On December 18, Amiens Métropole signed its new City contract 2024-2030in partnership with the State, the Region, the Department and the City of Amiens. This social system marks an important turning point in the way of supporting associative actions in priority neighborhoods, by modifying the approach adopted until now. One of the main innovations lies in the territorial approach, which replaces the thematic approach used in previous contracts (sport, culture, etc.).
A social approach adapted to local needs
The objective of the 2024-2030 City Contract is to better respond to the needs and expectations of residents. This new method is based on objectives defined based on feedback from residents collected during consultations, thus allowing a more personalized approach. The City Contract aims to strengthen social cohesion and fight against inequalities in so-called priority neighborhoodsidentified within the framework of the City’s policy. This system is now based on a logic of territorial challenges, spread over eleven major axes, and no longer solely on classic themes:
- Fight against precariousness
- Removing barriers to integration
- Facilitate access to the law
- Promoting the success of young people
- Supporting parenthood
- Take better care of your health
- Develop social connections
- Uplift
- Promote tranquility in public spaces
- Enhance the image of neighborhoods
- Contribute to their openness and the mobility of residents
A new priority district
Another major novelty of this contract is the integration of the Elbeuf-Lescouvé district into the system. This district thus joins the other sectors of the city benefiting from the City's policy. Although the number of inhabitants of the metropolis has remained stable, in particular due to the deconstruction of certain large complexes, the emphasis is placed on strengthening associative action in this district. It will benefit from particular attention, in particular thanks to the involvement of its social center and the numerous initiatives already in place.
More flexible management of associative projects
The 2024-2030 City Contract also provides for greater administrative flexibility. Associations will now have the opportunity to submit their projects throughout the year, which will allow better preparation of files. The first phase of project submission has begun and will continue until the end of January 2024, with a deliberation planned for the spring. In addition to this first wave, two more filing waves are planned for summer and fall 2025thus offering more time to associations to rework their proposals in the event of initial refusal.
Another important development is the introduction of qualitative assessments in addition to traditional quantitative assessments. This new approach will make it possible to more precisely assess the impact of projects on the territories concerned and to adjust funding according to the results obtained.
A budget of 1.4 million euros for 2024
For the year 2024, Amiens Métropole has planned a budget of 1.4 million euros to support associative actions in priority neighborhoods. This funding will make it possible to support 82 structures and 163 actions in the territory. The extension of the City Contract to Elbeuf-Lescouvé does not result in a major increase in the budget, as the population of the district has not changed significantly. However, this new phase should strengthen associative action and enrich the initiatives already existing in this district.
Interested associations can now submit their projects via the website amiens.fr/2025AAP. The first submission session will end at the end of January, with a decision expected in spring 2024.
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