This document is a practical guide to the provisions for implementing networks of excellence in the Sixth Framework Programme. Networks of excellence are designed to strengthen scientific and technological excellence on a particular research topic by integrating at European level the critical mass of resources and expertise needed to provide European leadership and to be a world force in that topic. This expertise will be networked around a joint programme of activities aimed principally at creating a progressive and durable integration of the research capacities of the network partners while, of course, at the same time advancing knowledge on the topic.

This document expresses solely the views of the inter-service FP6 Instruments Task Force of the European Commission services. It is distributed by Unit B.2 of the Research DG of the European Commission.