The Network Strategic Development Scheme (NSDS) aims at addressing the logistical and operational needs of the Head of Network Institutions in order to increase their capacity and effectiveness as Network coordinators in steering and mobilizing their Networks, and to improve the operational efficiency of the Network in developing intercultural actions.

The allocation of NSDS financial support is inspired by two guiding principles:

• speeding up the development of the least developed and newest Networks;
• rewarding the most active Networks.

During Steps 1 and 2, the Foundation supported the logistical needs for 35 Heads of Network (HoN) Institutions with the total amount of 0.503€ million. Networks were required to develop and adopt Network Internal Rules and a Network Development and Action Plan, following consultation and participation mechanisms. For the first time, the National Networks were requested to have clear institutional and planning instruments.

During Step 3, the Foundation invested in both Operational and Logistical Support and financed with 0.849€ million  in 38 National Networks, implementing 35 Common Operations during a period of one operational year. Special attention was given to the Networks that were recently created in the six new member countries of the Euro-Med Partnership.

The approval of the Network Strategy 2010-2011 and the holding of the first ALF Forum have given a new background to consolidate the Networks as agents for dialogue, diversity and mobilisation. As a major turning point for the Foundation, the Forum in Barcelona proved to be a new incentive for a dynamic Network that necessitates the active participation and mobilisation of the maximum possible number of Members.

Step 4 will continue providing the logistical and operational means for the Networks in order to keep up and improve their efficiency, while focusing on implementation of Network Strategy for 2010-2011.

In-line with 2010-2011 Network Strategy, Step 4 aims to support:

• the consolidation of accountability of HON Institutions;
• the constant delivery of services to Network Members;
• the organisation of Network coordination meetings and
• the development and implementation of common actions, focusing on the social and cultural diversity, which is specific to the Euro-Med countries, as well as on the follow-up of the ALF Forum 2010 and the dissemination of the ALF Report 2010 on Intercultural Trends.

The ultimate success of the NSDS will only be achieved if a Network accomplishes great levels of participation and mobilisation, and secure effective services to its Members. To this end, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will be applied after the signature of the Step 4 letters of agreement with the Heads of Network.

For more information on the NSDS and its activities taking place all over the Euro-Med Region, please see the Resources attached on the right column. For more information on the NSDS in each Euro-Med country, please visit the mini-website of each individual National Network.