Anthea Fabri Horizon 2020 National NCP Coordinator Support for researchers through the National Contact Point (NCP) Organisation Anthea Fabri Horizon 2020 National NCP Coordinator

Outline: General purposes of NCPs The Maltese NCP System Tasks of the NCPs Tips for Success Malta’s participation in FP7

Context: National Contact Point (NCP) Systems are established to promote equal and consistent support; Objective: to provide information about the European Framework Programme for Research and Innovation and give support to applicants at all stages of the application process.

General purpose of NCPs NCP systems are established, operated and financed by National Governments; National authorities will ensure compliance with ‘minimum standards and guiding principles’; EC provides general and specialist information on Horizon 2020 to the NCPs, promotes the cooperation through transnational networks and trainings.

Rules of Participation Publication of Calls Rules of Participation European Commission Researchers /Organisations National Contact Points

The Maltese NCP System The Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST) is mandated by the Government as the NCP Organisation for Horizon 2020 – the New Framework Programme – to provide targeted information and hands-on advice; NCPs for different areas of Horizon 2020 nominated; Every local NCP is part of a NCP network at European level.

Tasks of the National Contact Points 1. We inform 2. We advise 3. We connect

1. We inform Identify opportunities for Malta in current calls; Circulate general and specific information on Horizon 2020; Organise information and promotional activities; Provide information as necessary on other European RTD-programmes such as COSME, COST.

2. We advise Offer one-to-one consultations and full confidentiality; Assist researchers and organisations in particular new actors and SMEs; Assist in partner searchers (internet based tools, cooperation networks, EEN etc.); Advise on administrative procedures, rules and issues (role and responsibilities of participants, rights and obligations, funding schemes...);

2. We advise cont.. Advise on joining consortia and proposal writing; Organise training sessions for specific groups or on particular topics; Review proposals before submission; Advise during project negotiation and project implementation stages.

3. We connect Brokerage events; Consortium meeting; Partner Search Platforms: NCP Networks; Direct contact with NCPs; Enterprise Europe Network (EEN).

Cooperation between NCPs and Commission Services – Main interactions: Provide information and data related to the mandate of NCPs; Invite NCPs to participate in information and awareness activities; Provide information at the earliest possible time on work programmes, roadmaps, upcoming calls, changes in administrative rules etc.; Address problems, identify good practices; Provide relevant distribution material.

Tips for Success.. Think Strategic; Have a New and Innovative Idea; Have a Strong Profile; Be Selective and Realistic; Be close to your business; Learn from Past Experiences; Read ALL documents; Raise Issues Early (IP, financial issues); Speak to your NCP.

Malta’s participation in FP7 €17.4 million in funds; 146 projects; 173 local participants; 20 projects coordinated by MT entities.

Thank you! For further information: Anthea Fabri Horizon 2020 National NCP Coordinator Malta Council for Science and Technology, Tel: 2360 2141 Email: anthea.fabri@gov.mt horizon2020.mcst@gov.mt Find out more: www.ec.europa.eu/research/horizon2020