transport infrastructure, in particular interconnection and interoperability between national networks, and between national and trans-European networks;

environment measures related to waste management, water supply, urban waste water and air quality; rehabilitation of contaminated sites and land; areas related to sustainable development which present environmental benefits, namely energy efficiency and renewable energy;

operations which enhance regional competitiveness and a productive environment, and encourage creation and safeguarding of sustainable employment, involving in particular:

1. (i)

   provision of business and technology services for enterprises, particularly in the fields of management, market research and development and networking;

2. (ii)

   access and use of information and communication technologies;

3. (iii)

   promotion of technological development, research and innovation including through cooperation with tertiary education and research institutions and research and technology centres;

4. (iv)

   development of business networks and clusters;

5. (v)

   creation and development of financing instruments which facilitate access to revolving financing through venture capital, loan and guarantee funds;

6. (vi)

   provision of local infrastructure and services which contribute to facilitate establishment, development and expansion of new and existing business;

7. (vii)

   education and training infrastructures, where necessary for regional development and in close coordination with the human resources development component.