Commission approves €10 million Lithuanian scheme to support cultural and art institutions and organisations in the context of #Coronavirus outbreak

The European Commission approved a Lithuanian scheme, with an estimated budget of €10 million, to support of cultural and art institutions and organizations in the context of the coronavirus outbreak. The scheme was approved under the state aid Temporary Framework adopted by the Commission on 19 March 2020, as amended on 3 April 2020 and 8 May 2020. The measure, which will take the form of direct grants, is intended to support the creation of new products and/or services by cultural and art institutions and organisations in the period between 19 March and 31 December 2020.

The objective of the scheme is to help ensure the continuation of activities of these organisations during and after the outbreak. It also aims at promoting the creation of digital cultural products and services, in view of the physical restrictions and other adjustments introduced by the Lithuanian government to limit the spread of the coronavirus. The Commission concluded that the measure is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a member state, in line with Article 107(3)(b) TFEU and the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework.

On this basis, the Commission approved the measures under EU state aid rules. More information on the Temporary Framework and other actions taken by the Commission to address the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic can be found here. The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case number SA.57342 in the state aid register on the Commission's competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved.

Share this article: