The new call for tenders for the presentation of proposals in the framework of the INTI Programme 2006 has been published in the Official Gazette of the European Union. The Programme is the operational arm of the Commission dedicated to the funding of preparatory measures aimed at the promotion of the integration of citizens of third countries. Benefiting from a budget for 2006 of 5 million euros, the Programme pursues three objectives: supporting the construction of trans-national networks of cooperation and pilot projects aimed at identifying, exchanging and evaluating good practices and new approaches in the field of integration; improving basic knowledge for the development of integration policies at the EU level; and supporting trans-national dialogue and awareness in the field of integration. The Programme will fund projects of a value comprised between 100,000 and 500,000 euros: the deadline for the presentation of bids is 20 October. It will be the last of its kind, given that the new European Fund for the Integration of Citizens of Third Countries will come into force next year, with an overall budget of 825 million euros for the period 2007-2013.
