FP7 EUROPEAN RESEARCH PROGRAMMES

The Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) refers to the next programme in a series of multi-annual Framework Programmes that have been the European Union's main instrument for funding research and development since 1984.

Programmes have so far been conceived for a period of five years. FP7, however, is proposed for the period 2007-2013, and will be the successor to the current FP6, which runs until the end of 2006.

Ireland's researchers have drawn down almost € 200 million from the sixth EU Framework Programme (FP6 2002-2006)

Higher Education researchers are the primary beneficiaries accounting for 70% of funding. Private industry accounts for 20%, with two thirds associated with SMEs and one third with MNCs.

Thematic Priorities

Four Thematic Priorities with Human Resources and Mobility account for 72% of the funding. The Thematic Priorities are: 1. Life Sciences, Genomics & Biotechnology for Health
2. Information Society Technologies
3. Nanotechnologies, Nanosciences, Materials & Production Technologies
4. Food Quality & Safety

Budget

The Seventh EU Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (FP7 2007-2013) will have a budget of over €50 billion - substantially larger than the FP6 budget.

Greater Potential for Participation by Ireland's Researchers FP7 covers four Specific Research Programmes:
1. Cooperation (€32.202 billion)
2. Ideas (€7.460 billion)
3. People (€4.577 billion)
4. Capacities (€4.193 billion)

75% of the activities are a continuation of FP6. 25% of the FP7 activities are new - these include the Ideas (European Research Council) Programme that is closer to the Science Foundation Ireland model than to the other parts of FP7.

Ireland's researchers have already demonstrated their ability to achieve research excellence. An enhanced national support structure has been put in place for FP7, headed by a National Director and supported by a core unit and dedicated teams. The first FP7 Calls for Proposals are expected in late 2006/early 2007.

National Delegates & National Contact Points

National Delegates (ND) represent Ireland on the relevant EU programme committees and identify strategic opportunities for Irish involvement in the programme.

National Contact Points (NCP) provide 'hands on support' for all potential participants in their part of the programme

Imelda Lambkin,
National Director for FP7 and NCP Coordinator,
Enterprise Ireland
Tel: + 353 1 808 2665

Martha Cahill,
Legal & Financial National Contact Point,
Enterprise Ireland
Tel: + 353 1 808 2748

Keep up to date with FP7 on Enterprise Ireland's FP7 Webpages >>