Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has welcomed the official UK launch of the European Union’s research programme – Horizon 2020.  With a budget of nearly €80bn the programme is one of the largest publically funded research schemes in the world. 

“Horizon 2020 is the EU’s flagship research and innovation funding programme, running from 2014 to 2020.  In the fast moving global marketplace standing still is not an option - economies which nurture research and innovation are the most competitive and dynamic.” 

Mr Nicholson said that his work assisting local researchers and firms access previous EU research programmes had highlighted difficulties relating to the level of bureaucracy and the time and investment required preparing and submitting applications.  

 “It was clear that work was needed to make the process less complex especially as it restricted the participation of small and micro firms which are often highly innovative in nature.  Since becoming aware of the problems encountered locally I have worked with the EU’s Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science Maire Geoghegan-Quinn and her team to simplify the process.  I welcome that these concerns have been taken on board and that there has been a concerted effort to streamline the Horizon 2020 application process.”  

 “There will of course be a lot of competition for the funding from across the EU.  Improving the support for potential local applicants is another issue identified in the past and there is now a network of experts in place to help and advise Northern Ireland applicants.  We must now ensure that Northern Ireland universities, researchers and businesses make the most of the opportunities presented by Horizon 2020 as supporting research and innovation and successfully translating this to the marketplace are crucial for driving sustainable economic growth and creating jobs.”