The Commission has today launched a new initiative that will help regions improve the impact of their investments in research and development by building synergies between EU funding for regional policy and for research.
By awarding a “Seal of Excellence” to top quality research projects submitted under the EU’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, regions will be able to more easily make quality research investments under the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) or other funding sources. They will equally be able to save money by relying on the robust and demanding Horizon 2020 evaluation process. The initiative was launched by Commissioners Corina Creţu, responsible for Regional Policy and Carlos Moedas, responsible for Research, Science and Innovation at the OPEN DAYS – Week of European Regions and Cities.
Speaking before the launch, Commissioner Creţu said: “For 2014-2020, €100 billion worth of investments from the European Regional Development Fund will foster research and innovation, including over €32 billion earmarked to support SMEs, start-ups and entrepreneurs, the main drivers of innovation in Europe. The Seal of Excellence will help identify and support innovative projects and help them grow and compete internationally.” Commissioner Moedas added: “EU regions are already a major investor in quality research and innovation in Europe. Through the Seal of Excellence they can benefit from the world class Horizon 2020 evaluation system to easily identify the best projects in their regions to support with their funds.”
