186 Research Units proposed for EQUIPAR+2 funding

The Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) has released the provisional results of the analysis of the applications submitted to the EQUIPAR+2Call : National Investment to Reinforce Scientific Equipment in R&D Units. This is a new impetus for the national research system, promoting the renovation, modernization and digitalization of scientific infrastructures and equipment in R&D Units, with an allocation of 50 million euros.

Of the 252 Research Units with an "Excellent" and "Very Good" rating, 204 applied for this increase in equipment, for a total budget of 352.4 million euros. After analysis by an FCT technical committee, the eligible amount was 279.8 million euros. The provisional results approve funding for 186 research units.

This Call aims to re-equip Scientific Research Units, including their digital transformation. The investment aims to support elements such as large scientific equipment, sets of scientific instruments, scientific archives and data, as well as other knowledge-based resources, computer and programming systems, communication networks that promote digital open access and/or other essential infrastructures to stimulate excellence in Research and Innovation activities.

Call EQUIPAR+2 is aligned with the objectives of Component 5 - Business Capitalization and Innovation, and is fully funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), under the investment "RE-C05-i13 - Scientific Research Units", with an allocation of 50 million euros.

After the provisional results have been published, the research units now have the opportunity to present their opinions at the prior hearing of interested parties within the regulatory deadlines.