The European Union supports thousands of projects across Europe every year in the most varied sectors and with very different objectives. From public transport improvement to small business support, these projects really make a difference in citizen's daily life. In order to highlight this support, the European Commission invites all citizens to share photos portraying projects near them and take part in the Europe in my region photo competition.

Either those working for an organisation receiving EU regional funding or as a member of the public are invited to join Facebook and submit their pictures to the Europe in my region photo competition. To enter the competition those willing to take part only need to take a photo of a project receiving regional funding including the plaque or billboard with funding information and the EU flag somewhere in the picture, and submit the photo before August 31st 2012.

The photographs presented to the contest must portray projects receiving support from the European regional development fund (ERDF) or from cohesion funds. Participants may find projects close to their home region by consulting the regional development projects database and searching those of their choice.

Citizens will not only be able to submit their photos but also to vote for the winners. A public on-line voting on the best photos will run between August 27th and September 7th in order to select one winners in each category, i.e. organisations receiving EU regional funding and members of the public. Then a jury will pick the another winner in each category according to their aesthetics, creativity and relevance to EU regional policy.

Each winner will receive €1000 to spend on digital camera equipment and a trip for two to Brussels during the European Week of Regions and Cities Open Days running between October 8th and 11th.