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[July 2002]
A Regional Perspective on European Research : The EU's 6th Framework for Research and Technological Development
Now is the time to start thinking about FP6. We would like you and some of your clients to attend this event.
This regional Conference, designed by the West Midlands in Europe Office, sponsored by Advantage West Midlands and the European and International Policy Forum and organised by the EPI Centre has been developed to provide business support agencies, economic development partners and businesses who are new to the European Union's R&D framework with a comprehensive introduction to the opportunities and the process. Aston, Staffordshire, Birmingham and Wolverhampton University and Stourbridge College contributed to the design of this event.The first of its kind for the West Midlands region, it is an opportunity to understand the big picture, find out about the regional, national and EU support mechanisms and network with key people.
West Midlands participation in previous frameworks has been disappointing. However, the creation of Advantage West Midlands, the expansion of the West Midlands in Europe partnership and the creation of the EPI Centre (European Programmes Integration Centre) at Coventry University means we now have a unique regional partnership which can support local people who are interested in participating in the programme. Working together, AWM, WMiE and EPIC have developed this concise and informative event to help those who are new to framework programmes and transnational working.
This is just the beginning of a regional drive to increase activity and participation in the framework. It provides regional partners with the chance to start the discussion about ways of creating more, and more effective partnerships. It will provide a forum for regional partners, managers, researchers, higher and further education, local government, other public sector and businesses to discus the future of regional activity.
With a budget of £10 billion to be expended over four years (2002-2006), the 6th framework offers significant opportunities to public organisations and businesses alike.
THE PROJECT SHOWCASE
A networking exhibition (featuring previous economic development partners and companies' projects). The EPI Centre and the Innovation Relay Centre will also have exhibition stands. All stands will be manned by individuals with direct previous experience of previous EU Framework Programmes willing to talk to you informally about what they have learned. You can meet people who can offer you practical advice, material and training and have direct past experience of participating in framework projects and learn from companies and public organisations. Meet sector and thematic experts from the European Commission. You will pick up the basics of working with the European Commission and understand the pro's and con's of working with research providers and other partners.
SUPPORT AGENCIES
The conference offers a comprehensive view of the support on offer to you and your clients including up to date information, free literature and practical handouts which will save you (or them) time and money. It will help you understand the range of free information and support and you will find out how to obtain sample proposals written by experts that have a real value. You learn about the West Midlands in Europe office in Brussels, how it fits in and how they can help - including their access to influential people in the Commission. You can meet staff from the EPI Centre which is a unique resource. EPIC staff will be on hand to help you make connections with the information or people that you need. The Office of Science and Technology will be providing insights into government policy and government support for those wishing to participate in the new Framework Programme.
FP6 STARTER KIT
We will be providing all those who attend with a starter kit to enable them to find their way through the framework labyrinth.
REGISTER NOW
We expect demand for this free event to be high. We therefore suggest that if you wish to attend you should REGISTER NOW. You can do so simply by ringing Nicole Lewis on 02476236813 or by email on n.lewis@coventry.ac.uk. We will be issuing formal invitations in the next couple of weeks. We will be in touch to ask you to indicate your interest in the various parrallel sessions.
VENUE:
National Exhibition Centre, BirminghamDATE:
Wednesday 18 September 2002TIMINGS AND SHAPE:
All day conference - 1000 to 1600 hours. Networking Lunch 1230 - 1400.Parallel sessions, panel speakers and presentations.
SPEAKERS:
Graham Stroud - Assistant to the Director General DG Research, EU Commission, Office of Science and Technology, Paul Drath - Single Image Ltd, John Cornbill - Director EPI Centre, Rachel Fletcher - Manager Beta Technology.
Xabier Goenaga, Luisa Prista, Barend Verachtert and Rosalie Zorbel - DG Research
SME and economic development case studiesAGENDA:
Regional Perspective . Overview of FP6. Funding Opportunities. How to present an application. Who can help - support agencies. Finding partners. Thematic Areas. Case Studies of SME's and Research Organisations. Exploiting ResultsCONTACT DETAILS:
If you would like to pre- register for this FREE event simply forward your details to: Nicole Lewis on 02476236813, Fax 02476236024, email n.lewis@coventry.ac.uk, The EPI Centre, Coventry University TechnoCentre, Puma Way, Coventry, CV1 2TT
ENDS