The purpose of the identification stage is to:

• identify project ideas that are consistent with partner and EC development priorities;
• assess the relevance and likely feasibility of these project ideas;
• under the ‘programme approach’, prepare a financing proposal (i.e. under the MEDA or TACIS regulations), or an identification fiche for individual projects (i.e. under ACP and ALA funding arrangements); and
• prepare a financing decision for a programme of projects or determine the scope of further work required during the formulation stage for individual projects.

Following the devolution reform, the delegations now have a direct responsibility for identification work, with methodological support and quality control exercised by the HQ.

Project ideas may come from a variety of sources, most importantly from prospective implementing partners (either partner governments, non-state actors or multilateral or regional development agencies). Local ownership of, and commitment to, potential projects is a key quality assessment criterion. Furthermore, project ideas should be drawn from the priorities and targets identified in the relevant country strategy paper and national indicative programme.