Scope:

Support will be given to a consortium of formally nominated NCPs in the area of MSCA. The activities will be tailored according to the nature of the area, and the priorities of the NCPs concerned. Various mechanisms may be included, such as benchmarking, joint workshops, enhanced cross-border brokerage events, training sessions linked to MSCA as well as to Responsible Research and Innovation, twinning schemes, etc. Special attention will be given to enhancing the competence of MSCA NCPs, including helping less experienced NCPs rapidly acquire the know-how accumulated in other countries. It will also be encouraged to build up cooperation with other networks to increase visibility to potential beneficiaries, especially in the non-academic sector.

The focus throughout should be on issues specific to MSCA and should not duplicate actions foreseen in the NCP network for quality standards and horizontal issues under 'Science with and for Society'.

Only NCP organisations from EU Member States, Associated Countries, and third countries which have been officially appointed by the relevant national authorities are eligible to participate in and receive funding for this action.

The consortium should have a good representation of experienced and less experienced NCPs.

Submission of a single proposal is encouraged. NCPs from EU Member States, Associated Countries or third countries choosing not to participate as a member of the consortium are nevertheless invited and encouraged to participate in the project activities (e.g. workshops), and the costs incurred by the consortium for such participation (e.g. travel costs paid by the consortium) may be included in the estimated budget and be eligible for funding by the Commission.

The Commission will only fund one proposal under this topic. The maximum duration of support will be three years from the starting date specified in the grant agreement.

Expected Impact:

• An improved and professionalised NCP service across Europe, therefore helping simplify access to Horizon 2020 calls, lowering the entry barriers for newcomers, and raising the average quality of submitted proposals.
• A more consistent level of NCP support services across Europe.

Source: Participant Portal