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Research Creates Growth

Food, energy and health are core strengths for Danish research, and key areas for creating growth and jobs in Denmark. The Government will therefore dedicate more than one-half of its globalisation funds to these areas. There will also be a boost to fundamental research and basic university funding.

In 2011, about DKK 1.4 billion from the globalisation pool will be allocated. The Government is planning for more than DKK 800 million to go directly to research in areas that generate growth and also support important societal priorities.

– So we want to prioritise globalisation funds in three distinct areas where we have an international position of strength – food, health and energy research. There is a large potential for growth here, and at the same time it can contribute to meeting the challenges that we are facing in areas such as energy supply and health, says Science Minister Charlotte Sahl-Madsen.

Globalisation funds have previously been allocated to 10 or 11 independent strategic research areas. The increased focus is an element in the Government's growth agenda.

Increased knowledge transfer to the business sector

To utilise research in an optimal way it is important for new knowledge to reach enterprises as quickly as possible. As a consequence, DKK 158 million of the globalisation funds has been allocated to Approved Technological Service Institutes, industrial PhD programmes, innovation centres, etc. – all of which are existing innovation schemes greatly appreciated by the universities and business sector.

– The great majority of Danish enterprises are small or medium-sized and do not have resources for conducting their own research. If they are to compete successfully in a global context, we need to strengthen schemes that help, not least, small and medium-sized enterprises to benefit from new technology and knowledge, says Charlotte Sahl-Madsen.

Financial base of universities

The final key element in the Government's initiative is more money for financial backing of the universities – known as basic funds. Here, the Government has allocated DKK 100 million in 2011. Also introduced is a match fund of DKK 100 million a year to strengthen the incentive of the universities to attract external funds.

– More basic funds will give the universities a better framework for planning on a long-term basis and continuing many of the initiatives now in progress, for instance enhanced teaching standards, increased focus on entrepreneurship, and continued commitment to launching PhD programmes.

Finally, a minor portion of the funds for 2012 will be allocated. This is the case for DKK 363 million for basic funds and research, prompted by a wish to strengthen the universities' scope for planning.

Science Minister Charlotte Sahl-Madsen can be contacted via Communications Manager Anders Frandsen, phone +45 30 48 84 50.