Work Programme 2014-2015
calls targeting China
&
topics
with specific reference to China
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Topics targeting China
Work Programme 2014-2015
Page
FAB FLAGSHIP
CALL FOR SUSTAINABLE FOOD SECURITY

SFS-1-2014: Sustainable terrestrial livestock production
 SFS-01a-2014 Genetics and nutrition and alternative feed sources for terrestrial livestock
production:
 SFS-01b-2014 Tackling losses from terrestrial animal disease
 Practical solutions for native and alien pests affecting plants
 SFS-03a -2014 Native and alien pests in agriculture and forestry
 SFS-03b -2014 EU-China cooperation on integrated pest management(IPM) in agriculture
 SFS-4-2014 Soil quality and function
 SFS-13-2015 Biological contamination of crops and the food chain
5
7
9
11
13
14
CALL –WASTE : A resource to recycle, reuse and recover raw materials

WASTE-2-2014 A systems approach for the reduction, recycling and reuse of food waste
WASTE-7-2015 Ensuring sustainable use of agricultural waste, co-products and by-products
15
17

CALL FOR SUSTAINABLE FOOD SECURITY

SFS-03-2014 Practical solutions for native and alien pests affecting plants –
 SFS-03b-2014 EU-China cooperation on Integrated pest management in agriculture
19
SUSTAINABLE URBANISATION FLAGSHIP
TRANSPORT - green vehicles


GV-1-2014 Next generations of competitive Li-ion batteries to meet customer expectations
MG-5-5-2015 Demonstrating and testing innovative solutions for cleaner and better urban
transport and mobility
21
22
ENERGY

LCE 18 – 2014/2015 Supporting Joint Actions on demonstration and validation of innovative
energy solutions
24
AERONAUTICS mobility for growth

26
MG.1.8-2014-15 International cooperation in aeronautics
OTHER CALLS WITH SPECIFIC REFERENCE TO CHINA
ICT - information and communication technologies


28
32
ICT-14-2014 Advanced 5G Network Infrastructure for Future Internet
ICT-25-2015 Generic micro- and nano-electronic technologies
WATER

WATER-5-2014 Strengthening international R&I cooperation in the field of water
33
HEALTH

HOA- 5- 2014 Grant to the global Alliance for chronic disease
35
SOCIAL SCIENCES



INT-1-2014/2015 Enhancing and focusing research and innovation cooperation with the
Union’s key international partner countries
INT-11-2014 European cultural and science diplomacy: exploiting the potential of culture and
science in the EU’s external relations
ISSI 5-2014 Supporting structural change in research organisations to promote Responsible
Research and Innovation
38
40
41
POLAR RESEARCH

BG-2014-2015 European polar research cooperation
43
SME INSTRUMENT

NMP-25-2014-1 Accelerating the uptake of nanotechnologies, advanced materials or
advanced manufacturing and processing technologies by SMEs
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45
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Horizon 2020
Work Programme 2014-2015
Topics targeting China
►
FAB Flagship
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture, Marine and Maritime Research
and the Bio-economy
CALL FOR SUSTAINABLE FOOD SECURITY
SFS-1-2014/2015:
Sustainable terrestrial livestock production
SFS-01a-2014
Genetics and nutrition and alternative feed sources for terrestrial livestock
production
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
H2020-SFS-2014-2Sub call of: H2020-SFS-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-03-12 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Stage 2
2014-06-26 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€128,000,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference
OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Specific Challenge: Due to the increasing demand for animal derived food and the mounting pressure over
land use, further intensification and expansion of animal production is expected. Development of the
livestock sector at EU and global level is challenging as it puts pressure on the environment, human health
and the welfare of animals within the systems. Climate change is an additional pressure to the sustainability
(e.g. productivity, health) of livestock systems. Increasing efficiency is required, while decreasing the
environmental footprint and increasing quality, e.g. nutritional value. Livestock farming systems generate
valuable products for human consumption including some from resources that cannot otherwise be
converted into food (e.g. grass-based systems). They support the development of rural communities.
Extensive livestock systems can contribute to the management and maintenance of ecosystems and may
increase biodiversity.
Means to improve sustainability and productivity of terrestrial livestock systems need to be sought through
breeding, nutrition and health. New phenotypes linked to sustainable animal productivity could be
developed and integrated into breeding schemes. Precision feeding could increase production efficiency by
adapting accurately the needs and the delivery of feed to individual animals. The development of new or
alternative feeds, in particular as protein sources, has the potential to minimise reliance on imports and
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increase European self-sufficiency. Livestock diseases reduce the efficiency of animal production and they
have a major impact in terms of economic costs and animal welfare. Vaccination can be an efficient way to
control diseases and to reduce the use of antimicrobials. Deeper knowledge is required to develop safer,
cheaper, novel, multivalent and more efficient vaccines.
Farming systems need to be (re)designed in a holistic manner to best reconcile the various demands
concerning productivity, sustainability and societal values, for now and the future.
Scope: Proposals should address one of the following issue (A):
A. [2014] Genetics and nutrition and alternative feed sources for terrestrial livestock production
Proposals should address the diversity of production types. New traits linked to feed conversion efficiency
and to sustainability (e.g. robustness) should be investigated and phenotypes should be used for modelling
biological functions and develop predictive approaches of performances. Precision feeding including new
management systems should be developed in order to fulfil the need of individual animals, taking into
account their physiological, health and welfare status, and their genetic make-up. Activities should also
investigate diversifying feed sources, in particular as protein inputs, including industry by-products, organic
waste and alternative crops, and better use of local resources (e.g. pastures and forage crops). The potential
of the new technologies, including their influence on food quality should be assessed. Demonstration
activities of the most promising solutions should be organised. Involvement of the livestock industry is
expected. This call also involves socio-economic aspects as new business models and management systems
are needed for specific production systems. In line with the objectives of the EU strategy for international
cooperation in research and innovation and in particular with the implementation of the EU-China dialogue,
proposals are encouraged to include third country participants, especially those established in China[1].
Proposals should fall under the concept of 'multi-actor approach'[2].
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 7–9
million for (A) would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact: Proposals should show how some, or all, of the following impacts will be achieved:
 New efficiency traits to be incorporated into breeding schemes of various farm species enabling
selection of animals more adapted to environmental changes
 Make Europe frontrunner in re-use of by-products and protein rich resources for feed
 Minimize risk to public health by preventing and controlling animal diseases and reducing the use of
antibiotics in the “One health” perspective
 Increased level of animal welfare
 Increased efficiency and profitability of animal agriculture
 Improved overall sustainability and innovative capacity of the livestock sector
 Increased societal acceptance
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
[2] See definition of 'multi-actor approach' in footnote 1 in the introduction of this Work Programme part.
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SFS-1-2014/2015:
Sustainable terrestrial livestock production
SFS-01b-2014
Tackling losses from terrestrial animal diseases
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
H2020-SFS-2014-2Sub call of: H2020-SFS-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-03-12 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Stage 2
2014-06-26 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€128,000,000 Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Topic: Tackling losses from terrestrial animal diseases
SFS-01b-2014
Specific Challenge: Due to the increasing demand for animal derived food and the mounting pressure over
land use, further intensification and expansion of animal production is expected. Development of the
livestock sector at EU and global level is challenging as it puts pressure on the environment, human health
and the welfare of animals within the systems. Climate change is an additional pressure to the sustainability
(e.g. productivity, health) of livestock systems. Increasing efficiency is required, while decreasing the
environmental footprint and increasing quality, e.g. nutritional value. Livestock farming systems generate
valuable products for human consumption including some from resources that cannot otherwise be
converted into food (e.g. grass-based systems). They support the development of rural communities.
Extensive livestock systems can contribute to the management and maintenance of ecosystems and may
increase biodiversity.
Means to improve sustainability and productivity of terrestrial livestock systems need to be sought through
breeding, nutrition and health. New phenotypes linked to sustainable animal productivity could be
developed and integrated into breeding schemes. Precision feeding could increase production efficiency by
adapting accurately the needs and the delivery of feed to individual animals. The development of new or
alternative feeds, in particular as protein sources, has the potential to minimise reliance on imports and
increase European self-sufficiency. Livestock diseases reduce the efficiency of animal production and they
have a major impact in terms of economic costs and animal welfare. Vaccination can be an efficient way to
control diseases and to reduce the use of antimicrobials. Deeper knowledge is required to develop safer,
cheaper, novel, multivalent and more efficient vaccines.
Farming systems need to be (re)designed in a holistic manner to best reconcile the various demands
concerning productivity, sustainability and societal values, for now and the future.
Scope: Proposals should address the following issues (B):
B. [2014] Tackling losses from terrestrial animal diseases
The goal is to better understand the interaction between the immune system of swine, poultry and
ruminants and their specific pathogens, in particular pathogens associated with high production losses and
to develop innovative and multivalent vaccines taking into account the individual variability in vaccine
responsiveness and different developmental stages. Both the use of current and new vaccine vectors
(including DNA & DIVA vaccines) could be foreseen together with novel and easy-to-use delivery systems
and efficient adjuvants with the aim of fostering an earlier onset of protection and a longer duration of
immunity. New biomarkers and phenotypes would be valuable to help breeding strategies for increased
disease resistance.
Proposals should develop at least two vaccines at the demonstration level and address at least poultry
and/or swine, and/or ruminants. Involvement of the animal pharmaceutical industry is expected to translate
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the finding into marketable products. Significant SME involvement should be ensured. In line with the
objectives of the EU strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation and in particular with
the implementation of the EU-China dialogue, proposals are encouraged to include third country
participants, especially those established in China[1].
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 7–9
million for (B) would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact: Proposals should show how some, or all, of the following impacts will be achieved:
 New efficiency traits to be incorporated into breeding schemes of various farm species enabling
selection of animals more adapted to environmental changes
 Make Europe frontrunner in re-use of by-products and protein rich resources for feed
 Minimize risk to public health by preventing and controlling animal diseases and reducing the use of
antibiotics in the “One health” perspective
 Increased level of animal welfare
 Increased efficiency and profitability of animal agriculture
 Improved overall sustainability and innovative capacity of the livestock sector
 Increased societal acceptance
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
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SFS-3-2014
Practical solutions for native and alien pests affecting plants
SFS-03a-2014
Native and alien pests in agriculture and forestry
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
H2020-SFS-2014-2Sub call of: H2020-SFS-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date
Stage 2
Budget
€128,000,000 Main Pillar
Status
Open
OJ reference
2014-03-12 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
2014-06-26 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Societal Challenges
OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: Native and alien pests[1] cause increasing yearly losses to agriculture and forestry and
plant production costs. Invasive alien species and new pests and diseases impact negatively on native
species (e.g. outcompete), affect food chains, change biodiversity patterns and disrupt terrestrial
ecosystems (including inland water bodies) and landscapes, with further impacts on economic and
recreational activities. Climate change is expected to favour the permanent establishment of many alien
pests and change the distribution of already established pests. The prevention of the entry, establishment
and spread of new alien pests is regulated by the Directive 2000/29/EC. More environmental friendly
approaches in pest and disease control are sought, in line with the Directive 2009/128/EC. Given the high
costs associated with the prevention/controlling of pests and invasive alien species and the reduction of
their environmental impacts, there is a need to further develop integrated mechanisms of response
measures (practical solutions), ranging from prevention of entry to novel Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
approaches.
Scope: Proposals should address one of the following issue (A):
A. [2014] Native and alien pests in agriculture and forestry
Proposals should address threats for both the agricultural (including horticulture) and forestry sectors. A
number of native and/or alien pests and invasive alien species causing (or having high potential to cause)
significant economic losses, having a large environmental impact and therefore posing a major threat for
Europe, should be tackled. Advanced solutions for pests (including weeds) and invasive alien species
prevention and management, utilising the latest plant health measures and technologies with biological and
integrated approaches should be sought. While the centre of gravity should be R&D activities, the technical
and economic feasibility as well as the industrial relevance of the proposed technologies and mechanisms
should be proven through relevant demonstration activities. In line with the objectives of the EU strategy for
international cooperation in research and innovation, proposals are encouraged to include participants
established in third countries experiencing the same problems (including trade partners)[2]. Involvement of
industry (including SMEs) to translate the finding into marketable products or services is required. Active
dissemination towards end-users is expected. Proposals should fall under the concept of 'multi-actor
approach'[3].
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 7
million for (A) would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact:



Effective solutions for the prevention and management of pests and invasive alien species;
Scientific support to the development of relevant EU policies;
Significant economic gains/avoided losses for the European agriculture and forestry [A] and European
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


and Chinese agriculture [B];
Increased product quality and lower environmental impact (e.g. lower level of chemicals, less new
pests)
Development of science-based tools for developing strategies for improving the productivity and
resilience of agriculture and forestry in the context of changing environmental conditions
Impact on a range of agricultural and forestry production and risk management practices
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] Any species, strain or biotype of plant, animal or pathogenic agent injurious to plants or plant products
(ISPM No5, International Standards for Phytosanitary Terms 2010; FAO, 1990, revised FAO, 1995; IPPC, 1997)
[2] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
[3] See definition of 'multi-actor approach' in footnote 1 in the introduction of this Work Programme part.
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SFS-3-2014
Practical solutions for native and alien pests affecting plants
SFS-03b-2014
EU-China cooperation on integrated pest management(IPM) in agriculture
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
H2020-SFS-2014-2Sub call of: H2020-SFS-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-03-12 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Stage 2
2014-06-26 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€128,000,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference
OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: Native and alien pests[1] cause increasing yearly losses to agriculture and forestry and
plant production costs. Invasive alien species and new pests and diseases impact negatively on native
species (e.g. outcompete), affect food chains, change biodiversity patterns and disrupt terrestrial
ecosystems (including inland water bodies) and landscapes, with further impacts on economic and
recreational activities. Climate change is expected to favour the permanent establishment of many alien
pests and change the distribution of already established pests. The prevention of the entry, establishment
and spread of new alien pests is regulated by the Directive 2000/29/EC. More environmental friendly
approaches in pest and disease control are sought, in line with the Directive 2009/128/EC. Given the high
costs associated with the prevention/controlling of pests and invasive alien species and the reduction of
their environmental impacts, there is a need to further develop integrated mechanisms of response
measures (practical solutions), ranging from prevention of entry to novel Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
approaches.
Scope: Proposals should address one of the following issue (B):
B. [2014] EU-China cooperation on IPM in agriculture
Proposals should cover a number of farming systems (including organic) and aim at increasing productivity
while preserving ecosystems and reducing pesticide residues in food. Pests affecting fruits and vegetables
are of particular interest, when the exchange of information, best practices and technologies is a benefit for
both EU and China farmers/growers and consumers. A variety of IPM practices should be sought to address
pests, such as chemical ecology, biological control agents, intercropping, planning tools for farm and
landscape, etc. In line with the objectives of the EU strategy for international cooperation in research and
innovation and in particular with the implementation of the EU-China dialogue, the participation (also in
terms of resources) of Chinese partners in research, innovation and demonstration activities is strongly
encouraged[1]. Practical solutions for farmers/growers, close to the market, should be facilitated by the
involvement of industry (including SMEs) aiming at IPM related technology transfer.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 3
million for (B) would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact:
 Effective solutions for the prevention and management of pests and invasive alien species;
 Scientific support to the development of relevant EU policies;
 Significant economic gains/avoided losses for the European agriculture and forestry [A] and European
and Chinese agriculture [B];
 Increased product quality and lower environmental impact (e.g. lower level of chemicals, less new
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

pests)
Development of science-based tools for developing strategies for improving the productivity and
resilience of agriculture and forestry in the context of changing environmental conditions
Impact on a range of agricultural and forestry production and risk management practices
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
[1] Any species, strain or biotype of plant, animal or pathogenic agent injurious to plants or plant products
(ISPM No5, International Standards for Phytosanitary Terms 2010; FAO, 1990, revised FAO, 1995; IPPC, 1997)
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SFS-4-2014
Soil quality and function
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
H2020-SFS-2014-2Sub call of: H2020-SFS-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date
Stage 2
Budget
€128,000,000 Main Pillar
Status
Open
OJ reference
2014-03-12 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
2014-06-26 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Societal Challenges
OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: Agricultural soils provide the basis for crop and animal production and in turn are
impacted by the different types of land use, water quality, management practices, choice of crops, cultivars
and genotypes. Effects include not only changes to chemical and physical soil properties but also to the
composition of the soil biological community and plant-soil-microbial interactions. Understanding this
complex and fragile interplay is crucial for developing on-farm soil management and conservation practices
to increase agricultural productivity whilst avoiding degradation of this virtually non-renewable resource in
environmentally sustainable ways.
Scope: Proposals should provide a comprehensive analysis of the various types of agricultural land use in
Europe along with the effects of agricultural land use and management on soil properties and soil
functioning. They should further propose ways by which the 'soil environmental footprint' of different
cropping systems and management interventions can be established. Proposals should test new approaches
to on-farm management that enhance key soil attributes for crop productivity and yield stability taking into
account below and above ground aspects. Work should take into account various types of crop and livestock
farming systems and pedo-climatic zones across the EU. In line with the objectives of the EU strategy for
international cooperation in research and innovation and in particular with the implementation of the EUChina dialogue, proposals are encouraged to include third country participants, especially those established
in China[1]. Proposals should fall under the concept of 'multi-actor approach'[2] and allow for adequate
involvement of the farming sector in proposed activities.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 3–5
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected Impact:
 Improved capacity and methods to assess soil-management interactions and their impact on soil
functions
 widely accessible and cost efficient tools to monitor the 'health status' of agricultural soils by
practitioners in the agricultural sector
 increases in crop productivity, quality, and yield stability in conventional and organic farming systems
through improved practices for soil husbandry including crop rotations
 enhanced climate and environmental performance of agricultural activities (e.g. through reduced
adverse impacts on agricultural soils)
 support to CAP environmental objectives and development of further policies in the area.
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
[2] See definition of 'multi-actor approach' in footnote 1 in the introduction of this Work Programme part.
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SFS-13-2015
Call coordinator:
Biological contamination of crops and the food chain
e-mail:
H2020-SFS-2015-2Sub call of: H2020-SFS-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2015-02-24 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Stage 2
2015-06-11 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€93,000,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Status
Open
OJ reference
Specific challenge: The occurrence of biological contamination in various crops is of major concern as it has
major implications for food and feed safety, food security and international trade. Worldwide, it is estimated
that mycotoxins are responsible for losses of up to 5-10% of crop production. Contaminations are due to a
series of events including weather conditions, possible climate change effects, land use, crop management
and varieties as well as harvest and post-harvest techniques. Integrated approaches rather than isolated
solutions are required to effectively control the incidence of mycotoxins in crops and reduce contamination
throughout the feed and food chains.
Scope: Proposals should aim at reducing the risk of mycotoxin contamination in crops and all along the feed
and food chains. They should bring about technical, management and organisational solutions (including
HACCP techniques) that are effective at the various stages of production as well as at pre- and post-harvest
levels and also deal with the safe use of contaminated batches. Proposals should take into account the
development of ICT solutions as well as reliable and cost effective control tools to policy-proposed solutions.
Proposals should benefit conventional and organic supply chains and fall under the concept of 'multi-actor
approach'[1] and allow for adequate involvement of the farming sector in proposed activities. In line with
the objectives of the EU strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation and in particular
with the implementation of the EU-China dialogue, proposals are encouraged to include third country
participants, especially those established in China[2].
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 3–5
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact:
 a toolkit (plant resources, management tools, technologies) to effectively monitor and reduce the
incidence of mycotoxin contaminants in crop production as well as in the food and feed supply chains.
 contribution to legislation and standard setting
 safe use options for contaminated batches
 reduced occurrence of mycotoxin contamination in crops in order to improve productivity and
competitiveness of European agriculture and food sectors.
 reduced risks for human and animal health, and thus increase consumer confidence in agro-food
products.
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] See definition of 'multi-actor approach' in footnote 1 in the introduction of this Work Programme part.
[2] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
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Call –Waste : A resource to recycle, reuse and recover raw materials
WASTE-2-2014
Call coordinator:
A systems approach for the reduction, recycling and reuse of
food waste
e-mail:
More information: http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/portal/desktop/en/opportunities/h2020/topics/2112waste-2-2014.html
H2020-WASTE-2014-two-stageSub call of: H2020-WASTE-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-04-08 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Stage 2
2014-09-16 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€53,000,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C 361 of 11.12.2013
Specific challenge: Food waste has taken on disquieting proportions worldwide in all steps of the food
production and supply chain but especially at consumer level. Before defining measures to reduce such
waste at all stages it is necessary to develop a better understanding of business and consumer behaviour in
relation to waste generation, handling, reuse and by-product valorisation. Technologies for the collection,
sorting/grading, stabilisation and valorisation of food waste, by-products and packaging material need
improvement or development. The aim is to optimise the performance of the whole food system, including
packaging, catering and consumers, and achieve a secure and sustainable food supply, also for the poor.
Scope: Proposals should both address approaches to reducing food waste and packaging materials
generated at relevant stages of the food system and investigate ways of converting food waste into valueadded by-products. A comprehensive methodology for evaluating food waste in all its components should be
developed addressing quality, safety, sustainability, legislation and costs. Inter-disciplinary research methods
include practical, close-to-market approaches for characterising possible new foods and feeds and
identifying the risks and benefits related to the new production processes. A database/inventory should be
developed of recyclable materials, valuable molecules, substances and materials originating from waste and
by-products, also in view of future life cycle assessments (LCAs). Solid involvement of social sciences and
humanities and civil society is a prerequisite to better understanding the socio-economic, cultural and
environmental dimension of food waste and promoting change in the business and consumer environment
for social innovation, while the use of ICT tools is expected to accelerate this. In line with the objectives of
the EU's strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation and in particular with the
implementation of the EU-China dialogue, proposals are encouraged to include third country participants,
especially those established in China[1].
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 9
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact:

A significant contribution to achieving the European policy target of reducing food waste by 50% by
2030, including at the consumer level.

A reduction in waste management costs, and in environmental impacts, including emission of
greenhouse gases.

Supporting a harmonised approach to EU food waste legislation and improved national implementation,
and contribution to new standards.

An increase in the competitiveness of the European food and drink and chemical industry, in particular
- 15 -
SMEs, as measured in terms of market share, turnover, cost effectiveness, employment and intellectual
property, through the development of innovative applications of food waste.
· Progress towards sustainable food consumption patterns leading to healthier consumers and as a result
reduced national health costs.
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
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WASTE-7-2015
Ensuring sustainable use of agricultural waste, co-products and
by-products
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
More information: http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/portal/desktop/en/opportunities/h2020/topics/2115waste-7-2015.html
H2020-WASTE-2015-two-stageSub call of: H2020-WASTE-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-10-16 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Stage 2
2015-03-10 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€54,000,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
OJ C 361 of 11.12.2013
Status
Open
OJ reference
Specific challenge: Agriculture generates co-products, by-products and waste streams that are currently not
properly taken care of both in environmental and economic terms.
In plant production (e.g. from arable, horticulture, fruit, wine, grassland sectors), losses take place at the
farm and post-harvest levels and also down the chain at the level of the retail sector. Co-products or byproducts are generated, for instance in the wine sector, which require sustainable use. Straw has been given
significant attention in the last years as biomass feedstock and potential trade-offs with its relevance for soil
improvement need to be considered.
In livestock production, manure, litter and other effluents management is a challenge, in particular in
industrial production systems. While these effluents can be used as fertiliser, they can also be sources of bioenergy or valuable bio-products. The impacts on the environment, with emissions to the air, soil and water
need to be evaluated. It is important to consider the whole effluent chain to avoid pollution swapping and
health issues, due to possible transmission of pathogens.
Beyond reduction and recycling of agricultural waste, co-products and by-products, there may be
opportunities for new processes enabling innovative uses of these materials, also outside the agricultural
sector.
Scope: Proposals should evaluate existing techniques and develop new and innovative approaches for
efficient use of agricultural waste, co-products and by-products, thereby contributing to the creation of
sustainable value chains in the farming and processing sectors (including the organic sector). A range of
sector-specific case studies (in terms of sources of waste and uses as well as geographic coverage) should
serve to test and take up proposed approaches and technologies. Research and innovation efforts should
address crop co-products/by-products/waste as well as manure/effluents.
On straw and other crop residues (including in mixture with manure), proposals should develop
environmental safeguards such as sustainable extraction rates as well as guidance on optimal use of crop
residues (in particular straw) for soil improvement, taking into account the need to maintain soil organic
matter levels, and on farming practices to harvest and handle crop residues for alternative purposes.
As regards manure and effluents, proposals should address some or all of the following areas:
 nutrient, energy and biochemical recovery from manure and other effluents;
 improved knowledge on the environmental impact of manure and other effluents, further developing
measurements and good manufacturing practices, minimising impacts on water and air quality
(emissions and odors);
 sanitary implications of pathogens that can be transmitted from manure and possible control options;
 management chains, from processing to transport and application.
Involvement of industry (including strong participation from SMEs) should be ensured and pilot and/or
demonstration activities should be performed. Knowledge platforms should be established. In line with the
objectives of the EU’s strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation and in particular
- 17 -
with the implementation of the EU-China dialogue, proposals are encouraged to include third country
participants, especially those established in China[1]. Proposals should fall under the concept of 'multi-actor
approach'[2]. This action allows for the provision of financial support to third parties in line with conditions
set out in Part K of the General Annexes.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 7
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Proposals are requested to foresee close interaction with the other proposals selected for funding through
creation of a joint stakeholder platform and other joint structures.
Expected impact:
 Increased awareness and dialogue across sectors on availability, needs and options for smart use of
agricultural waste, by-and co-products through creation of joint stakeholders platform and other
joint structures.
 Improved resource efficiency through reduction of waste and improved waste management in
primary production.
 Increased opportunities for valorisation of waste, by-and co-products resulting in environmental
and economic benefits for the farming sector (development of new products and processes).
 Enhanced competitiveness through more varied and/or new types of sources for bio-products and
bio-energy in the agro-food (conventional and organic) and bioeconomy sectors.
 Improved soil quality and crop productivity – through an optimal use of crop waste (taking into
account the need to maintain soil organic matter levels) and nutrient recovery.
 Improved water quality – reducing pollution and eutrophication of ground waters, and thus
indirectly marine waters.
 Improved air quality – by reducing livestock emissions.
 Progress towards regulatory and standard development, in particular with respect to environmental
protection and food safety.
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
[1] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the General Annex.
[2] The multi-actor approach aims at more demand-driven innovation through the genuine and sufficient
involvement of various actors (end-users such as farmers/farmers' groups, advisors, enterprises, etc.) all
along the project from participation in the planning of work and experiments, their execution up until the
dissemination of results and the possible demonstration phase. The adequate choice of key actors with
complementary types of knowledge (scientific and practical) should be reflected in the description of the
project proposals and result in a broad implementation of project results. The multi-actor approach is more
than a strong dissemination requirement or what a broad range of stakeholders can deliver: it should be
illustrated with a sufficient quantity and quality of knowledge exchange activities and a clear role for the
different actors in the work. This should generate innovative solutions that are more likely to be applied
thanks to the cross-fertilisation of ideas between actors, the co-creation and the generation of co-ownership
for eventual results. A multi-actor project needs to take into account how the objectives and planning of the
project proposal are targeted to needs/problems and opportunities of end-users, as well as
complementarity with existing research. Facilitation between actors and openness to involving additional
players/groups of players during the project, for instance relevant EIP operational groups, is strongly
recommended.
- 18 -
Call for Sustainable Food Security
SFS-3-2014
Practical solutions for native and alien pests affecting plants
B. [2014]
EU-China cooperation on Integrated pest management in agriculture
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
More information: http://ec.europa.eu/research/horizon2020/pdf/workprogrammes/food_draft_work_programme.pdf
Specific challenge: Native and alien pests 20 cause increasing yearly losses to agriculture and forestry and
plant production costs. Invasive alien species and new pests and diseases impact negatively on native
species (e.g. outcompete), affect food chains, change biodiversity patterns and disrupt terrestrial
ecosystems (including inland water bodies) and landscapes, with further impacts on economic and
recreational activities. Climate change is expected to favour the permanent establishment of many alien
pests and change the distribution of already established pests. The prevention of the entry, establishment
and spread of new alien pests is regulated by the Directive 2000/29/EC. More environmental friendly
approaches in pest and disease control are sought, in line with the Directive 2009/128/EC. Given the high
costs associated with the prevention/controlling of pests and invasive alien species and the reduction of
their environmental impacts, there is a need to further develop integrated mechanisms of response
measures (practical solutions), ranging from prevention of entry to novel Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
approaches.
Scope: Proposals should address one of the following issues (A) and (B) and should clearly indicate to which
one they refer.
B. [2014] EU-China cooperation on IPM in agriculture
Proposals should cover a number of farming systems (including organic) and aim at increasing productivity
while preserving ecosystems and reducing pesticide residues in food. Pests affecting fruits and vegetables
are of particular interest, when the exchange of information, best practices and technologies is a benefit for
both EU and China farmers/growers and consumers. A variety of IPM practices should be sought to address
pests, such as chemical ecology, biological control agents, intercropping, planning tools for farm and
landscape, etc. In line with the objectives of the EU strategy for international cooperation in research and
innovation and in particular with the implementation of the EU-China dialogue, the participation (also in
terms of resources) of Chinese partners in research, innovation and demonstration activities is strongly
encouraged23. Practical solutions for farmers/growers, close to the market, should be facilitated by the
involvement of industry (including SMEs) aiming at IPM related technology transfer.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 7
million for (A) and EUR 3 million for (B) would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately.
Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact:
 Effective solutions for the prevention and management of pests and invasive alien species;

Scientific support to the development of relevant EU policies;

Significant economic gains/avoided losses for the European agriculture and forestry [A] and
European and Chinese agriculture [B];

Increased product quality and lower environmental impact (e.g. lower level of chemicals, less new
pests)

Development of science-based tools for developing strategies for improving the productivity and
resilience of agriculture and forestry in the context of changing environmental conditions
- 19 -

Impact on a range of agricultural and forestry production and risk management practices
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
- 20 -
Energy
CALL FOR COMPETITIVE LOW-CARBON ENERGY
LCE 18 – 2014/2015
Call coordinator:
Supporting Joint Actions on demonstration and validation of
innovative energy solutions
e-mail:
- 21 -
►
Sustainable urbanisation
Flagship
transport
CALL GREEN VEHICLES
GV.1-2014.
Next generations of competitive Li-ion batteries to meet customer
expectations
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
More information:
http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/portal/desktop/en/opportunities/h2020/topics/2601-gv-12014.html
H2020-GV-2014Sub call of: H2020-GV-2014-2015
Publication date
Budget
2013-12-11
€129,000,000
Status
Open
Deadline Date 2014-08-28 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
OJ C 361 of 11 December 2013
OJ reference
Specific challenge: It is important that next generations of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles incorporate
basic electric components, such as electric batteries and their constituent components, that are
manufactured in Europe. This is not the case for the first generation of these vehicles that incorporate nonEuropean battery technologies. The challenge to be addressed is the development of new materials,
facilities and technologies for advanced Li-ion batteries to support the development of a strong European
industrial base in this field. This challenge is complementary to the above mentioned battery
electrochemistry topic pursuing longer terms solutions in the Advanced Materials Work Programme of 2014.
Scope: Proposals should be based on a multidisciplinary approach to pursue the optimisation of the
electrochemistry to hone parameters critical to customer acceptance: cost, safety aspects, resistance to
high-power charging, durability, recyclability and the impact of hybridisation with other types of storage
systems (e.g. ultracapacitors), as well as consideration of scale-up for manufacturing.
In addition, better knowledge on the ageing mechanism and its modelling are needed in order to support
test procedures and the development of standards. In line with the Union's strategy for international
cooperation in research and innovation[1] international cooperation to establish world-level standard is
encouraged.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 5 to 8
million each would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact: Research and innovation activities will bring European industry to a stronger position on
the world market making it possible to launch new production in Europe while at the same time addressing
the shortcomings of electric cars as compared to conventional cars (e.g. cost and weight reduction, safety,
reliability, longevity and fitness for charging under real world conditions). The proposed solutions should
demonstrate industrial scale prototypes improving cell-level energy densities by at least 20%, and costs by
20%, with respect to the best cell chemistries currently on the market.
Type of action: Research and Innovation Actions
- 22 -
MG.5.5-2015
Demonstrating and testing innovative solutions for cleaner and
better urban transport and mobility
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
More information: http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/portal/desktop/en/opportunities/h2020/calls/h2020mg-2015-singlestage-b.html
H2020-MG-2015-Singlestage-BSub call of: H2020-MG-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2015-08-27 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€18,500,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C361/9 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: Many of Europe's urban areas are struggling to address the transport-related challenges
they are facing. New technologies and innovative measures are emerging, but they are not taken up at a
scale that is necessary to meet the targets of the Transport White Paper. Cities are hesitating to implement
innovative solutions because little information is available on their effectiveness and on how to overcome
the barriers to successful implementation. Special attention should be paid to issues related to vulnerable
groups of citizens and gender issues.
Scope: The first part of the topic addresses Innovation Actions to be carried out by city-led consortia,
composed of four to five cities, led by at least two advanced cities, which are committed to establish living
laboratories where innovative solutions can be implemented. The participating cities should demonstrate
their common interests and their vision on how they will ensure a meaningful and close cooperation.
Proposals should outline how the work will support effectively the cities' efforts to follow a viable path
towards sustainable mobility.
Each city should follow an integrated approach by demonstrating and testing under real life-conditions a set
of complementary and reinforcing mobility solutions. The solutions should combine newly-emerging
technologies, policy-based, and soft measures with a strong replication potential. They should cover an
appropriate sub-set of the eight ‘CIVITAS measure categories’: collective passenger transport; demand
management strategies; mobility management and travel awareness; safety and security; urban freight
logistics; information systems and services; and clean fuels and low emission vehicles; car-independent
lifestyles.
A thorough impact and process evaluation, on the basis of a common framework using a clear baseline in
each city, will provide qualitative and quantitative information on the results of the local solutions
implemented. The effectiveness of proposed measures in achieving local policy objectives should be
evaluated and the barriers to broad deployment identified together with recommendations on how to
overcome them. This should be accompanied by effective mechanisms for cross-fertilisation of knowledge
and best-practises among the consortium members and beyond.
Proposals may include preparatory, take up and replication actions, research activities, as well as tools to
support local planning and policy making. A demonstrated contribution to the development or revision of
Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans as well as furthering the Union’s strategy for international cooperation in
research and innovation, especially with China[1], will be an advantage.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 12 to 18
million each for Innovation Actions would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately.
Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Funding for major infrastructure works is not foreseen.
The second part of the topic addresses a Support Action to facilitate cooperation between stakeholders
involved in the projects under this topic, and from across CIVITAS 2020. It should further elaborate the
common ‘CIVITAS Process and Impact Evaluation Framework’, support its implementation and contribute to
- 23 -
local capacity building in deploying innovative mobility solutions. The action should include a clear
communication and dissemination strategy to maximise impact and ensure the continuity of the ‘CIVITAS
Secretariat’ as well as links with the CiVi-Net networks.
This topic complements work under the ‘Smart Cities and Communities’ Call of the Energy Challenge.
Expected impact: The Innovation Actions will produce added-value inputs to the development of European
knowledge base on the effectiveness and impacts of innovative mobility solutions and approaches to their
successful implementation. Clear commitments and contribution from participants to Europe-wide take up
during and beyond the project are expected.
The Support Action will help to promote take up of innovation by strengthening the mechanisms for urban
transport policy making and planning as well as the technical capacity building in the participating cities.
Dissemination, training and exchange activities will aim at a maximum reach of the target audience.
Type of action: Coordination and Support Actions
[1] According to EU-China High Level Dialogue on Transport agreement of 24/09/2012 and 'Joint Declaration
on EU-China Urbanisation Partnership' (subject to finalisation of the appropriate arrangements).
- 24 -
Energy
CALL FOR COMPETITIVE LOW-CARBON ENERGY
LCE 18 – 2014/2015
Supporting Joint Actions on demonstration and validation of
innovative energy solutions
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
More information: http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/portal/desktop/en/opportunities/h2020/topics/1151lce-18-2015.html
H2020-LCE-2015-3Sub call of: H2020-LCE-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2015-03-03 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€175,350,000 Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Topic: Supporting Joint Actions on demonstration and validation of innovative energy solutions
LCE-18-2015
Specific challenge: Without a technological shift in our current energy system, the EU will fail on its 2050
ambitions to largely decarbonise the energy and transport sectors. The EU needs to accelerate innovation in
cutting edge low carbon technologies and innovative solutions, and bridge the gap between research and
the market. A European approach is essential to realise the ambition of seeing low carbon technologies
effectively developed in view of bringing them to the market: it allows key players to come together on a
continental scale; it helps to identify and to tackle the barriers holding back innovative products and services
in the single market; and it allows different sources of private and public funding to be brought together.
Today, EU funding remains a limited part of the overall funding across Europe. Implementation needs to be
increasingly based on partnerships that build the necessary scale and scope, and achieve greater impact
from scarce public and private resources.
Scope: The proposals should aim at coordinating the research efforts of the participating Member States,
Associated States and Regions in the areas and challenges targeted in this 'Competitive low-carbon energy'
call or in the ‘Smart Cities and Communities’ call and to implement a joint transnational call for proposals
resulting in grants to third parties with EU co-funding to fund multinational innovative research initiatives in
this domain. Proposers are encouraged to implement other joint activities including additional joint calls
without EU co-funding.
Activities should focus on demonstrating and validating solutions that reached already TRL 5-6 and bringing
them to TRL 6-7 (please see part G of the General Annexes). Lower TRL research activities necessary to
support this work and forming an integral part of these proposals, will be in scope for funding, provided the
bulk of the activities in the proposal remains focused on demonstrating and validating solutions. Appropriate
user and general public acceptance, regulatory, market up-take (e.g. e.g. regulatory issues, capacity building
and access to finance), social, environmental and resource efficiency aspects should be included. Opening up
demonstration facilities for practice-oriented education and training is encouraged. As regards a possible
ERA-NET in the area of ‘Smart Cities and Communities’, cooperation with emerging countries (e.g. China) is
encouraged, without prejudice of their participation as partners in other initiatives, such as in call for Smart
Cities and Communities.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of 10 to 20
million Euro would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
- 25 -
Expected impact: Acceleration of the time to market of, affordable, cost-effective and resource-efficient
technology solutions to decarbonise the energy system in a sustainable way, secure energy supply and
complete the energy internal market. Reduction of the environmental footprint and the energy payback
time. Strengthening the European industrial technology base, thereby creating growth and jobs in Europe.
Type of action: ERA-NET Cofund
- 26 -
►
Aeronautics
MOBILITY for GROWTH
CALL: MOBILITY FOR GROWTH 2014-2015
MG.1.8-2014-15.
Call coordinator:
International cooperation in aeronautics
e-mail:
More information:
H2020-MG-2014_SingleStage_ASub call of: H2020-MG-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-03-27 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€23,500,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C 361/9 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: In order to leverage resources, mitigate risks and establish long term relationships, the
European aeronautics sector should identify topics of common interest and mutual benefit with other
regions of the world, in particular where these address societal challenges such as a worldwide safe air
transport system, common standards (including for environmental aspects) and win-win situations for
technological development. Aeronautics has inherently and increasingly an international dimension because
almost all current aircraft programmes involve stakeholders from many different countries. Relations with a
number of countries have already been initiated[1] with different levels of maturity and experience, calling
for ad-hoc approaches which respect the different situations. For the coming years, actions are called in the
two following domains:
1.
To establish or deepen links with countries, building on previously established cooperation where
relevant, with the aim to identify subjects of common interest and mutual benefit.
2.
To perform jointly research and innovation actions on topics of common interest, involving the
appropriate funding from both sides.
Scope: Proposals should address fully one of the two following domains, the first is opened in 2014 and the
second domain is opened in 2015:
1. Set up platform of communication between EU and Japan including research and innovation stakeholders
(industry, research establishments, and academia) and aviation research and innovation funding authorities
to maintain a common research and innovation roadmap. This could include organisation of workshops and
short term studies to identify preferred areas of common interest and win-win situations, barriers and
solutions for improved cooperation in research and technology development, and recommendations for
future actions. Proposals should demonstrate good knowledge of research mechanisms in the EU and Japan
and take into account past and on-going cooperation initiatives.
2. The proposed research and innovation actions should address topics of common interest between Europe
and the international partners[2]. This may include joint development of technologies which can enhance
safety, reduce the impact of aviation on the environment (e.g. innovative aircraft configuration, drag
reduction, environmentally friendly aero engines, understanding the mutual impact of aviation on the
environment and the climate), mature new materials and manufacturing processes for aeronautics
- 27 -
components and structures (e.g. composite materials) and develop numerical and experimental tools for
aircraft design (e.g. advanced measurement techniques, use of supercomputing for large scale
multidisciplinary applications, modelling of flow physics).
Expected impact:
Regarding domain 1, the action will contribute to deepen and widen cooperation with Japan and maintain a
common research and innovation roadmap. Actions could assess their impact by estimating the volume /
funding of research and innovation actions which could be undertaken in cooperation between EU and
Japan.
Regarding domain 2, actions will demonstrate their potential to mature the level of readiness of
technologies and concepts, identify how the project results will be of mutual benefit and evaluate the
leverage effect resulting from the coordinating research and innovation funding of EU and international
partner (Russia, Japan, Canada or China).
Type of action: 1) 2014: Coordination and Support Actions; 2) 2015: Research and Innovation Actions
[1] Seventh Framework Programme support actions with Canada(CANNAPE), Brazil - Latin America (CoopairLA), Japan (SUNJET), China (Aerochina, GRAIN), South Africa (AeroAfrica-EU), Ukraine (AeroUkraine) and
United States of America (CooperateUS) plus EU-US Memorandum of Cooperation on civil aviation research
and the multinational aviation research forum (IFARs).
[2] Discussion have been initiated with Russia, Japan, Canada and China; these actions are pending
agreements between the EU and international partners and the content of the actions will be further
specified in the light of the arrangements currently being defined with them.
- 28 -
►
ICT -
Other calls and topics with
specific reference to China
Information and Communication technologies
ICT-14-2014
Call coordinator:
Advanced 5G Network Infrastructure for Future Internet
e-mail:
More information:
H2020-ICT-2014-2Sub call of: H2020-ICT-2014
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-11-25 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€125,000,000 Main Pillar
Industrial Leadership
Status
Open
OJ reference
OJ C361 of 11.12.2013
Specific Challenge:
As Internet usages are proliferating communications networks are faced with new shortcomings. Future
networks will have to support in 2020 mobile traffic volumes 1000 times larger than today and a spectrum
crunch is anticipated. Wireless access rates are today significantly lower than those of fixed access, which
prevents the emergence of ubiquitous low cost integrated access continuum with context independent
operational characteristics. Communication networks energy consumption is growing rapidly, especially in the
radio part of mobile networks. The proliferation of connected devices makes it very difficult to maintain
similar performance characteristics over an ever larger portfolio of technologies and requirements (e.g. Ultra
High Definition TV vs. M2M, IoT). Heterogeneity of access technologies entails unsustainable cost with
increasing difficulties to integrate an ever larger set of resources with reduced opex. Network infrastructure
openness is still limited. It prevents the emergence of integrated OTT (cloud)-network integration with
predictable end to end performance characteristics, and limits the possibility for networks to become
programmable infrastructures for innovation with functionalities exposed to developers' communities.
These are key issues for the competitiveness of the communication industry world-wide are globally
researched in the context of future 5G integrated, ubiquitous and ultra-high capacity networks.
Scope:
a. Research & Innovation Actions: proposals are expected to cover one or more of the strands identified
below, but not necessarily all of them.
Strand Radio network architecture and technologies
The challenge is to support an anticipated 1000 fold mobile traffic increase over a decade and to efficiently
support very different classes of traffic/services. Actions may address the following topics:
- Network architecture, protocols and radio technologies capable of at least a ten times increase in frequency
reuse, making possible low cost spectrum exploitation including for new frequency ranges above 3,6 GHz. It
covers real time and flexible radio resource allocation as a function of traffic/user distribution with possibility
to guarantee and differentiate/prioritize quality of service. The work takes into account novel requirements
from cloud networking, from a multiplicity/diversity of connected devices and services to be served and
content delivery/cell broadcast/caching requirements. Reduction of energy consumption, significant
bandwidth increase in current mobile bands and end-to-end latency are key drivers.
- 29 -
- Versatile low cost ubiquitous radio access infrastructure equally supporting low rate IoT and very high rate
(>> 1Gbit/s) access, enabling service access capability over radio links similar to those of fixed access and a
fixed-mobile seamless access continuum, and integrating satellite access where appropriate;
- Flexible and efficient radio, optical or copper based backhaul/fronthaul integration with low latency,
compatible with access traffic increase and additional signalling increase for multi cell operations;
- Innovative architectures for 5G transceivers and micro-servers, with identification and prototyping of key
hardware building blocks supporting low cost implementation of the identified spectrum usage scenarios.
- Experiment based research preparing for large scale demonstrator and test-beds, leveraging where possible
experimental facilities available in EU Member States or Associated Countries.
Strand convergence beyond last mile
The challenge is to support the integration of a ubiquitous access continuum composed of cooperative,
cognitive fixed and heterogeneous wireless resources, with fixed optical access reaching at least the 10 Gb/s
range and functionalities allowing unified control. Beyond technological aspects, access sharing issues related
competition and support of new business models must be part of the requirements. Actions may address:
- Solving the management heterogeneity of different technologies and protocols used to deploy fixed and
heterogeneous wireless networks;
- Architectures to i) optimise the reuse of (possibly virtualised) functionality across heterogeneous access
technologies and their location (centralised vs. decentralised) in the network; ii) optimise the reuse and
sharing of infrastructures across heterogeneous networks.
Strand network management
The challenge is to radically decrease network management opex through automation whilst increasing user
perceived quality of service, of experience and security. Actions may address:
- Novel simplified (low opex) approaches to overall management of the network, addressing both the network
level management (e.g. Self-organising networks –SON) and the service level management with metrics
enabling to map user perceived quality of services with the state of the underlying network infrastructure and
enabling to value traffic data;
- Combination of software defined network implementations with autonomic management of resources;
- Network security across multiple virtualised or SDN domains, with analysis of risks and vulnerabilities,
definition of threat models and authentication mechanisms across multiple domains. Intelligence driven
security and data analytics may be considered.
b. Innovation Actions: proposals are expected to cover one or more of the strands identified below, but not
necessarily all of them.
Strand Network virtualisation and Software Networks.
Significant work is on-going globally on the way equipment services and network applications can be designed
and deployed, with a highly flexible, manufacturer-independent model of controlling reconfigurable resources
supporting changing/emerging application requirements. Actions may address large scale validation, testing
and standardisation in following domains:
- Virtualisation: i) of network functionalities at infrastructure level, with physical resources reused by
concurrent processes, with open interfaces (API) virtual machines; ii) of the implementation of network
services running on top of the infrastructure, taking a broad approach to network services (routing, NAT,
firewalls..), beyond fully programmable nodes as high‐speed, forwarding devices. Migration paths and coexistence with legacy networking devices is to be considered.
- Orchestration logic (SDN), enabling network programmability, automation of cross domain network
configuration, simplification and programmability of devices, moving towards Operating System (OS) like
orchestration mechanism of the software components of the network. Open source approach may be
considered.
- Tighter integration between the application/service layers and the networking layers, with full landscape
aware decision capability enabling improved reconfiguration capability and time to reconfigure.
- Support of open network functionalities for dynamic integration with third party and OTT cloud
environments offering guaranteed and negotiable end to end SLA's including security aspects, and enabling
exposure of network resources to third party application developers
c. Support Actions: proposals are expected to cover one or more of the themes identified below, but not
- 30 -
necessarily all of them.
In order to ensure coherence and maximum impact of the PPP, additional activities are foreseen:
- Overall programme integration through projects cooperation agreement and analysis of the outcomes
generated by the various PPP projects (project portfolio analysis);
- Horizontal supervision of the societal perspective of the addressed technologies
- Monitoring of the openness, fairness and transparency of the PPP process, including sector commitments
and leveraging factor;
- Analysis of international activities in the relevant 5G domains and identification of international co-operation
opportunities, in view of fostering global solutions, standards and interoperability;
- Support to standardisation bodies through early identification of promising technologies;
- Support to spectrum policy: spectrum requirement identification and operational analysis, also covering
more efficient use of licensed spectrum;
- Development and maintenance of a "5G web site" acting as a "one stop" shop for 5G activities under the
PPP, including also economic, spectrum and regulatory aspects.
- Roadmaps for key PPP technologies and for experimental requirements and facilities
Expected impact:
a. Research & Innovation actions
At macro level, the target impact is to keep and reinforce a strong EU industrial base in the domain of
network technologies, which is seen as strategic industry worldwide. Retaining at least 35% of the global
market share in Europe regarding future network equipment would be a strategic goal.
At societal level, the impact is to support an ubiquitous access to a wider spectrum of applications and
services offered at lower cost, with increased resilience and continuity, with higher efficiency of resources
usage (e.g. spectrum), and to reduce network energy consumption.
At operational level, following impacts are sought:
- 1000 times higher mobile data volume per geographical area.
- 10 times to 100 times higher number of connected devices.
- 10 times to 100 times higher typical user data rate.
- 10 times lower energy consumption for low power Machine type communication.
- 5 times reduced End-to-End latency (5ms for 4G-LTE).
- Ubiquitous 5G access including in low density areas .
- European industry driving the development of 5G standards, at least for the radio part, and to retain control
of 5G SEP (standards essential patents), 20% as a minimum. International co-operation with countries having
bold R&D initiatives in the field (Korea, Japan, US, China) may be considered on a win-win basis.
- Availability of a scalable management framework enabling deployment of novel applications, including
sensor based applications, with reduction of network management opex by at least 20%. Availability of
security/authentication metrics across multi domain virtualised networks.
b. Innovation actions
At macro level, the target impact is i) to create an NFV/SDN industrial capability in Europe with European
providers able to compete on a US dominated market by 2020; ii) to reach large scale operational deployment
of NFV/SDN based networks in Europe by 2020.
At operational level, following impacts are expected.
- network function implementation through generic IT servers (target) rather than on non-programmable
specific firmware (today).
- Fast deployment of large scale service platforms on top of network infrastructures, from 90 days (today) to
90 minutes (target).
- Trustworthy interoperability across multiple operational domains, networks and data centres. International
co-operation with countries having bold R&I initiatives in the field (Korea, Japan, US, China) may be
considered on a win-win basis.
c. Support actions
The expected impact relates to the PPP management as a strategic European programme including projects
cooperation, exploitation of results, dissemination and standardisation, coherent and systematic research
approach, support to roadmapping and constituency building.
- 31 -
Types of action:
a. Research & Innovation Actions – Proposals requesting a Large contribution are expected
b. Innovation Actions – Proposals requesting a Large contribution are expected
c. Coordination and Support Actions
- 32 -
ICT25-2015
Call coordinator:
Generic micro- and nano-electronic technologies
e-mail:
More information:
Topics in this area address research and innovation in the two ICT Key Enabling
Technologies (KETs), micro- and nanoelectronics and photonics. The objective is to take advantage of
Europe's S&T excellence in these two ICT KETs to strengthen the competitiveness and market leadership of
the related industries and develop innovative solutions to societal challenges. The challenge also includes
activities enabling the crossfertilisation of the ICT KETs, with particular focus on photonic pilot production
lines paving the way to the manufacturing of ICT KETs in Europe. The challenge is structured as follows:
The micro- and nanoelectronics part will be implemented by the Joint Technology Initiative (JTI) on
'Electronic Components and Systems'31 and through this Work Programme.
- Implementation through the JTI on 'Electronic Components and Systems': The JTI will
facilitate multi-disciplinary industry-driven research and innovation along the full
innovation and value chain, covering Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 2 to 8.
Focus is on large federating projects including manufacturing pilot lines, technology
platforms and application experiments. These are areas in which resources must be
pulled from Member States and regions. The Annual Work Programme will be
developed within the JTI. It will be based on the multi-annual Strategic Research
Agenda elaborated by industry.
- Implementation through this Work Programme: Generic Technology Development on
micro- and nanoelectronics focused on advanced research and TRLs 2 to 4; please see
part G of the General Annexes. Activities should be of direct industrial relevance and
have a medium time to market.
The photonics topics cover research and innovation activities under the photonics public private partnership
(PPP). The activities will address the whole research and innovation value chain – from materials through
equipment and devices, to manufacturing and to products and services, and from advanced RTD to pilot
lines.
ICT 25 – 2015: Generic micro- and nano-electronic technologies
Specific Challenge: The objective is to keep Europe's position at the forefront of advanced micro- and nanoelectronic technologies developments. This is essential to maintain Europe's global position in the area and
to ensure strategic electronic design and manufacturing capability in Europe avoiding dependencies from
other regions. Advanced micro- and nanoelectronics technologies enable innovative solutions to societal
challenges.
Scope: The focus will be on the grand technological challenges in information processing and
communications based on memory and logic devices, circuits and architectures for advanced CMOS
technologies. It will also be on the exploration of new alternative information processing devices and
microarchitectures for existing or new functions. The objective is to sustain the historical integrated circuit
scaling cadence and reduction of cost/function into future decades.
- 33 -
Water
Call: WATER INNOVATION: BOOSTING ITS VALUE FOR EUROPE
WATER-5- 2014/2015
Strengthening international R&I cooperation in the field of
water
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
More information:
Specific challenge: Sustainable water supply and sanitation is fundamental to the food security, health,
survival, societal well-being and economic growth in developing countries, especially in Africa. Developing
countries are also particularly vulnerable to water-related problems which are expected to be exacerbated
in the future by more frequent and severe floods and droughts due to climate change. A prerequisite for
tackling these challenges is a profound analysis of water resources at cross-boundary catchment scales,
pressures on water resources and conflicts in water use that require sound approaches to water
management, taking into consideration broader socio-economic factors and greater gender balance in
decision making. International cooperation can play an important role in mitigating negative effects.
At the same time, the EU should aim to strengthen international cooperation also with emerging economies,
especially China and India, through strategic partnerships in the field of water. This will allow for joint
development of technological solutions that, capitalising on the mutual knowledge and experience of the
water industry in EU Member States and these countries, have a great potential for further replication and
market uptake. Building on its leadership in international water-related negotiations, the EU will promote its
experience in water policy and river management in order to share best practices.
Scope: Proposals shall address only one of the following issues:
a) [2014] Strategic cooperation partnerships for water research and innovation between Europe and the rest
of the world, promoting the creation of networks of companies (including SMEs), entrepreneurs, not for
profit organisations, policy makers, regulators and funding bodies to create business and social
opportunities. In line with the EU’s strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation33
proposals contributing to implementing on-going international activities and partnerships where the EU
Member States are jointly committed to providing a more coherent approach to research and innovation
(e.g. EU/Member States-India research and innovation partnership on water, China-Europe Water Platform)
that aim at establishing a shared strategic research and innovation agenda will be given priority.
This activity directly aimed at supporting the promotion of coherent and effective cooperation with third
countries is excluded from the delegation to EASME and will be implemented by the Commission services.
b) (no applicable)
.
c) [2015] Development of water supply and sanitation technology, systems and tools, and/or methodologies
to manage risks associated with water supply and sanitation and cross-boundary water management issues,
or integrated water resources management systems for sustainable agriculture and food security,
sustainable environment protection and economic growth, focused on the non-EU Mediterranean countries
and Africa. Proposals should connect to local knowledge, socio-economic development cultures, policy
institutions and implementing bodies, and take into account the gender dimension where relevant. In line
with the EU's strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation36 international cooperation
is encouraged, in particular with non-EU Mediterranean countries and Africa. Proposals should include
- 34 -
participation of organisations from the above-mentioned regions.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 2 and 3
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impacts:
a) Creation of market opportunities for European water innovations outside Europe, thus supporting the
implementation of the EIP 'Water' and its priority areas. Support to the implementation of the objectives set
by the Strategic Forum for International Science and Technology Cooperation37.
b) Better preparedness in Africa to address water and climate change vulnerabilities, with less fragmentation
of efforts better monitoring and forecasting tools, and enhanced knowledge sharing and technology
transfer.
c) Application of innovative technological approaches/solutions adapted to local conditions, operational and
effective application of integrated water management, better identification of water vulnerability by policy
makers, advanced regulatory and economic instruments, improved capacity building of local actors, and
increased economic and social well-being at local and regional levels in the non-EU Mediterranean countries
and Africa. Support to internationally agreed water-related goals, including in the context of the post-2015
development framework and Rio+20 follow up, by bridging the water and sanitation gaps.
Type of action:
a) & b) Coordination and support actions
c) Research and innovation actions
- 35 -
HEALTH
CALL: Health Co-ordination activities
HC0 5 - 2014
Call coordinator:
Grant to the global Alliance for chronic disease:
prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes
e-mail:
H2020-HCO-2014Sub call of: H2020-HCO-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-04-15 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Total Call Budget
€40,000,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C 361 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: In the past twenty years the global death rate from diabetes has doubled and the World
Health Organisation (WHO) is predicting that this will increase by two thirds by 2030. It is currently
estimated that 347 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes with more than 80% from low-and
middle-income countries. Of those suffering from diabetes, type 2 comprises 90% of this population around
the world. Halting the rise in prevalence of diabetes has been identified as one of the 9 WHO non
communicable diseases global voluntary targets to be met by Member States by 2025
With the burden of this chronic non-communicable disease ever-increasing the Global Alliance for Chronic
Diseases (GACD) partnership, of which the Commission is a member, has agreed to launch a call for
proposals on the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes, with a focus on implementation and
intervention research in low- and middle-income countries and in vulnerable populations in high income
countries.
Scope: Proposals must focus on type 2 diabetes. Proposals should generate new knowledge on interventions
and their implementation for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes in low and middle income
countries, and in vulnerable populations in high income countries. Proposals must focus on existing
approaches to prevention and control of type 2 diabetes rather than development of new treatments.
Proposals may address prevention or treatment of specific complications of type 2 diabetes.
Proposals may focus on a wide range of prevention and/or treatment strategies. This may include
programmes addressing (one of or combinations of):
 Changes to lifestyle and behaviour resulting from the provision of an environment that supports and
promotes better health. This may include community-wide approaches, or other strategies targeting
individuals at high risk. For example, population prevention strategies designed to address unhealthy
diets and physical inactivity as risk factors for diabetes;
 Structural interventions or policies designed to promote improved health outcomes. For example,
evaluating the contribution of public policies to diabetes prevention efforts, or monitoring the
potential effects of such policies if adopted and implemented;
 Delivery of relevant health care and health interventions;
 Approaches to implementing accessibility of or adherence to, pharmaceutical, nutritional or other
promising or proven interventions.
Proposals should focus on implementation research, to examine what works, for whom and under what
contextual circumstances, and how interventions can be adapted and scaled up in ways that are accessible
and equitable. Proposals may address prevention or treatment of specific complications of type 2 diabetes.
Proposals may also focus on gestational diabetes. Proposals may focus on specific societal groups but a clear
justification should be provided as to why the group has been chosen and how the choice will assist the
funders in delivering their aim to address health inequities at a local and/or global level. Proposal should
focus on implementation research into interventions for prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes that
- 36 -
are applicable in low resource settings. However, in some settings, proposals may incorporate work to
establish baseline data on prevalence of diabetes and its risk factors to evaluate the impact of the
intervention. Proposals may include these aspects if they do not duplicate existing evidence available.
All proposals should:
 Focus on research into implementation of prevention and/or treatment strategies derived from
existing knowledge and research.
 Develop an improved understanding of the key barriers and facilitators at local and national levels that
affect the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.
 Include an assessment of equity and gender gaps in diabetes prevention and treatment.
 Demonstrate a sound understanding of the local health system context.
 Provide evidence of a health economics dimension such as cost effectiveness of the proposed
intervention and its scalability.
 Describe a clear proposed pathway to embedding the intervention into policy and practice after the
study which addresses how:
 Local and/or national policy makers will be engaged both at the start of the project as well as the end.





The project outcomes/evidence will be utilised for the scaling up of the intervention on a local,
national and international level.
Future scaled-up implementations will fit within the local social, cultural and economic context.
Identify obstacles such as inequities and equity gaps including gender that will be taken into account in
the design of an implementation strategy.
Be proposed by a multidisciplinary project team, including local researchers as co-investigators where
applicable.
Include local stakeholders such as patient groups or community groups.
Proposals shall not include:
 Replication of effectiveness studies and clinical trials testing the efficacy or effectiveness of new or
established pharmacological agents (or combination of agents) which have wider effects than those
relating to type 2 diabetes.
 Aetiological or mechanistic studies of type 2 diabetes.
 Phase I or Phase IIa trials.
 The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 1 to 3
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact:
 Reducing health inequalities and inequities, including gender, in the prevention and treatment of type
2 diabetes in both a local and global context.
 Pursuing knowledge translation and exchange approaches that are designed to maximize the public
health benefits of research findings within different health contexts.
 Providing evidence to inform local health service providers, policy and decision makers on the effective
scaling up of the interventions at the local, national and regional levels. For example, applicants could
address affordability for users and the financial implications for implementing organisations and
funders or might assess scalability to various socio-political contexts.
 Contribute to the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases.
 Appropriate leveraging of existing programmes and platforms (e.g. research, data, and delivery
platforms).
 Contribute to the WHO Global Action Plan on NCDs (2013-2020) as proposals will demonstrate
alignment with international and/or national commitments to halt the rise in prevalence of type 2
diabetes.
 Contribute to the United Nations Millennium Development Goals.
The GACD aims to develop a network of researchers that can enhance cumulative learning across individual
projects, and work towards understanding how socio-economic, cultural, geopolitical and policy contexts
- 37 -
have influenced results and how findings might be adapted and applied in different settings. The funded
researchers should meet annually to discuss their research and share information and data in order to
develop approaches to standardise data collection, and wherever feasible to use these standardised
approaches in their respective projects
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
- 38 -
SOCIAL SCIENCES
CALL : EUROPE AS A GLOBAL ACTOR
INT-01-2014
Call coordinator:
Enhancing and focusing research and innovation cooperation with the Union’s key
international partner countries
e-mail:
More information:
H2020-INT-INCO-2014Sub call of: H2020-INT-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2014-04-29 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€8,350,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Specific Challenge:
The aim is to get the best value out of the Union’s cooperation with its most important international
partners and to generate more impact by enhancing and focusing international cooperation activities, by:
 Stimulating research actors from the Union and its international partners towards increased
cooperation, notably through Horizon 2020 and through the partner's funding programmes;
 Supporting the identification and implementation of targeted international cooperation activities with
sufficient scale and scope;
 Contributing to eliminating remaining obstacles to cooperation between actors from the Union and its
international partners;
Scope: Proposals should support the main objective of the Union's strategy for international cooperation in
research and innovation (COM(2012) 497) to enhance and focus the Union's cooperation activities, by:
 Supporting the policy dialogue on research and innovation between the Union and the partner in
question by identifying areas where targeted international cooperation activities would be of mutual
benefit (notably by taking a forward looking approach) and where there is the potential to generate
sufficient scale and scope. This should be based on existing objective information and analysis and in
particular that provided through previous actions supported through Union funding with the partner in
question;
 Supporting in a flexible manner the implementation of activities agreed within the policy dialogues
between the Union and the partner in question, as well as contributing to increasing the coordination
and strengthening of the synergies between the activities and programmes of the Member States, the
Associated Countries and the international partner in question. Where appropriate, this should include
seeking complementarity and coherence with on-going activities of the Strategic Forum for International
Cooperation (SFIC);
 Encouraging cooperation between research and innovation actors from the Union and the partner in
question, by promoting the opportunities offered by Horizon 2020 towards the international partner.
This should include notably the setting up of web-based information systems, but it can also involve the
organisation of awareness raising and information dissemination activities or the organisation of
brokerage events, conferences or workshops;
 Ensuring that progress is made towards establishing appropriate framework conditions for international
cooperation between the Union and the partner in question, notably by identifying remaining obstacles
for cooperation and by supporting the development of solutions to eliminate these,
- 39 -
 while jointly promoting measures which facilitate international cooperation (e.g. on open access,
scientific visa, IPR, peer review, research integrity etc).;
 This should be underpinned by an analysis of the cooperation patterns between the Union and the
partner in question, notably through Horizon 2020 and previous Framework Programmes. This should
also provide information on the type of participants (including their position in the partner's research
and innovation system) wishing to engage with European researchers through the Union's funding
programmes and their reasons for doing so.
 In this work programme, the following international partners are: Australia, USA, Brazil, Russia, China,
South Africa, and also Ukraine.
Proposals should be made by consortia consisting of balanced partnerships between European and
international partners, ensuring adequate involvement of public authorities and other stakeholders (e.g.
funding agencies, research organisations, industry, civil society) of the participating countries. On the
European side, broad involvement across all Member States and Associated Countries is expected, either
within the consortium or through appropriate outreach activities by the consortium to other Member States
and Associated States. Proposals should build on the results of existing cooperation initiatives, and in
particular those funded through the Seventh Framework Programme Capacities part 'Activities of
International Cooperation'.
Type of action: Coordination and support actions
A maximum of one proposal will be supported per international partner from the list provided above. The
Commission considers that proposals requesting a Union contribution of EUR 1.95 million per proposal for a
duration of three years would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately for the proposals
targeting USA, China, Brazil and Russia. For the proposals targeting Australia, Ukraine and South Africa, the
Commission considers that proposals requesting a Union contribution of EUR 1 million per proposal for a
duration of three years would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this
does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
- 40 -
SOCIAL SCIENCES
CALL : NTEGRATING SOCIETY IN SCIENCE AND INNOVATION
INT-11-2014/2015
Call coordinator:
European cultural and science diplomacy: exploiting the potential
of culture and science in the EU’s external relations
e-mail:
H2020-INT-SOCIETY-2015Sub call of: H2020-INT-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2015-01-07 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€25,000,000
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: At a time when other major global players, such as China or South Korea, are stepping up
their public diplomacy efforts around cultural issues, including science and education, cultural diplomacy
becomes also an emerging interest in the European Union. A number of recent initiatives have been
launched by the European Commission and the European Parliament to reinforce the link between EU
foreign and cultural policies. The Commission's "European Agenda for Culture in a Globalising World" has led
to the establishment of a Member States' expert group on culture and external relations (taking China as a
test case), which has delivered a report with recommendations. Following its 2011 resolution on “Cultural
dimensions of EU external actions”, the European Parliament has launched a Preparatory Action on culture
in external relations, implemented by the Commission. These initiatives are based on the assumption that
European cultural heritage and the long-standing experience with protecting it, as well as European science,
need to be promoted, and therefore included in a broader global strategy.
Effective and coherent EU cultural and science diplomacy cannot only be a major means of furthering intercultural dialogues with third countries and regions, but it can also help in promoting trade in (cultural) goods
and services to and from the EU. Moreover, it provides a significant tool for projecting Europe's immensely
rich and diverse cultural heritage to the world and of allowing the EU to contribute to the global governance
of culture and science. Inversely, cultural and scientific exchanges can also contribute to facilitating
diplomatic relations.
Scope: Research should analyse and compare in depth EU and EU Member States’ bi- and multilateral
cultural relations with major third countries and regions in EU's neighbourhood and beyond, as well as
international organizations. It should emphasize the institutional set-up, processes and contents of the EU's
external cultural activities and how cultural issues are embedded into its external relations more generally.
As part of this exercise, science and technology cooperation - as significant complement of cultural
diplomacy - should explicitly be examined. The role of the Council of Europe and the multilateral dimensions
of global cultural relations within UNESCO should equally be investigated.
Special attention should be paid to the role of non-governmental and private sector organisations as well as
cooperation of cultural professionals and scientists. Research could compare the EU and its Member States
with other major, and often very active global players (e.g. the US, China or South Korea). The broader social,
political and economic developments that EU diplomatic activities in the cultural and scientific domain are
embedded into should be accounted for when researching this issue.
The participation of international partners in proposals submitted to this call is encouraged.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 1.5 and 2.5
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
- 41 -
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact: Research that will look into the evolutionary nature of multiple cultural ties between
Europe and specific countries and world regions, also from a historical perspective, is expected to furnish a
critical overview of the existing EU and Member State external cultural and science policies. It will explore
incentives for joint action and reveal possibilities for achieving synergies and coordination. It will highlight
best practices and effective cooperation, but also inconsistences and shortcomings in political and economic
terms. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of the potential for and challenges facing
European Union cultural and scientific diplomacy and the embedding of culture into its external relations
more widely. They will allow for drawing policy implications on the set-up, the role of different EU
institutions and services in, as well as the contents and processes of such diplomacy.
Type of action: Research and innovation actions
- 42 -
ISSI .5.2015
Supporting structural change in research organisations to promote
Responsible Research and Innovation
Call coordinator
e-mail:
H2020-ISSI-2015-1Sub call of: H2020-ISSI-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Deadline Date 2015-09-16 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Budget
€22,000,000
Main Pillar
Science with and for Society
Status
Open
OJ reference OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: Many barriers exist to practical implementation of RRI in research organizations.
Therefore it is crucial to encourage the modernisation of institutional practices and culture in research
institutions, Higher Education Institutions and funding agencies, to promote Responsible Research and
Innovation. It also aims at supporting common actions by research institutions to identify and implement the
best systemic organisational approaches to increase Responsible Research and Innovation uptake in
research organizations.
Scope: This topic aims at developing a Responsible Research and Innovation Plan covering five RRI keys
(societal engagement, gender equality and gender in research and innovation content, open access, science
education and ethics) in each participating institution. The proposals shall include an analysis of the main
problems and challenges, as well as a set of specific implementing actions aiming at the necessary structural
change on the basis of specific situation and challenges. Action Plans shall be accompanied by an
implementation roadmap. The RRI plans shall:
 Conduct impact assessment / audit of procedures and practices in order to identify RRI barriers at
organisation level;
 Implement innovative strategies to address RRI barriers;
 Develop the RRI dimension in research content and programmes;
 Set targets and monitor progress via indicators at organisation level.
The proposals shall include a methodology for impartially monitoring and assessing the progress made
throughout the duration of the project. This activity could be dedicated to a specific partner organisation or
subcontracted.
The proposals should include an international dimension in particular with the following countries: Brazil,
Republic of South Africa, India, Canada, Australia, Russia, United States of America, Japan and China.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 2 and 4
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
Expected impact: Activities shall produce tangible and measurable results in terms of organisational process
and structures. They will improve the uptake of Responsible Research and Innovation in research
organisations, as the Plans will continue to be implemented in the medium / long term. In the medium term,
institutional change shall be scalable to research institutions across EU 28 and Associated countries, thus
contributing towards European Research Area (ERA) objectives. In the long term, the action will increase
research institutions' ability to generate innovation that reflects societal needs.
Type of action: Coordination and Support Actions.
- 43 -
Polar research
CALL : BLUE GROWTH:UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF SEAS AND OCEANS
BG-2014-2015
European polar research cooperation
Call coordinator:
e-mail:
More information:
H2020-BG-2014-1Sub call of: H2020Publication date
Budget
2013-12-11
€15,000,000
Status
Open
Deadline Date 2014-06-26 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Main Pillar
Societal Challenges
OJ C361 of 11 December 2013
OJ reference
Specific challenge: Nowhere is climate change more evident than in the high latitudes. Increased shipping
for transport and tourism purposes, highly variable fish stocks, increased oil and gas exploration and mining
are challenges and opportunities faced in polar regions that require sound scientific knowledge of
vulnerabilities and risks in order to develop appropriate regulatory policies. In the 2012 Joint Communication
to the European Parliament and the Council 'Developing a European Union Policy towards the Arctic Region',
the Commission and the High Representative point out that the EU will 'support research and channel
knowledge to address the challenges of environmental and climate changes in the Arctic'. Rapid
environmental changes in the Arctic and parts of the Antarctic continent have global impacts both by
accelerating global warming and in a geo-strategic and socio-economic dimension. European countries
operate world class research infrastructures in both Arctic and Antarctic regions and are leading in many
fields of polar research with regards to climate, ecosystems, life in extreme environments, pollution
monitoring and other aspects. Making the most efficient use of these resources and the latest scientific
developments, for addressing the abovementioned challenges requires a high degree of coordination within
Europe and beyond.
Scope: Proposals should coordinate polar research in Europe and develop a comprehensive European Polar
Research Programme. By setting up a continuous stakeholder dialogue the action should communicate user
needs to the appropriate scientific community and/or research programme managers. In line with the
objectives of the EU strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation (COM (2012) 497)
proposals should contribute to implementing the Transatlantic Research Alliance, launched by the Galway
Statement on Atlantic Ocean Cooperation in May 2013, and should benefit from the inclusion of partners
from the US and Canada[1]. Cooperation is as well encouraged with partners from other third countries,
such as Russia, Japan, China, India and Latin American countries [2], also by supporting Belmont forum
cooperative research actions. This initiative strives for enhanced coordination with international research
organisations and programmes related to polar research (e.g. AMAP[3], WCRP[4], and JPI[5] 'Climate') as
well as with relevant operational services including Copernicus. It is also expected to provide support to the
coordination and optimisation of existing monitoring and modelling programmes and related infrastructures
and work towards interoperability of and open access to observational and modelling data and related
products.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU in the range of EUR 2
million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not
preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.
- 44 -
Expected impact:
Substantially increase the scale and ambition of polar research cooperation in Europe.
Increase the coherent and efficient use of European resources.
Improve global cooperation.
Induce a step change in the domain of open data access, quality control and interoperability.
Contribute to policy advice at national and EU level and support to the EU's international commitments with
respect to the Arctic Council, the Montreal protocol, and UNFCCC[6] and others related to polar sciences.
Type of action: Coordination and support actions
[1] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
[2] This is without prejudice to the general rules on the funding of legal entities from third-countries, as set
in part A of the annex to the work programme.
[3] Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme
[4] World Climate Research Program
[5] Joint Programming Initiative
[6] United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
- 45 -
SME Instrument
Call on Nanotechnologies, advanced materials, biotechnology and
advances manufacturing and processing
NMP-25-2014-1
Accelerating the uptake of nanotechnologies, advanced
materials or advanced manufacturing and processing
technologies by SMEs
H2020-SMEINST-1-2014Sub call of: H2020-SMEInst-2014-2015
Publication date
2013-12-11
Budget
Status
€25,102,000
Open
Deadline Date 2014-12-17 17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Intermediate
2014-06-18 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
deadlines(s)
2014-09-24 +17:00:00 (Brussels local time)
Main Pillar
Industrial Leadership
OJ reference OJ C361/9 of 11 December 2013
Specific challenge: Research results should be taken up by industry, harvesting the hitherto untapped
potential of nanotechnologies, advanced materials and advanced manufacturing and processing
technologies. The goal is to create added value by creatively combining existing research results with other
necessary elements,[1] to transfer results across sectors where applicable, to accelerate innovation and
eventually create profit or other benefits. The research should bring the technology and production to
industrial readiness and maturity for commercialisation after the project.
Scope: The SME instrument consists of three separate phases and a coaching and mentoring service for
beneficiaries. Participants can apply to phase 1 with a view to applying to phase 2 at a later date, or directly
to phase 2.
In phase 1, a feasibility study shall be developed verifying the technological/practical as well as economic
viability of an innovation idea/concept with considerable novelty to the industry sector in which it is
presented (new products, processes, design, services and technologies or new market applications of
existing technologies). The activities could, for example, comprise risk assessment, market study, user
involvement, Intellectual Property (IP) management, innovation strategy development, partner search,
feasibility of concept and the like to establish a solid high-potential innovation project aligned to the
enterprise strategy and with a European dimension. Bottlenecks in the ability to increase profitability of the
enterprise through innovation shall be detected and analysed during phase 1 and addressed during phase 2
to increase the return in investment in innovation activities. The proposal should contain an initial business
plan based on the proposed idea/concept.
The proposal should give the specifications of the elaborated business plan, which is to be the outcome of
the project and the criteria for success.
Funding will be provided in the form of a lump sum of EUR 50 000. Projects should last around 6 months.
In phase 2, innovation projects will be supported that address the specific challenge and that demonstrate
high potential in terms of company competitiveness and growth underpinned by a strategic business plan.
Activities should focus on innovation activities such as demonstration, testing, prototyping, piloting, scalingup, miniaturisation, design, market replication and the like aiming to bring an innovation idea (product,
process, service etc) to industrial readiness and maturity for market introduction, but may also include some
research. For technological innovation a Technology Readiness Levels of 6 or above (or similar for nontechnological innovations) are envisaged; please see part G of the General Annexes.
Proposals shall be based on an elaborated business plan either developed through phase 1 or another
means. Particular attention must be paid to IP protection and ownership; applicants will have to present
convincing measures to ensure the possibility of commercial exploitation ('freedom to operate').
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Proposals shall contain a specification for the outcome of the project, including a first commercialisation
plan, and criteria for success.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU between EUR 0.5 and 2.5
million would allow phase 2 to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission
and selection of proposals requesting other amounts. Projects should last between 12 and 24 months.
In addition, in phase 3, SMEs can benefit from indirect support measures and services as well as access to
the financial facilities supported under Access to Risk Finance of this work programme.
Successful beneficiaries will be offered coaching and mentoring support during phase 1 and phase 2. This
service will be accessible via the Enterprise Europe Network and delivered by a dedicated coach through
consultation and signposting to the beneficiaries. The coaches will be recruited from a central database
managed by the Commission and have all fulfilled stringent criteria with regards to business experience and
competencies. Throughout the three phases of the instrument, the Network will complement the coaching
support by providing access to its innovation and internationalisation service offering. This could include, for
example, depending on the need of the SME, support in identifying growth potential, developing a growth
plan and maximising it through internationalisation; strengthening the leadership and management skills of
individuals in the senior management team and developing in-house coaching capacity; developing a
marketing strategy or raising external finance.
Expected impact:
Enhancing profitability and growth performance of SMEs by combining and transferring new and existing
knowledge into innovative, disruptive and competitive solutions seizing European and global business
opportunities.
Market uptake and distribution of innovations tackling the commercial uptake of nanotechnologies,
advanced materials and advanced production technologies in a sustainable way.
Increase of private investment in innovation, notably leverage of private co-investor and/or follow-up
investments.
The expected impact should be clearly described in qualitative and quantitative terms (e.g. on turnover,
employment, market seize, IP management, sales, return on investment and profit).
Type of action: SME Instrument (70% funding)
[1] http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/innovation/files/swd-2012-458_en.pdf
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