Idealist2014 · Trans-national cooperation among ICT NCPs

The main objective of Idealist2014 is reinforcing the network of National Contact Points (NCP) for ICT under FP7, by promoting further trans-national cooperation within this network. This cooperation will not be reduced to only ICT NCPs but also a degree of collaboration and networking with similar networks in parallel themes (Security, SSH, ENV, Transport, Energy, Health,...etc) especially in the context of joint/coordinated or PPP calls will be covered. Special focus is put on helping less experienced NCPs from Member States (MS) and Associated States (AS) to access the know-how accumulated in other countries and to apply it in a locally relevant and efficient manner. Furthermore Idealist2014 aims to address national and cross-border audiences, relying on the NCP network mainly established in the MS and AS at national and regional level, to stimulate, encourage and facilitate the participation in current and future Community ICT research of organisations of all types. Special focus is put on newcomers and SMEs, including organisations from MS, AS and ICPCs which comprise countries from Eastern European Partner Countries (EEPC), Mediterranean Partner Countries (MPC) and selected ICPCs with high technical and economical potential.The activities of Idealist2014 are incremental to the formal NCP responsibilities as they address the international aspects not covered by the nationally funded NCP role. It is built upon:-Experience gained over more than 15 years from the 7 preceding projects covering FP4 to FP7 and now the transition to FP8-Strengthening NCP cooperation with support for MS, AS and ICPCs-Provision of Training and Twinning for less experienced NCPs-Provision of partner search, pre- and full proposal quality support-Focused support for SMEs in the ICT sector and for organisations new to the FP-Provision of NCP support for countries with S&T international agreements-Promotion of opportunities and Idealist services ensuring a higher NCP visibility