This is a practical guide on the provisions for implementing co-ordination actions in the Sixth Framework Programme. Co-ordination actions (CA) are intended to promote and support the co-ordinated initiatives of a range of research and innovation operators, in order to achieve improved integration of the European research. They are an evolved form of the thematic networks and concerted actions of FP5. Co-ordination actions do not support research and development activities per se. They provide financial support only for the additional activities that are needed to achieve the networking or co-ordination of the research and innovation activities of the operators involved.

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.