Enterprise Ireland
Annual Report and Accounts 2006
Annual Report and Accounts 2006
Enterprise Ireland is coordinating the national response to the €50 billion EU research programme launched in November 2006.
The Seventh EU Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (FP7) offers Irish researchers a golden opportunity to tap into European research networks and funding.
The €50 billion programme will run until 2013. Of larger scale and scope than any of its predecessors, it encompasses collaborative research potential in the key areas of ICT, healthcare, agri-food, energy, environment, space, security and nanotechnology.
A primary objective of FP7 is to make the programme more attuned to the needs of industry, particularly small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs), and a target of 15 per cent has been set for small firm participation in collaborative research.
Enterprise Ireland has been mandated to lead Ireland's participation in FP7 as part of the National Support Network. Dr Imelda Lambkin is the National Director and she leads a group of 33 national contact points and national delegates from ten Irish organisations. The Network offers assistance to potential participants in FP7 including financial supports. It also simplifies the application procedure for SMEs and encourages participation by small businesses.
Dr Lambkin is spearheading efforts to ensure that all researchers and companies know about the opportunities available through the programme. Her office is also sending a motivating message to stakeholders in industry, academia, the healthcare sector, publicly funded organisations and elsewhere.
She said:
"Traditionally researchers in higher education institutions have been the most active in applying for Framework funding. One of our key objectives is to convey the message that FP7 funding is highly relevant for researchers in industry and elsewhere and that it can be used to complement the existing R&D and innovation strategies of SMEs, multinational corporations and other bodies.
We are issuing a call to action for Ireland's R&D community. Under FP7, we have established a network of national contact points to ensure that the best possible structures are in place to support those who wish to access the opportunities. The message is clear - the funding is available for the appropriate projects. We will be doing everything possible to ensure that researchers are aware of the opportunities."
Irish researchers drew down over €200 million from the previous framework programme, FP6.
www.FP7-ireland.com (link opens in a new browser window)
