Finland launches technology programme on safety and security A new EUR160 million technology programme on safety and security has been launched by Tekes, the Finnish National Technology Agency. The programme's priorities are in line with those of the new 'Security' thematic area of the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7). 'Finland has a ... A new EUR160 million technology programme on safety and security has been launched by Tekes, the Finnish National Technology Agency. The programme's priorities are in line with those of the new 'Security' thematic area of the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7). 'Finland has a lot of excellent knowledge and technologies that can be turned into international business in the safety and security market,' says Tekes' Senior Technology Adviser Mikko Moisio. Over the next seven years, the programme will provide funding to research and development in a whole host of areas, from information safety, industrial production processes and transport and logistics, to food safety, environmental monitoring and crisis management. In terms of who pays what, a total of €80 million will be provided by Tekes, while businesses are expected to invest the remaining half. In the first year though, the focus will be on the development of systems used in crisis situations, safety and security technologies related to the mobility of goods and people, methods of risk assessment and the development of safety and security sector business models. Because of rapid developments in security, the programme will be reviewed every year. The priorities outlined in the new programme reflect those in the 'Security' programme of FP7. A total of €1.4 billion is earmarked for this thematic area, which will include funding for the development of technology solutions for civil protection, bio-security, protection against crime and terrorism, as well as technologies, equipment, tools and methods for protecting Europe's border controls such as at land and coastal borders. Technologies and communication; coordination in support of civil, humanitarian and rescue tasks; improving security systems integration; and interconnectivity and interoperability will also benefit from funding. Countries Finland
