Supporting CAP evaluation: introducing the National CAP Network’s evaluation learning portal
National Networks can engage in CAP Strategic Plans monitoring and evaluation processes, particularly in facilitating stakeholder engagement and supporting data flows.
Effective monitoring and evaluation of the CAP are essential for understanding how CAP Strategic Plans (CSPs) deliver results and contribute to policy objectives. While Managing Authorities are primarily responsible for these processes, National CAP Networks (NNs) play an important supporting role, helping to connect stakeholders, facilitate learning, and promote the practical use of evaluation findings.
To strengthen this role, the EU CAP Network’s European Evaluation Helpdesk for the CAP has developed a dedicated learning portal on the contribution of NNs to monitoring, evaluation and capacity building.
The portal builds on inputs gathered through network meetings, and its development was initiated following a NN hackathon.
The aim of the learning portal is to clarify the scope of CSP monitoring and evaluation and the roles of key actors, to illustrate how NNs can contribute to these processes without replacing formal responsibilities, and to present practical tools and examples from Member States. In doing so, it supports a shared understanding of the added value of NNs, particularly in facilitating stakeholder engagement, supporting data flows, and improving the accessibility and use of evaluation findings.
For example, in Poland, the NN participates in a CSP evaluation working group that supports the Monitoring Committee, thereby strengthening the link between evaluation and governance. In Ireland, the Network contributes to the work of the Monitoring Committee through visual materials that support the interpretation of CSP progress.
In data collection, NNs can act as intermediaries between different sources of information. For instance, in Denmark, the NN coordinates standardised reporting from Local Action Groups (LAGs), while in Croatia, the NN organise online surveys to collect feedback on the implementation of investment interventions. In Hungary, the NN both facilitates peer learning on digital tools for monitoring and reporting and supports primary data collection for evaluations, for example, through interviews and focus groups.
The portal's practical orientation is also evident in other examples. In Spain, the NN organise events that connect science and policy to support evidence-based evaluation, while in Finland, informal 'evaluation coffee' sessions are used to encourage discussion and uptake of evaluation findings.
The portal gives a particular emphasis on capacity building, including support for LAGs. For instance, in Lithuania, the NN organise training on identifying and demonstrating the added value of LEADER; in Estonia, training is provided on LAG self-assessment; and in Poland, workshops are organised on the evaluation of local development strategies. Such activities strengthen the capacity of local actors not only to report, but also to analyse and use evidence.
At the same time, the portal offers explanations of key monitoring and evaluation concepts and processes, helping different stakeholders to better understand how monitoring and evaluation complement each other and how their results can be used in practice. In this way, the portal contributes to strengthening a shared understanding of evaluation among both specialists and non-specialists.
By improving access to knowledge and practical experience, the learning portal supports more informed dialogue, better use of evidence, and ultimately more effective CAP Strategic Plans implementation.
Explore the portal 'National CAP Networks contributing to monitoring and evaluation capacity and activities'