what can you learn?
The EU budget for research and innovation is increasing every year and we can show you how you can get involved. You will get first-hand information about priorities, objectives and participation rules and in special sessions you will get the practical advice you really need. We will be paying particular attention to promising ideas from the new Member States.

The event will present three major ongoing research initiatives:

• The Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), 2007-2013
• The Structural Funds, 2007-2013 and
• The Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP), 2007-2013

We will use the event to collect experience from these programmes so far direct from those who have been involved. This will then be used to stimulate better involvement and networking in the future.

who will attend?
Scientists, industrialists and researchers are invited to register for the conference. Participants will cover their own travel and accommodation costs. A list of hotels will be available on the conference web site. A specific programme will be designed for science journalists, the European press, audiovisual media and press agencies.

what does it mean for you?
The conference is full of opportunities! During two full days, we will bring you into contact with experienced researchers from successful European projects, giving you the opportunity to meet reliable partners who could be involved in your projects.

This is what will be on offer:

• Plenary sessions with the main European political players
• Parallel sessions on EU research initiatives
• Hands-on sessions with FP7 participants, European organisations, etc.
• Presentations of successful projects to you and to the press. Guidance on how to participate in EU research programmes (rules, tips, measures for small- and medium-sized enterprises, etc.)
• Forum sessions on how to maximise your participation in EU research programmes organised on a 'bottom-up' basis by the participants themselves. A call for proposals targeting potential contributors will be published in 2008 on the conference website.(www.ec.europa.eu/research/rtd-2009)

where and when?
The conference and exhibition will take place in Prague, Czech Republic from 7 to 8 May 2009. The participation fee will be € 50 for the two days. One-day passes will be available for € 30.

what’s on stage?
An exciting selection of EU-funded projects will be exhibited. This will promote the networking and integration of research activities in Europe. A call for proposals to find potential exhibitors will be published in 2008 on the conference website.
Full details on participation requirements will be available on: www.ec.europa.eu/research/rtd-2009