Project description
A boost for open networking tool in the ERA
COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) is an intergovernmental framework for funding research and innovation networks. The networks, called COST Actions, provide an open space for collaboration amongst researchers and innovators to grow their ideas in any science and technology field by sharing them with their peers. As bottom-up, interdisciplinary networks with a duration of four years, COST Actions boost research, innovation and careers. COST funding intends to complement national research funds, as they are exclusively dedicated to cover collaboration activities, including workshops, conferences, working group meetings, training schools, short-term scientific missions, and dissemination and communication activities. Since 1971, COST has received EU funding under the various Research and Innovation Framework Programmes, including Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe.
Objective
Founded in 1971, COST is an intergovernmental framework for cooperation in science and technology (S&T).
As defined in the COST Mission statement, COST provides networking opportunities for researchers and innovators in order
to strengthen Europe’s capacity to address scientific, technological and societal challenges. To do so, COST funds bottomup, excellence-driven, open and inclusive networks for peaceful purposes in all areas of science and technology. According
to COST Vision statement, COST is aiming at becoming the leading open networking tool in the ERA.
In order to continue to pursue its Mission and Vision, the COST Strategic Plan defines three strategic priorities for the
remaining part of Horizon 2020 and in Horizon Europe:
- Promoting and Spreading Excellence
- Fostering interdisciplinary research for breakthrough science
- Empowering and retaining young researchers and innovators
To implement those strategic priorities, COST focuses its efforts on strengthening its core business and implementing a
range of complementary activities.
The COST Association is the beneficiary of a Coordination and Support Action (CSA) following the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2021-22. The COST Association is an AISBL under the Belgian law with an integrated governance, management and
implementation functions, creating the base for a responsible and accountable organisation where the COST Full Members
have direct control.
The legal and financial frame for the COST Association operations is provided via a Framework Partnership Agreement
(FPA) and subsequent Specific Grant Agreements (SGAs). An overall budget of EUR 153 million was foreseen for the first SGA1 for a duration of 36 months, 1 November 2021 to 31 October 2024.
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-SGA-AG - HORIZON Specific GrantCoordinator
1210 BRUXELLES
Belgium