SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCE NEW SEED FUNDING

Scottish Government Announces New Funding to Seed International Collaborative Research with Europe.

The Scottish Government has announced a new funding initiative aimed at supporting Scottish Higher Education Institutions in their engagement with Europe. Scotland remains firmly committed to fostering and strengthening collaborations with European partners, recognizing the importance of international cooperation in driving economic growth and societal impact on global challenges.

The new fund, called the International Collaboration Fund, will provide vital support to researchers across Scotland, enabling them to establish bilateral exchanges with counterparts throughout Europe. The funding will also facilitate preparatory activities that enhance Scotland’s participation in Horizon Europe, the European Union’s key funding programme for research and innovation.

This initiative demonstrates Scotland’s dedication to maintaining strong ties with Europe, forging new partnerships, and expanding existing collaborations that contribute to global missions, economic development, and social advancement.

Higher and Further Education Minister Graeme Dey said:

“It is important to support Scotland’s world-class universities and research institutions to work alongside with partners across the Europe in tackling some of the most pressing global challenges.

Horizon Europe opens up significant opportunities for the research sector. The new International Collaboration Fund is intended to strengthen and foster new international partnerships that capitalise on these opportunities.”

Utilizing the collective strength of Research Innovation Scotland, which brings together research pools, innovation centres, Interface, and research networks, the fund will be distributed to research projects spanning all academic disciplines.

The International Collaboration Fund opens on the 18th of September 2024, with the deadline for applications set for 21st of October 2024. Researchers across Scotland are encouraged to apply and seize the opportunity to deepen their engagement with Europe, further positioning Scotland as a leader in global research and innovation. Find out more via our website.