€6.4 billion in funding for smart growth and jobs

QWThe European Commission has published a number of calls for proposals in various themes of the Seventh Framework Programme totalling almost €6.4 billion, an increase of 12 per cent and 30 per cent on 2010 and 2009 respectively.

The announcement was made by Research Commissioner Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, who indicated that this package covers a vast range of scientific disciplines, public policy areas and commercial sectors.

The aim behind this funding is, among others, to increase European competitiveness and to help solve societal challenges such as climate change. Around 16,000 participants are expected to benefit from this funding. The Seventh Framework Programme is the largest single research Programme in the world, with a budget of more than €50.5 billion for 2007-2013.

Grants will be awarded through “calls for proposals” and their evaluation will take place over a 14-month period; many calls were formally published this week. Top priority will be given to small and medium-sized enterprises, which are the backbone of the European innovation system and represent 99 per cent of all European businesses. SMEs will receive close to €800 million and for the first time, there will be ring-fenced budgets in several areas.

This package is an economic stimulus and a long-term investment for a smarter, sustainable and more inclusive Europe. This is a key element within the EU’s Europe 2020 Strategy, specifically the Innovation Union Flagship, which will be launched in autumn.

The network of National Contact Points is the main structure to provide guidance, practical information and assistance on all aspects of participation in FP7.

The Malta Council for Science & Technology is the national contact point organisation for FP7 and provides personalised support and advice. For information contact Anthea Fabri at MCST at anthea.fabri@gov.mt.