The European Commission's Proposal for Horizon 2020

The next framework programme for research and innovation (Horizon 2020) plans to bring together the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) starting in 2014.

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The European Commission's proposal includes:

• A communication from the commission regarding the general cornerstones of the future framework programme for research and innovation
• A proposal for the establishment of Horizon 2020
• A proposal for the rules of participation and dissemination
• A proposal for the establishment of the Specific Programme Implementing Horizon 2020, with details of the individual funding measures and research topics
• A separate proposal for a council regulation on the Research and Training Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community compelementing 

The total budget of the programme is 87 billion euros (in current prices) for the period of 2014 - 2020.

Horizon 2020 will combine all research and innovation funding currently provided through the Framework Programmes for Research and Technical Development, the innovation related activities of the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP), and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT).

The new framework programme covers three key objectives:

1. Excellent Science - supporting our excellent science base by providing training and career development opportunities, developing future and emerging technologies (FET), and improving EU research infrastructures.
2. Competitive Industries - building industrial leadership in Europe by boosting job creation, supporting innovation, increasing market uptake, stimulating private investment in R&I, and strengthening participation of innovative SMEs.
3. Better Society - tackling societal challenges on a European and global scale for a better, healthier society through research in areas such as health, food security, clean and efficient energy, green transport, climate protection, and resource conservation.

To watch a presentation on Horizon 2020, and for more details about the future framework programme, click here.

Following the submission of the EU Commission's proposal for Horizon 2020, the legislative procedures (previously "co-decision procedures") are set to begin. This will involve the discussion and adoption of Horizon 2020 by the Council and the European Parliament (EP). The Specific Programme is to be adopted by the Council following an official hearing with the EP (consultation procedures).

The legislative phase will take about a year and a half, meaning we can expect the adoption of the next framework programme for research and innovation by the end of 2013.

Funding opportunities made available by Horizon 2020 are expected to be associated with those of the current Seventh Framework Programme (2007-2013).