Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP)
The Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP) is mainly targeted at SMEs, supporting innovative activities (including eco-innovation), providing better access to financing and offering regional support services for companies.
CIP operational programmes:
1. “Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme – EIP”:
- Supports the entrepreneurial culture
- Encourages innovative activities in SMEs
- Improves access to finance for SMEs
- Supports cooperations and networks between innovative SMEs
- The initiative also includes the “eco-innovation” programme – market replication projects: Support for innovative ideas that lead to “marketable” environmentally friendly products and services
2. “Intelligent Energy Europe Programme – IEE”:
The aim of the IEE is to support the implementation of the ambitious climate and energy policy objectives of the EU as well as the more intelligent use of energy resources. To this end, the programme is intended to increase the acceptance of renewable energy sources and improve market conditions in this sector.
The IEE finances projects in certain areas such as energy efficiency (buildings, industry, electricity, etc.), renewable energy sources, transportation (bio-fuel), market development and marketing.
3. “Information and Communication Technologies Policy Support Programme – ICT-PSP”:
This programme is designed to support the widespread use of ICT-based services and the use of digital content by citizens, governments and businesses, especially SMEs, across the whole of Europe. The programme does not support research projects. It does support:
- Projects aimed at improving the efficiency and interoperability of e-government services (document management, etc.)
- Initiatives involving information and communication technologies (ICT) that serve as an instrument for accessibility as well as social and digital integration
- Information and communication technologies for future-orientated and complete health services
