ICT Policy Support Work Programme Launched

The 5th call for Proposals of the ICT Policy Support Programme (ICT PSP) is already open until the 1st June 2011 containing a Budget of 115.5 million Euro.

Particular emphasis will be put on areas of public interest given their weight in the European economy and the unique solutions that ICT can bring to the societal challenges that lie ahead such as health and ageing, inclusion, energy efficiency, sustainable mobility, culture preservation and learning as well as efficient public administrations. The programme will also provide EU funding to support the realisation of the Digital agenda for Europe.

The ICT Policy Support Work Programme Information Days will take place in the following locations and dates: Paris and Prague on 4th March, Dublin on 7th March, Zagreb on 14th – 18th March, Sofia and Muelheim an der Ruhr on 15th March, Oslo on 21st March, and Madrid on 24th March.

Download the Full ICT PSP Work Programme 2011
More information

New European Union plan to help business start-ups find financing?

According to leaks in the media, the EU wants to adopt a new legislative regime ensuring that, within two years, venture capital funds established in any Member State can function and invest freely throughout the EU.

The plan was put forward in December and is currently being considered as part of the revision of the draft Small Business Act.

Policymakers also want to test the feasibility of an online platform for matching offers and requests for venture capital within the Enterprise Europe Network.

The review of the Small Business Act is expected to be completed by late February.