Community Research and Development Information Service - CORDIS

The main objective of Idealist2011 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 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 Idealist2011 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 3rd countries which comprise countries from Eastern Europe Partner Countries (EEPC), Mediterranean Partner Countries (MPC) and selected 3rd coubtries with high technical and economical potential.

The activities of Idealist2011 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 13 years from the 6 preceding projects covering FP4 to FP7
- Strengthening NCP cooperation with support for MS, AS and ICPC
- Provision of Training and Twinning for the less experienced NCPs
- Provision of partner search 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 visibility of the NCPs.