Dear Friends,
I am looking at your shared results and I feel proud of all of you for the successes reached.
I wanted to see those numbers (that are just summing up the efforts behind each Project) because I would like each of you to spend a few minutes to observe the great work that has been done over these years.
As this programming phase ended, even my role as Fund Director of the EEA & Norway Grants Regional Funds draws to a close: you know I always considered myself more a colleague, but I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and pride for all that we have accomplished together, that is why I will always be grateful for this opportunity, I just hope I have been useful to you in some way.
Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to foster cooperation, development, and innovation across our countries, and the results speak for themselves.
One of our greatest successes has been our unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable development and addressing key challenges facing our communities: again, you can judge looking at the numbers presented here below. Through our various initiatives, you have made significant strides in areas such as environmental protection, social inclusion, economic growth, NEETs support. Whether it’s supporting renewable energy projects, empowering marginalised groups, or fostering entrepreneurship, your efforts have had a tangible and lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Furthermore, our collaborative approach has been instrumental in building strong partnerships and networks within our region and beyond, connecting people. By working closely with local governments, civil society organisations, schools and universities and other stakeholders, you have been able to leverage our resources and expertise to maximize our impact and reach. And what to say about the Regional Funds Online Mag? Together, we have created a platform for dialogue, exchange, and cooperation that will continue to drive positive change long into the future, I am sure.
As I reflect on my time into this Family that grown up, I am humbled by the dedication and passion of all those who have been part of this journey. From our staff and partners to the communities we serve, each and every one of you has played a vital role in this success. Your hard work, creativity, and resilience have been the driving force behind our achievements, and I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support.
We don’t know what the future holds for us, but I am filled with optimism and confidence in the continued success of the EEA & Norway Grants Regional Funds’ impacts on the ground. While our work is far from over, I am certain that with your continued commitment and collaboration, you will overcome any challenges that lie ahead and continue to make a positive difference in the lives of millions.
In closing, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to our shared mission. It has been an honor and a privilege to be not only your Fund Director, but especially your Friend, and I look forward to seeing the incredible impact that we will continue to make in the years to come, one way or another.
Last but not the least, a big thank also goes to all the colleagues who read, from Poland to Italy and passing through Brussels, where it all began. THANK YOU for your commitment, for your perseverance (and, sometimes, patience 😊 ).
Gian Luca Bombarda
