Framework Programme 7 (FP7) and Horizon 2020
Funding is still available through FP7 and you can access all FP7 calls (open, closed, or forthcoming) by visiting the FP7 website.
Horizon 2020 will be the successor to FP7 and will combine all research and innovation funding currently provided through the Framework Programmes for Research and Technical Development, the innovation related activities of the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). Horizon 2020 will operate from 2014 to 2020 with the potential for a budget of around €70 billion.
Horizon 2020 sets out plans for a simpler programme which will focus on:
- Excellent Science - encompassing European Research Council (ERC), Future and Emerging Technologies (FET), Marie Curie Actions and Research Infrastructures.
- Competitive Industries - encompassing leadership in enabling and industrial technologies (ICT, Nanotechnologies, Advanced Materials, Biotechnology, Advanced Manufacturing and Processing, and Space); access to risk finance; and Innovation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs).
- Better Society - encompassing Health, demographic change and well-being; Food security, sustainable agriculture marine and maritime research; Bio-economy; Secure, clean and efficient energy; Smart, green and integrated transport; Climate action and resource efficiency including raw materials.
The European Council and the European Parliament are currently discussing the Horizon 2020 proposal. A final decision on the content of Horizon 2020 will be made by the end of 2013 and the launch of the first call in respect of Horizon 2020 is expected on the 1 January 2014.
How can I apply for funding?
WEFO’s new Horizon 2020 Unit provides a “one stop shop” supplying advice and support to organisations looking for the most appropriate research and development funding available from the European Union.
The support includes the newly launched scheme SCoRE Cymru (Supporting Collaborative Research and innovation in Europe). The scheme provides funding support to stimulate Welsh organisations to participate in European collaborative research such as FP7 and Horizon 2020. This can include up to £1,000 for the travel costs incurred in building partnerships and attending relevant research and innovation events during 2013, as well as up to £10,000 to support bid writing costs.
For more information on Horizon 2020 or SCoRE Cymru please email WEFO's Horizon 2020 Unit or call 0845 010 3355.
Events
UKRO Annual Conference
This conference is currently fully subscribed. If you would like to be placed on the waiting list, please go to the UK Research Office website.
Irish Presidency
A number of events will be held in Ireland shortly around the Irish Presidency of the EU which comes to an end this month (June). The events are supported by the European Commission Directorate for Research and Innovation and are an opportunity to network with EU businesses, researchers and policy makers at a key time in the development of the 2014-2020 EU programmes, in particular the Horizon 2020 programme. Visit the FP7 Ireland website and click on 'Events' for more details.
The importance of partnership
Both Horizon 2020 and FP7 encourage the formation of bidding partnerships from businesses, universities and institutes involved in cutting edge research and innovation as well as individuals and public sector organisations.
Annual calls for proposals are invited by the European Commission under the different programme themes. Projects can be based on a number of different funding models, though collaborative projects are the most common. A project consortium must include a minimum of three independent organisations from three different Member States and/or Associated Countries.
Call update
Some of the latest calls include:
- Supporting public procurement of innovative solutions with a budget of €6,300,000.
- European design innovation platform with a budget of €2,850,000.
- Sustainable industry low carbon scheme with a budget of €2,850,000.
- Erasmus for young entrepreneurs with a budget of €4,650,000.
- Marie Curie International Fellowships.
Expected future calls:
- Clean Sky call expected to be published on 09/07/2013 for clean technologies for air transport, including smart fixed wing aircraft.
- Future Internet call expected to be published on 28/06/2013. This call looks for participants that can rapidly connect to existing communities of small and innovative ICT developers in order to use technologies from previous phases of the Future Internet Public Private Partnership.
See the European Commission’s CORDIS website for further details and more calls.