The Scheme has
three main objectives:
1) to increase the participation of
businesses in EU funded projects.
2) to increase the R&D and innovation linkages
between businesses
3) to encourage firms to collaborate with
other research performers within the EU and with Third Country Partners.
Promoters of
approved projects may benefit from a cash grant of up to ¬10,000. The first
type of eligible costs include up to 60% of the scientific and administrative
personnel directly employed by the SME and assigned wholly or partially in
developing the required proposal. In addition, up to 60% of costs pertaining to
the procurement of technical consultancy services from external experts
directly related to the development of the project proposal are granted on the
strength ofthe Scheme but the grant value cannot exceed ¬5,000. Travel and per
diem costs are also covered under the Scheme with up to 60% of costs for the
former and up to three (3) days for each approved trip for the latter. The
maximum total grant in relation to travel costs and per diem is capped at
¬2,000 per supported project.
The Exploratory
Award Scheme will run until 31st December 2013.