Single entry online information service for all 22 thematic areas covered by the EU's research and technological development funding for collaborative research and innovation
The new FP6UK website is up and running giving simple and easy access to help and advice for UK organisations interested in taking advantage of European Union Framework Programme Six (FP6) funding for research and technological development projects.
The site replaces a range of UK government-supported websites offering help and information in connection with the EU's Framework Programme.
FP6UK puts the needs of UK organisations first.
In the past, unless they knew exactly which area of the EU's Framework Programme was relevant to them, finding the right information and help was complex.
For the first time, the new service offers a single entry one-stop, on line information service for all 22 thematic areas covered by the EU's research and technological development funding for collaborative research and innovation.
The FP6UK website now gives direct, quick and efficient access to the whole raft of support services offered by the UK government on the EU Framework Programme at the click of a mouse.
With simple navigation, the new website pulls together a wide range of information that was previously scattered over numerous smaller, and sometimes unrelated sites. The new website provides clear and effective guidance for users on how to access the answers they need to help them decide if and how they may qualify for funding.
FP6, the current Framework Programme, runs to the end of 2006 and has an overall budget of €17.5 billion.
The new service will make it much easier for UK organisations to find out about the opportunities offered by FP6. FP6 aims to strengthen European research and technological development capability and encourage Europe's international competitiveness.
The new website has been developed in recognition of the vital importance of this type of research if UK business and industry is to remain competitive on the world stage.
Other information available through the website and associated links includes news; case studies highlighting how current and previous Framework funding has helped other UK organisations; answers to frequently asked questions; guidance in the application process; and a basic library of relevant EU and UK documents; a signposting section indicating where and how to access potential project partners; and a wide range of expert advice provided by national contact points (NCPs).
Visitors to the site are also able to register their interest in FP6 so that they can be alerted to events and calls for funding applications and kept informed on general FP6 issues.
