This work has been carried out within a research project developed by the University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Department of Economics , undertaking the “Ex-ante evaluation for financial instruments in the fishery sector”, funded by the Italian Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies. In addition, this issue was deepened with by the experience of an internship abroad for the author, at Lexxion publisher, focusing in particular on the aspect of the implementation of ESI funds in the European Union. Both experiences increased the interest of the author on financial instruments, which in her view are one of the most promising channels for increasing the effectiveness of European funds.