1. Eurostars The companies of tomorrow

2. Eurostars A European Research & Development Programme Tailor made for SMEs Combining national and European funds Proposed as an art. 169 initiative for co-funding by the Commission Start beginning 2007, duration 7 years A Eureka initiative

3. Cover of Eurostars 21 participating countries, 12 more countries interested €41.5 million per year of participating countries

4. Eurostars offers For companies: A tailor made R&D Funding Programme for SMEs For governments: A real chance for alignment of national R&D programmes in Europe

5. Eurostars: tailor made for SMEs (1) Target group Research performing and market oriented SMEs Demonstrating high growth potential Initiating and leadinginternational R&D projects in small and effective consortia Capable of fast and effective marketing of results

6. Eurostars: tailor made for SMEs (2) Projects Oriented towards translation of new technologies into innovative, concrete products with high market potential in niche markets Consist of research & development Are of short to medium term duration

7. Eurostars: tailor made for SMEs (3) Eureka features Bottom-up: technologies in all areas Highly accessible through experienced, national funding agencies Plus Fast procedures: 3 months from application

8. Alignment of national R&D Programmes Application through easily accessible national agencies Funding on existing and known national R&D programmes International independent expert panel selects projects Uniform programme structure Synchronisation and harmonisation

9. Near Future 2006: finalising the Eurostars Programme and its structure June 2006: Informal launch Eurostars programme Start 2007: pilot tender Eurostars Final support from FP7 through co-decision procedure