The Sixth Framework Programme, known as FP6, is the EU's main way of providing funding for collaborative research and innovation and wants greater involvement by small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
With an overall budget of Ђ17.5bn, and due to run until the end of 2006, it is open to all types of organisations in the EU, as well as a number of non-EU countries. Its budget is focused on seven "thematic areas" which include: life sciences, genetics and biotechnology for health; aeronautics and space; nanotechnologies and nanosciences; and food quality and safety. The European Commission, which organises the funding, has stressed that it wants to see much greater involvement in all areas by SMEs.
