First Calls 2020 Calls launched

The first Calls new European framework program for research and innovation were launched this week, outlining funding opportunities for 2014 and 2015.

Funding opportunities for the first two years (2014-15) of Horizon 2020 are described on the Participant Portal. The work plan provides for a total of €15 billion in funding over two years and reflects the new challenge-driven approach of Horizon 2020, organized around its three pillars: Excellent Science, Industrial Leadership, and Societal Challenges.

Twelve areas of focus were identified in this first Horizon 2020 work plan, each covered by a Call. They represent around 15% of the total number of Calls two years, and total around €2 billion. They are: Personalized health and care; Sustainable food security; Blue growth: unlocking the potential of the oceans; Digital security; Smart cities and communities; Competitive low-carbon energy; Energy efficiency; Mobility for growth; Waste: a resource to be recycled, reused, and recovered for raw materials; Water resources: promoting their value for Europe; Overcoming the crisis: new ideas, strategies, and governance structures for Europe; Disaster resilience: ensuring the safety of societies, including adaptation to climate change.

Several cross-cutting themes have been incorporated into the work plan, ensuring a more integrated approach. These include Innovation; Spreading excellence and widening participation; Information and Communication Technologies (ICT); Social Sciences and Humanities; Gender; International cooperation; Climate and sustainable development.

Cutting-edge scientific research of excellence will be ensured in Horizon 2020 through the European Research Council (ERC). During 2014, through its well-established instruments, the ERC will invest in around 1,000 young or established researchers who wish to settle in Europe.

For more information on Portugal's participation in Horizon 2020, and news about events and new Calls, visit the GPPQ website – Framework Program Promotion Office.