The Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (FP7) provides an effective way of enhancing the commercial success of your business. Being part of an FP7 funding project can help your organisation to:

• Gain from being a partner in a project that, if successful, will deliver a significantly innovative product or service.
• Engage with leading players and industry networks within your field in the project consortium.
• Nurture business relationships and encourage pan-European networking.
• Access leading-edge technology and share expertise.

FP7 plays a crucial role in reaching the goals of growth, competitiveness and employment and your business may be eligible to receive up to 75 percent reimbursement of research and development costs. The programme runs for seven years from 2007 until 2013 with a total budget of over € 50 billion. There are opportunities for companies of all sizes, as project leader or partner, to share your expertise and, in return, gain access to new technologies.

All projects are collaborative, encouraging European organisations to share their resources and expertise to make technological advances, with a time to market of five or more years. The technical aspects of the projects demand that innovation is significantly in advance of state of the art - the products and services of tomorrow. Ultimately, the EU defines the nature and scope of the projects FP7 will support.

For more information visit the EU's CORDIS website