FP7 

The 7th Framework Programme of the European Community for Research, Technological Development and Demonstration Activities (FP7) runs from 2007 to 2013 and, with a budget of over €50 billion, is the largest R&D programme Europe has ever had. The smaller, yet older brother of FP7, the 7th Framework Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) for nuclear research and training activities runs from 2007 to 2011 and has a budget of nearly €3 billion.

FP7 comprises some novelties, such as support for frontier (basic) research through the European Research Council (ERC) and the Ideas Programme, as well as funding for industry-driven research programmes under the Cooperation Programme, the Joint Technology Initiatives (JTI). The mobility, career development and training activities (also known as Marie Curie Actions) are grouped under the People Programme, while the Capacities Programme mainly focuses on specific measures for SMEs (the former CRAFT and Collective projects), support for Research Infrastructures and the Science in Society activities.