Framework Programme ‘adds significant value’, finds expert panel

An expert panel led by Dr Erkki Ormala, Vice President of Technology Policy at Nokia, has concluded that the European Union's Research and Development Programmes have made a major contribution to the development of Europe's knowledge base and have a positive effect on Europe's potential for innovation. However the panel found that if this positive effect is to be continued, more resources will be needed in the future. The panel also recommended more industry participation, especially SMEs; streamlined and simplified administration; and more emphasis on radical innovation and risk-taking.

European Commission: DG Research: Reports: Five year assessment http://ec.europa.eu/comm/research/reports/2004/fya_en.html

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