MODELS FOR PREDICTING THE USAGE OF IPARD PROGRAM FUNDS IN THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA.

The research aimed at developing models for predicting more efficient usage of financial means and measures provided by the IPARD program for the agriculture and rural area development in the Republic of Croatia. The research involved a total of 507 agricultural family farms. The Chi-square test (χ²) was used for analysis of original data presented in frequencies. The data obtained by questionnaires were analyzed and used for creation of prediction models which referred to examinees' education level and average monthly income, as both determinants were identified as significant factors for more efficient usage of IPARD program funds. There were two prediction models developed by means of deliberate changes of frequencies in contingency tables. By changing of existing frequencies of examinees referring to their average monthly income and education level, the authors created two prediction models which can serve as a starting point for preparation of measures that will facilitate more efficient usage of IPRAD program funds by increasing motivation of potential participants to apply to program calls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]