RURAL DEVELOPMENT BEYOND EAFRD - ENHANCING ROMANIAN RURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP THROUGH COMPLEMENTARY EU FUNDS AND PROJECTS

The development of rural entrepreneurship in Romania is highly influenced by the European funding. The European Union provides support for different areas, including rural development and agriculture. Also, it aids people in their development in terms of education and job integration. In order to support development programs and create social and economic value in rural communities, the EU has provided funds tackling specific needs of these communities. Along with the European agricultural fund for rural development (EAFRD, there are other funds, such as the ERDF and the ESF, that have an impact on rural development. With 35.3% of the ESIF allocated budget for Romania in 2014-2020, ERDF encourages the creation of new businesses, both in the agricultural and non-agricultural industries. In Romania, ESF projects are implemented in the idea of investing in people by creating new employment opportunities and ensuring better living standards among marginalized communities. The paper aims to present the impact of the EU structural and investment funds on rural entrepreneurship development by analysing results and good practices of these funds. Methods used include literature review, as a qualitative method, and computations and graphical representations in MS Excel, as quantitative research methods. For rural development, the implementation of ESIF funds in 2014-2020 complement the support provided in the context of LEADER initiatives, funded under the EAFRD. Community Lead Local Development (CLLD) is an example of how European funds work together for a common goal. In conclusion, results of the study enhance the importance of using a connected and integrated use of funds from various areas. National strategies imply financial aid from multiple funds, in order to have a coherent overall strategy, in accordance with the competitiveness requirements at the European level.