The Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP) is a framework for a number of EU funding Programmes and initiatives whose common aim is to encourage the competitiveness of European enterprises with a specific focus on SMEs. CIP funds non-R&D type projects which mainstream innovative products, services, and approaches. The Programme operates with annual calls as opposed to a seven year programme of activity common in the regional programmes.
We have detailed, in our view, the three most relevant EU wide CIP Programmes below:
The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme is focused on the start-up and growth of small companies. Under this banner the European Investment Bank helps facilitate access to funding for SMEs and the Commission runs EU wide networks to help support businesses access EU market opportunities and funding for innovation. Enterprise Europe Scotland delivers aspect for the business community in Scotland.
In addition, the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme has three smaller Programmes under its banner:
- Eco-innovation Programme which funds products and processes which help mainstream “green” activities
- PRO-INNO is a policy tool which can help support innovation mechanisms for policy makers and public support organizations
- INNOVA which tests support services for innovative SMEs
The ICT Policy Support Programme aims to stimulate the up-take and use of ICT. In particular, it focuses on support for pilot actions using innovative ICT-based services for the development of digital content.
The Intelligent Energy Europe Programme focuses on supporting actions to accelerate the uptake and promotion of:
- Energy efficiency;
- New and renewable energy sources; and
- Technological solutions.
Through various measures this Programme will bridge the gap between the successful demonstration of innovative technologies and their effective introduction to the market.
Further information
National Contact Point for IEE & FP7 Energy
Ms Helen Fairclough
Energie Helpline UK
energie@enviros.com
T: +44 (0)161 874 3636
National Contact Point for ICT Policy Support Programme
Mr. Peter WALTERS
Tuvnel
pwalters@tuvnel.com
T: +44 (0)1932 251 260
Enterprise Europe Network Scotland for activities under the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme
Scottish Enterprise
info@enterprise-europe-scotland.com
T: +44 (0)141 228 2797