On 15 February 2008 North West Network attended the launch of the new ERDFi programme. The event was held at St. George’s Hall, Liverpool. In the new programming period for 2007-13 the North West Development Agency will have the responsibility for managing the new ERDF programme. The North West Programme Management Committee (PMC) has been formed to monitor, oversee and advise on the delivery of the Programme and comprises 25 senior representatives from across the region. For the first time, there will be a single ERDF programme for the whole region, with a single set of objectives that supports the EUi 'Growth and Jobs' agenda. The programme is also aligned with the Northwest Regional Economic Strategy. Attendance at the launch event was excellent with partners from all sectors attending. The event was opened by Keith Barnes, Chair of the PMC and Regional Director GONWi. Steve Broomhead, Chief Executive of the NWDAi made a presentation about the key economic challenges for the North West, and said ‘The NWDA wishes to encourage a culture of openness and trust in the new programme’. David Malpass, the NWDA director of the ERDF Programme presented an outline of the North West Operational Programme. In his presentation David specifically mentioned the Venture fund, which will allow smaller companies and social enterprises with good ideas to access venture capital and grow, and in doing so create jobs. David thought that ‘Voluntary and Community Sector involvement is very important (in the programme) … … at this point in time’. The Director of the DG Regional Policy Jose Palma Anders was delighted to be back in the North West for the launch of the programme and stressed that the building of partnerships will be crucial to the success of the programme. The launch closed with a question and answer session. The ERDF programme will be open to applications from 3 March 2008. For further information on the new ERDF programme, please visit www.erdfnw.co.uk