Next steps

In order to guarantee a quick start, existing instruments have been used. The Commission has therefore launched cross-thematic calls for research proposals from the FP7 thematic areas "Nanotechnologies, Materials and Production Technologies', and ICT in July 2009 and July 2010, calls based on the multi-annual roadmap and longer term strategy which has been finalised in 2010 by the Ad-hoc Industrial Advisory Group. The next cross-thematic calls are expected to be launched in July 2011.

Member States have also expressed a desire to work more closely together to support research into eco-innovation for the manufacturing sector. Within the ERANET Manunet Member States' align their research strategies and their own research funds and issue joint calls for proposals.