The Framework Programme for Research, Technological Development and Demonstration is the main research policy instrument of the European Union.
The Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) defines the European Union's strategic research priorities for the period of 2007-2013. FP7 comprises four broad policy fields ‘Cooperation’ (collaborative research projects), ‘Ideas’ (basic research), ‘People’ (education and academic exchange schemes) and ‘Capacities’ (research infrastructures, SME and regional schemes). The most significant part ‘Cooperation’ is composed of 9 Thematic Priorities which among others include materials & production (NMP), information technologies (ICT) and environmental research (Environment) which are all of relevance to the textile research community. A total budget of 50.5 billion Euros has been allocated to implement the 7th Framework Programme.

In addition to the Research Framework Programme, the European Commission offers a wide range of other programmes and initiatives, which provide funding in areas related to research, like innovation & entrepreneurship, education & training, standardisation, environmental technologies etc.

A list of such programmes and initiatives, including direct links, can be found here.

FP7: http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/home_en.html
Budget: http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/budget_en.html

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