Free Framework Programme training sessions for SMEs - Aalborg, 24-25 November - Lefkosia, 4-5 December

Brussels, 3 November 2006

If you are an SME currently managing a Framework Programme R&D project and you would like to learn best practices and tips to run and exploit successful projects, then make sure you register to attend the next free of charge SME-to-LEAD training sessions taking place in Aalborg, Denmark, on 24 and 25 of November and in Lefkosia, Cyprus, on 4 and 5 of December 2006.

SME to LEAD is an EC funded specific Support Action under the "Stepping up Economic and Technological Intelligence" (ETI) Scheme aiming at stimulating SME participation in FP.

The objective of the SMEtoLEAD initiative is to train SMEs to be successful coordinators of European Commission Framework Programme (FP) Projects.

Being coordinator of an FP project involves taking charge of many different activities in addition to the actual project work. These activities include;
- Preparation of the project proposal
- Establishing the project consortium
- Negotiating the contract with the EC
- Managing a consortium of many organisations coming from various European countries
- Being responsible for the delivery of all project deliverables and reporting deadlines
- Supervising all financial management and allocation of EC contribution
- Providing as interface with relevant services at the European Commission...

The task of coordinating demands time and commitment and can quickly become an area where budgets are exceeded; and if not carefully managed can overshadow the added value and benefits of leading an FP project.

The SMEtoLEAD solution

There are available methods, best practices and tips that can make the whole journey of coordination less challenging and more enjoyable. It is just a matter of being aware of the solutions!

The 11 SMEtoLEAD partners have all extensive experience and understanding of EC framework Programmes having been involved as partners, coordinators or advisers to projects since FP2. They also work in close relationship with the European Commission and hence have a good insight into EC expectations and future plans.

Within the SMEtoLEAD initiative, complementary partners have for the first time come together to share their experience and understanding with European SMEs coordinating FP projects and ensure this knowledge transfer through a high quality coordinator training delivered - free of charge - in a series of intensive modular sessions.

The SMEtoLEAD Training offering

The training is designed to be taken sequentially, each training module addressing certain aspects of project coordination. For each module you will be presented with the relevant up-to-date information on current issues and each event will also act as a forum for the exchange of best practice ideas. SME will decide on the modules they will attend depending on previous experiences and future participation plans.

There are 3 modules of training that can be accessed.

Two training sessions are currently open for registration; please visit our www.smetolead.org website to find out more about how to benefit from the fantastic, free of charge, opportunity.

For further information visit http://www.smetolead.org/training.htm