Strategies For Successful Framework Programme Grants John Latham Deputy Vice-Chancellor Coventry University

Location Location Location Brussels or Luxembourg Frameworks Programmes are a contact sport Framework Programmes are European Framework programmes are not just academic research Failure is not an option Success is not a right – But it is an ART – And a long-term Strategy Success is not winning the grant it is delivering it

Framework bidding involves Planning – Pre-programme to programme Time – Programme Formulation / Evaluation – Project Formulation / Evaluation Money – Sunk Development Costs – Exchange Rates Staff Commitment – European / Applied in Nature Resources – Capacity / Capability / Sustainability

Partnerships (Positive ) Share costs A starting point for first time bidders Give an increased track record Widen the range of possible bids Are often looked upon favorably Differ depending on the funding scheme Supply Chain - route to success Favorites / Fair share of funding

Partnerships (Negative) Require legal documentation Included but not needed Can dilute funding - share income Power play - powerful players Problems with uneven funding Large management overhead Makes project inflexible / non-responsive

Partnerships (Negative 2) Funding that does not appear Coordinator headaches Bidding co-ordination problems Contract negotiation problems Multi-annual/financial years Avoid partners with income targets

Being Proactive Form a strategy Integrate with the Commission Bank of Evaluators - expertise Prepare bid support documentation Develop a bid procedure in advance Register interest as early as possible Form partnerships in advance Find out if user friendly guidelines Talk to experienced bidders Being reactive reduces your chances Do not use resources chasing rainbows

Outline bid procedure Register interest | attend info days Attend bid writing / case-study workshops Talk to the people with the money Read sample bids / evaluation procedure Allocate resources | set timetable Prepare project outline | lobby for support Prepare bid according to rules Meet the deadline If you fail - find out why you failed

Bid Support Preparation CV’s - (Do you know what experiences your staff have?) Financial statements Track record - staff & establishment Remember all bids small or large are a line on your record Letters of co-operation from partners Legal agreements (Corporates struggle) General letters of reference

Central Support Structure Investment Framework Pre-award (inc Legal) Post-award (inc Finance) Partnership Engagement

In summary Long-term engagement, of capable individuals, who have the capacity and capability but more importantly the philosophy to engage in shared activity at a European level – Supported by a formulated support structure capable of road-mapping and overseeing partnership engagement.

Thank You