Programme evaluation and indicators

The evaluation of programmes particularly focuses on three distinct parts of programme activities:

• Monitoring is the collection of information and data, to measure change over time.
• Evaluating, is about analysing the effectiveness and direction of an activity.
• Reporting, is focused on providing required data to bodies.

Combined, strong monitoring, evaluating and reporting collects good data, ensures the accountability and effectiveness of the programme and its projects.

Where to start

To begin, we recommend the Interreg Evaluation Foundations Certified Training (November - December 2025), which is ideal for those new to the field of evaluation. It provides essential knowledge for Interreg programme officers. For those with more experience, the Interreg Evaluation Practitioners Certified Training (January - February 2025) offers a deeper understanding, along with practical experience to handle evaluation tasks effectively. 

Additionally, the Evaluation plan briefing document outlines the core requirements for evaluation plans, with further clarifications provided through a Q&A with the Commission.

Finally, Common Interreg Indicators 2021-2027 report reflects the current use of Interreg’s common indicators across 86 Interreg programmes, including early qualitative feedback to identify policy insights to inform the future direction of Interreg post-2027.

What we are working on

In 2025 we are continuing efforts to improve evaluation practices across Interreg programmes, with a focus on indicators, Terms of Reference (ToRs), and impact evaluation strategies.

Indicators in action: We will continue the work to address challenges in interpreting current indicators, achieving targets, and developing indicators for post-2027, depending on the performance-based approach.

Terms of reference (ToRs) for evaluations (March): Our goal is to guide programmes in developing clear, well-structured ToRs for operational and impact evaluations, ensuring fair competition and effective procurement processes. We will provide practical examples to support this.

Developing a theory of change and impact pathways: We will explore ways to help Interreg programmes better formulate assumptions, define impacts, and create pathways to success, as many programmes struggle with impact evaluations.

Joining forces in evaluation (pilot activity):  three valuation pilots launched in 2024 and will continue in 2025. This initiative aims to support impact evaluations through a collaborative, bottom-up approach. Participating programmes will define common evaluation questions, share methodologies, and develop unified evaluation methods. The current pilots are:

·       Harmonized approach to capture & highlight the added value of Interreg (April)

·       Evaluating ISO1 governance achievements with a holistic perspective (Q3)

·       How are the programmes adding value to the MRS and SBS (Q3).

Contact 

For more information please contact Daniela Minichberger.

Exchange Community

Interact offers an online space on the topic of Results and Evaluation, where people working in this field can to share information and exchange. If you would like to learn more about this, please contact Daniela Minichberger.

If you are already a member of the Community, you can access it here.