The Tacis Programme is a European Union initiative for the New Independent States and Mongolia which fosters the development of harmonious and prosperous economic and political links between the European Union and these partner countries. Its aim is to support the partner countries' initiatives to develop societies based on political freedoms and economic prosperity.Tacis does this by providing grant finance for know-how to support the process of transformation to market economies and democratic societies. This know-how is delivered by providing policy advice, consultancy teams, studies and training, by developing and reforming legal and regulatory frameworks, institutions and organizations, and by setting up partnerships, networks, twinnings and pilot projects. Tacis is also a catalyst, unlocking funds from major lenders by providing pre-investment and feasibility studies.