- Personal research
- Information from UK government sources
- Specialist EU-funding consultants
- Personal networking
- Information from regional sources
Personal Research: The central source of information on all European funding for research and technological development is the CORDIS Framework Programme website. This complex site contains downloadable information on every conceivable aspect of European funding in multiple languages. Most of the documents are published as PDF (Portable Document Format) files that can be viewed using Adobe Reader, downloadable free from Adobe's website. Be warned that some documents are hundreds of pages long. The website also contains calls for experts to register their availability to sit on panels reviewing proposals. This may offer an interesting opportunity to gain first-hand experience of the European funding process for individuals who have the time to become involved.
Our View: An extremely useful site, but due to its complexity, probably of most use to an established user seeking the latest information on a known topic. Back to top
Information from UK government sources: The DTI signposts and interprets areas of specific interest to UK businesses on its website. The website contains many links to specific areas of interest on the CORDIS site, but in addition links to other UK sources of information. The website also includes the full contact details of DTI employees who may be able to help with specific enquiries. Regional advice is also available through the Innovation Relay Centres. Online contact details for the seven IRCs in the UK are available via a clickable map or directory (pdf 319 kbytes).
FP7 UK
FP7 UK is the UK Government's independent information and advice service, established to help you achieve success in the latest European Framework Research and Development Programme. FP7UK is the prime source of information for UK organisations on the EU's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7). Many UK participants were successful in the previous programme and, with revised rules and funding rates, there are great new opportunities for UK organisations in FP7. We look forward to helping you become a winner. The current Framework Programme, FP7, will run from 2007-2013 with a budget of €50.5bn.
In the FP7UK site you can find information about calls for funding applications, events, press releases, success stories and news that could help with your application. There is also a helpline to provide general advice or signpost you to more specific sources of assistance, contact us on 0870 600 6080 or email help@fp7uk.co.uk The site provides contact details for each of the National Contact Points (NCPs) in the different thematic areas. If you are interested in receiving regular updates on FP7 news, calls and events, you can register your details here.
Our View: A useful website specifically targeted to help UK applicants. The website provides many links to other sites with relevant information and also a telephone helpline. Back to top
Specialist EU-funding consultants: Specialist help and training can be obtained from many independent and government-supported consultants. It is not possible in a brief article such as this to comment fairly on the effectiveness of any consulting or training organisation. Small business might try Business Link or the Small Business Service as a starting point for links to individuals who might be able to recommend consultants. By way of example, Beta Technology is an established technology consultancy. Its website offers useful guidance and signposts to other sources of information on European funding. Research-and-technology organisations (RTOs) such as Pera may also offer opportunities for established companies to become part of consortiua bidding for European funding.
Our View: Extremely useful websites if you are seeking general information on funding opportunities available. Back to top
Personal networking: University and business events may provide many opportunities for meeting with other individuals with similar interests. In addition to this website, other websites with excellent information about potentially relevant events include those of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. (Access to these organisations' events lists is not limited to members).
Our View: Personal networking should not be underestimated as a technique for finding out about opportunities for European Funding. Back to top
Information from regional sources: The English regional development agencies (RDAs) are worth approaching for help in engaging with EU activities within their respective regions. In some cases, provision includes subsidised assistance with preparation of R&D proposals or similar.
Our View: The RDAs are an important link in the overall funding process. Mechanisms and opportunities vary from region to region, but your local RDA's website may provide links to relevant information otherwise only to be found deep within other EU websites. Back to top