Denmark brings more than DKK 1 billion home from EU projects
Danish research and innovation received a boost in the past year, which can help solve some of the greatest societal challenges and create growth in Denmark and Europe.
In the first year of the Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, Danish companies, researchers and public authorities received more than DKK 1.1 billion for almost 300 research and innovation projects. This corresponds to 2.3 per cent of the total budget.
The Danish government has an objective of securing 2.5 per cent of funding from the overall programme period 2014-2020. Initiatives to help achieve this objective are already being implemented, such as allocating DKK 30 million in 2015 to secure EU funding, particularly in relation to the Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs).
Minister for Higher Education and Science Sofie Carsten Nielsen wants to ensure that part of these funds are targeted at network activities that benefit companies and knowledge institutions.
Strong networks are key to accessing Horizon 2020 funding and increased network activities in selected areas create a better foundation for applying for Horizon 2020 funding. Furthermore, funding will also be available for preparing applications to and participating in KICs.
- The EU contributes significantly to Danish research and innovation. The government has an ambitious target for securing funds, and we must do even better if we are to achieve the goal of 2.5 per cent. I would therefore encourage companies and knowledge institutions to investigate their options thoroughly, and send more, and better, applications. A new initiative this year will set aside funding for network activities that will give Danish applicants a better foundation for developing a Horizon 2020 project, says Sofie Carsten Nielsen.
Horizon 2020 focuses more on innovation than the preceding EU 7th framework programme. And Danish applicants should therefore also focus on innovation in their application.
One of the successful Danish applicants is Ærø Municipality, which together with other Danish partners, received more than DKK 80 million to build a new electric ferry to Ærø. This project focuses on innovation and aligns well with the new focus of Horizon 2020.
- The electric ferry to Ærø Municipality is a good example of what is needed to secure more funding from Horizon 2020. There must be increased focus on innovation, and more companies and end users should be involved in the project. I am certain that Danish stakeholders can be inspired by this project, says Sofie Carsten Nielsen.
Horizon 2020
- Horizon 2020 is the EU's new framework programme for research and innovation.
- The programme runs from 2014 to 2020 and has a budget of DKK 592 billion. It provides financial support to researchers, companies, entrepreneurs, organisations and regions.
For further information, please contact:
Head of division Katrine Nissen, Danish Agency for Science, Technology and Innovation, tel: 7231 8240, e-mail: katn@fi.dk
Head of press Ingeborg Marie Ellern Nielsen, tel. 22110200, e-mail: imen@ufm.dk