Interreg NPA Programme Manual

1. Interreg NPA and the Youth Call

Interreg NPA (Northern Periphery and Arctic) is a funding programme that supports people and organisations to work together across different countries. It helps communities share ideas, learn from each other and create solutions to common challenges.

Where does it happen?

The programme covers some of Europe’s most northern and remote regions, including parts of Sweden, Finland, Norway, Ireland, Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands.

Why does it matter?

Many places in the NPA region face similar challenges. Communities can be far apart, populations can be small, and access to services or opportunities can sometimes be limited. Instead of solving these problems alone, people can work together and learn from each other.

What is transnational cooperation?

Interreg NPA is a transnational cooperation programme because it spreads across 7 different countries divided by seas, mountains, and cultures. Transnational cooperation is more than online meetings across different time zones – it is an experience in itself.

Working transnationally is about building understanding, perspectives, and connections that last beyond the project period. Cooperating across longer distances is naturally more challenging, but also highly rewarding, as it allows partners to explore different sides of the same problem and bring in cultural perspectives that enrich the work.

How to work transnationally?
  • Be curious about how others see the same challenge and how they approach it 

  • Go beyond just dividing tasks - design activities where partners work together and learn from each other

  • The aim is not for everyone to do the same thing, but for each partner to contribute something different to a shared outcome

  • Bring your own experience while staying open to other perspectives and new ideas

What makes it special for young people?

Through the Youth Call, the Interreg NPA gives young people a chance to connect with others, share ideas, and help shape their communities. Through youth call projects, young people can test ideas, learn new skills, build networks and create positive change where they live.

The Interreg NPA is not just about money. It is about teamwork, learning, and creating opportunities together. Even small projects can open the door to new experiences, partnerships, and ideas for the future.

For the Youth Call, what is the age limit for youth? Can children also be involved?

Interreg NPA defines young people as those aged 35 and below. Any organisation working with or for young people in this age group can apply, as long as young people have a meaningful role in the project.

Interreg NPA funds organisations only – individual grants are not supported.

Organisations working with children are also welcome to take part in projects.

Read the Terms of Reference.