proceed, must contribute to the regional development policies and 
must be eligible under EU State aid procedures.  
7. Total amount budgeted (£m ) 
2015 £7.96m 
2016 £6.25m  
8. Duration of programme  
1st July 2014 to 31st December 2020  
9. Assessment of trade effects  
Subsidy levels conform to EU State aid guidelines which control aid to levels anticipated to restrict 
trade distortion to levels acceptable under EU and WTO State aid agreements which aim to achieve 
a positive balance in favour of development of the wider economy.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  23  SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE ENVIRO NMENTAL PROTECTION S CHEME 2014 -2020  
1. Title 
SA.39216  - Scottish Enterprise Enviro nmental Protection Scheme 2014 -2020. 
2. Period covered  
2015 and 2016  
3. Policy objective  
The principal objective of the Scheme is to encourage investment in environmental protection 
measures by companies in Scotland to secure both long term economic benefits to Scotland and 
help achieve Scotland's low carbon targets.  
4. Background and authority  
The Scottish Enterprise Environmental Protection Scheme 2014 - 2020 (the "Scheme") operates 
under Commission Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of 
aid compatib le with the common market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty as 
published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 26 June 2014 (the "Regulation").  
The legal basis for the Scheme is the European Communities Act 1972 and the Enterp rise and New 
Towns (Scotland) Act 1990, as amended 1 April 2001, by Scottish Statutory Instrument 2001 
No. 126. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Principally grant contribution . 
6. To whom and how provided  
Aid can be awarded to enterprises of all sizes.  Applicants mu st submit an application for assistance 
to SE before work on the project or activity has started, and the application must be approved in 
writing before work can commence on the project.  
7. Amount  
2015 £0.3m  
2016 £0.8m  
8. Duration  
2014-2020 
9. Assessment o f the trade effects  
Potential recipients potentially participate in trade between Member States. The scheme is 
therefore regarded by the Commission as affecting trade.  The aid is regarded as compatible with 
the Treaty as its objectives concur with the Regu lation.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  24  SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE TRAINING, DISADVANTA GED WORKERS AND WORK ERS 
WITH DISABILITIES SC HEME 2014 -2020  
1. Title 
SA.39218  - Scottish Enterprise Training, Disadvantaged Workers and Workers with Disabilities 
Scheme 2014 -2020. 
2. Period covered  
2015 and 20 16 
3. Policy objectives  
The principal objectives of the Scheme are to encourage investment in training by companies in 
Scotland and promote the recruitment and employment of disadvantaged workers and workers 
with disabilities.  
4. Background and authority  
The Scottish Enterprise Training Scheme 2014 - 2020 (the "Scheme") operates under Commission 
Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid compatible with 
the common market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Trea ty as published in the Official 
Journal of the European Union on 26 June 2014 (the "Regulation").  
The legal basis for the Scheme is the European Communities Act 1972 and the Enterprise and New 
Towns (Scotland) Act 1990, as amended 1 April 2001, by Scottish  Statutory Instrument 2001 
No. 126. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Principally grant contribution  
6. To whom and how provided  
Aid can be awarded to enterprises of all sizes.  Applicants must submit an application for assistance 
to SE before work on the project or a ctivity has started and the application must be approved in 
writing before work can commence on the project.  
7. Amount  
2015 £2.4m  
2016 £3.5m  
8. Duration  
2014-2020 
9. Assessment of the trade effects  
Potential recipients potentially participate in trade betw een Member States. The scheme is 
therefore regarded by the Commission as affecting trade.  The aid is regarded as compatible with 
the Treaty as its objectives concur with the Regulation.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  25  SE SME AID SCHEME 20 14-2020  
1. Title 
SA.39147  - SE SME Aid Scheme 2014 -2020. 
2. Period covered  
2015 and 2016  
3. Policy objective  
The principal objective of the Scheme is to encourage development and growth of businesses in 
Scotland through increasing competitiveness, efficiency and exploitation of commercial potential.  
4. Background and authority  
The Scottish Enterprise SME Aid Scheme 2014 - 2020 (the "Scheme") operates under Commission 
Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid compatible with 
the common market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty as published in the Official 
Journal of the European Union on 26 June 2014 (the "Regulation").  
The legal basis for the Scheme is the European Communities Act 1972 and the Enterprise and New 
Towns (Scotland) Act 1990, as amended 1 April 2001, by Scottish Statutory Instrument 2001 
No. 126. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Principally grant contribution . 
6. To whom and how provided  
In general, aid will only be provided to SMEs.  Aid to large enterprises under this Scheme is only 
permitted for en vironmental studies. Applicants must submit an application for assistance to 
SE before work on the project or activity has started, and the application must be approved in 
writing before work can commence on the project.  
7. Amount  
2015 £8.9m  
2016 £12.9m  
8. Duration  
2014-2020 
9. Assessment of the trade effects  
Potential recipients potentially participate in trade between Member States. The scheme is 
therefore regarded by the Commission as affecting trade.  The aid is regarded as compatible with 
the Treaty as its objectives concur with the Regulation.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  26  SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE RESEARCH AND DEVELOP MENT AND INNOVATION SC HEME 
2014 -2020  
1. Title 
SA.39215  - Scottish Enterprise Research and Developme nt and Innovation Scheme 2014 -2020. 
2. Period covered  
2015 and 2016  
3. Policy objective  
The principal objective of the Scheme is to encourage enterprises in Scotland to undertake 
innovative research and technological development with commercial potential in order to stimulate 
growth, strengthen competitiveness and boost employme nt in Scotland.  
4. Background and authority  
The Scottish Enterprise Research and Developm ent and Innovation Scheme 2014 -2020 
(the "Scheme") operates under Commission Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 
declaring certain categories of aid compatible  with the common market in application of 
Articles  107 and 108 of the Treaty as published in the Official Journal of the European Union 
on 26 June 2014 (the  "Regulation").  
The legal basis for the Scheme is the European Communities Act 1972 and the Enterpri se and New 
Towns (Scotland) Act 1990, as amended 1 April 2001, by Scottish Statutory Instrument 2001 
No. 126. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Principally grant contribution . 
6. To whom and how provided  
Aid can be awarded to enterprises of all sizes.  Applicants must  submit an application for assistance 
to SE before work on the project or activity has started, and the application must be approved in 
writing before work can commence on the project.  
7. Amount  
2015 £19.0m  
2016 £18.2m  
8. Duration  
2014-2020 
9. Assessment o f the trade effects  
Potential recipients potentially participate in trade between Member States. The scheme is 
therefore regarded by the Commission as affecting trade.  The aid is regarded as compatible with 
the Treaty as its objectives concur with the Regu lation.  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  27  REGIONAL GROWTH FUND  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2015 and 2016  
2. Policy Objectives  
The Regional Growth Fund (RGF) operates across England. Its two key objectives are:  
To stimulate enterprise by providing support for projects and programm es with significant 
potential for economic growth, leveraging in private sector investment, and creating additional 
sustainable private sector employment; and,  
To support in those areas currently dependent on the public sector to make the transition to 
sustainable private sector -led growth and prosperity.  
Until 2016 the RGF was made available through bidding rounds ending with Round 6.  Following the 
2015 Spending Review no future rounds are proposed.  Companies and programmes that were 
awarded grants throug h Rounds 1 -6 will continue to receive their funding.  
The exceptional Regional Growth Fund (eRGF) will remain in place for genuinely exceptional bids 
that present an opportunity or address significant economic shocks.   eRGF funding will be limited 
and only  exceptionally strong bids will be supported  
3. Background and authority for the scheme  
In October 2010, under plans to rebalance the economy, the UK government set out its role in 
supporting locally driven growth, encouraging business investment and promo ting economic 
development. To support this objective, it established the Regional Growth Fund.  
The legal basis for RGF awards is primarily the Industrial Development Act 1982 Sections 7 and 8. 
Those sections empower the Secretary of State to provide selec tive financial assistance, 
respectively for industry in Assisted Areas and for industry generally.  
4. Form of the subsidy  
The RGF provides primarily grants but also some loans. Funds are provided direct to end 
beneficiaries through projects, where there is  a minimum bid threshold of £1 million, or through 
programmes, which are administered by scheme managers.  
5. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The RGF is a competitive fund with bidders in England invited to submit bids for funding, either for 
a proj ect or through a programme, in bidding rounds; there have been six rounds to date. Private 
sector firms and public -private partnerships were eligible to bid for funding in rounds 1 to 4 and 
private sector firms only were eligible to bid for funding in roun ds 5 & 6. In 2013 a policy was 
introduced to accept exceptional RGF (eRGF) funding applications; this allows the RGF to be more 
flexible and respond to urgent requests for funding outside the bidding rounds where there is a 
significant economic opportunity . 
The RGF is not targeted at particular sectors or at a particular size of firms. Bids are appraised on 
how well they meet the main objectives of the RGF by assessment of five criteria. These are 
project location, additionality, sustainable private sector growth, value for money, and state aid 
compliance.  
6. Total amount budgeted   
2015 £464m  
2016 £252m  G/SCM/N/315/EU/Add.28  
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  7. Duration of programme   
The RGF scheme started in 2011/12 and f unds are to be drawn down by 20 17/18. 
8. Assessment of trade effects  
The RGF is a supply -side intervention which addresses market failures and other related barriers to 
business investment at the firm and local/regional level. It supports projects and programmes that 
lever private sector investment to create economic growth and sustainable employ ment. National 
displacement impacts are considered on a case by case basis to minimise any trade effects. 
It is notified as a scheme under the EU General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER) and awards 
are generally made in compliance with GBER or the EU de m inimis regulations.  
 
__________