EU Framework Programme on R&D

The EU has streamlined its R&D programmes into five-year Framework Programmes. Currently, the 6th Framework Programme (FP6) is running till 2006. Gradually, the budget allocated to SMEs in these programmes has increased from 5 % of the 4th Framework Programme to 13 % in the present one.

In FP6 a total of 2.1 billion euro is allocated to SMEs, of which 430 million euro of SME specific programmes (Craft or co-operative research; collective research; Economic and Technical Intelligence). Most of the budget, being 1.7 billion is allocated to SMEs to take part in the large Thematic Programme Activities.

Discussion on FP7, the successor to FP6, is now well underway. In these discussions UEAPME is in favour of significantly increasing the budget for SME specific programmes, without prejudice to the guaranteed threshold for SME participation in the Thematic Programmes. UEAPME is also in favour of reducing bureaucracy regarding the management, administration and control of projects.

Position Papers

• January 2005: UEAPME Position Paper on the successor to FP6
  
  
• May 2001: UEAPME Position Paper: RTD Committee "New RTD Framework Programme 2002-2006 [COM(2001)094]"

Press releases

• 02/10/07: R&D and SMEs: “Eurostars” programme could aim even higher
  
  
• 05/07/06: SMEs in FP7: Parliament moves from rhetoric to actions
  
  
• 29/11/05: Council decision on FP7 will help improve SMEs' R&D participation
  
  
• 03/06/05: Minimum budget for SMEs in FP7 must be maintained
  
  
• 07/04/05: FP7 budget must not scrap minimum allocation for SMEs
  
  
• 04/04/05: FP7 must focus on smaller SME programmes for R&D targets to be met