For an easy-to-read introduction to FP7 in 21 languages, see the brochure, "FP7 - tomorrow's answers
start today", on Understanding the Seventh Framework Programme

CAPACITIES in FP7

Budget: €4 097 million (2007 - 2013)

Top facilities for top scientists

The Capacities programme aims to optimise the use and development of research infrastructures, while enhancing the innovative capacities of SMEs to benefit from research. The programme is designed to support regional research-driven clusters and at the same time unlock the research potential in the EU’s convergence and outermost regions. Support is to be provided for horizontal actions and measures underlining international cooperation. Finally, European society and science should be brought closer under the initiatives of the Capacities programme.

Capacities will operate in seven broad areas:

• Research infrastructures
• Research for the benefit of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Regions of knowledge
• Research potential
• Science in society
• Support for the coherent development of research policies
• Activities of international co-operation