Knowledge lies at the heart of the European union's Lisbon strategy to become the "most dynamic competitive knowledge-based economy in the world". The 'knowledge triangle' - research, education and innovation - is a core factor in European efforts to meet the ambitious Lisbon goals. Numerous programmes, initiatives and support measures are carried out at EU level in support of knowledge.

The seventh framework programme (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; along with a new competitiveness and innovation framework programme (CIP), education and training programmes, and structural and cohesion funds for regional convergence and competitiveness. It is also a key pillar for the European research area (ERA).

The broad objectives of FP7 have been grouped into four categories: cooperation, ideas, people and capacities. For each type of objective, there is a specific programme corresponding to the main areas of EU research policy. All specific programmes work together to promote and encourage the creation of European poles of (scientific) excellence.

The non-nuclear research activities of the joint research centre (JRC) are grouped under a specific programme with individual budget allocation.

EU FP7 - Types of Projects

Large Scale Integrating Projects

• €6 - 40M Depending on call


• At least 3 entities from 3 different countries. Typically very large consortia (6-20 Partners) with at least 1 large enterprises
  
  
• Thematic - YES


• Major EU institutions collaborate to solve major problems. May contain a number of sub-projects. Led by major LE's and leading universities.
  
  

Small or Medium-Scale Focused Research

• € 3 - 6 M


• At least 3 entities from 3 different countries. Consortia size varies between 5 and 12 typically.


• Thematic - YES


• For companies with own R&D capability to develop solutions to short-term problems. Will involve end users and typically LE's and SME's.

Research for SME's

• € 0.5 - 1.5 M


• 3 SME participants from 3 different countries and 2 RTD performers. Typically 7 - 10 partners.
  
  
• Thematic - NO


• To allow R&D institutions to do research on behalf of SME's who would otherwise not have the resources. Can involve small numbers of LE's and will solve specific problems.
  
  

Research for SME Associations

• € 1 - 3 M


• 3 National (Different Nationality) or 1 European association, 2 RTD performers and 2 SME's typically 10 - 14 partners.
  
  
• Thematic - NO


• Similar to Research For SME's but aimed at solving a problem faced by a whole industry sector. Led by Trade Associations.

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The Eurostars Programme

A Eurostars project is a European research and development project. It can address any technological area, but must have a civilian purpose and be aimed at the development of a new product, process or service. A Eurostars project is collaborative, meaning it must involve at least two participants (legal entities) from two different Eurostars participating countries. In addition, the main participant must be a research-performing SME.

The role of the SME participants in the project should be significant. At least 50% of the project’s core activity should be carried out by SME’s. This percentage can, however, include minor contracting. The consortium should be well balanced, which means that no participant or country will be required to invest more than 75% of the total project costs.

A Eurostars project should be market-driven: it must have a maximum duration of three years, and within two years of project completion, the product of the research should be ready for launch onto the market. The exception to this rule applies to biomedical or medical projects, where clinical trials must be started within two years of project completion.

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For further information on available grants or to find out how Euram can assist your business please call +44 (0) 115 981 1335