Framework Seven Programme (FP7)
Utilising collaboration to boost European innovation and competitiveness
Funding available: Up to 50% of the cost of the R&D undertaking, drawing on a total budget of ?50,521 billion, with a yearly average of ?7 billion. The separate Euratom project and non-nuclear research activities of the Joint Research Centre (JRC), have separate budget allocations. Additionally, there are opportunities to be part of a pan-European consortia sharing knowledge, skills and expertise, gain access to new business markets and become involved in ambitious, leading-edge projects.
Who is it for? Any innovative business, but particularly SMEs, looking for the opportunity to collaboratively develop new products and relationships with business partners across mainland Europe.
What is it for? FP7 is the EU's main instrument for funding collaborative innovation research in Europe in selected four priority areas: co-operation; ideas; people; and capacities. The overriding aim is to make, or keep, the EU as a world leader in those sectors, and to respond to Europe's employment needs and competitiveness. There are a range of funding schemes available able to address the needs of both large and small projects.
Eligibility criteria: These are detailed criteria for each area. In addition, businesses need to consider areas including:-
- Business Rationale - does the activityfit within your business strategy, can you commit the resource and management time to the project which could potentially last 2-5 years, and potentially invest yourself?
- The project - does it benefit from the involvement of a number of complimentary European partners and is it European focused, aimed at making an impact and providing a major step forward?
- Working in Europe - are there benefits in collaborating with other European organisations and do you have the skills, expertise and experience need to work as part of a consortium?
About the provider: FP7 bundles all research-related EU initiatives together under a common roof playing a crucial role in reaching the goals of growth, competitiveness and employment.
Application process: The application is not for the faint-hearted!
More information:
For detailed information on the programmes, application process and entry criteria, visit:
UK site - http://www.fp7uk.org, or contact: help@fp7uk.co.uk
European site - http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/home_en.html
The Enterprise Europe Network offers support and advice to businesses across Europe to help them make the most of opportunities within the European Union. For more information visit: www.businesslink.gov.uk/east/europe
The network of National Contact Points is the main structure to provide guidance, practical information and assistance on all aspects of participation and assistance on all aspects of participation in Framework Seven Programme. For more detail visit: http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/get-support_en.html