[OSM-talk] 13.95 mio euro for Geographic Information R&D

[Richard HARDWICK]

The European Commission has just released advance copy of the 'eContentplus' 
programme of R&D (*1*).

The text (*2*) includes 'Best practice networks for geographic information' with 
Objective: 'Increase the reuse of geographic information by improving the 
interoperability of spatial data sets and services. Identify issues and 
implement solutions for reducing the barriers to interoperability of spatial 
data sets and services related to one or more of the specific themes enumerated 
in annexes IIII of the INSPIRE directive ...'.  and Expected results:  'Spatial 
information is aggregated to cover a significant part of Europe and data are 
accessible in a seamless way across borders in multiple languages, facilitating 
its re-use. Consensus is built on the strategy for improving the 
interoperability of spatial data sets and services and on further concrete 
actions required. A sustainable network of stakeholders is established around 
the best practice networks, which promotes dialogue and exchanges of information 
and best practice between stakeholders in view of implementing common solutions 
across Europe'. So far as I understand the text, the E.C. contribution for this 
work will be 13.95 million euro

The definitive version of the text is due to be published June 2007. Provisional 
deadline for receipt of proposals is 4 October 2007.

fwiw, I have signed on to attend the central Information Day - "presenting 
objectives of the target areas for 2007 and providing details on how to submit a 
proposal" (Luxembourg Thursday, 24 May 2007). Anyone else going?

Richard Hardwick

N.B. also that E.C. will engage expert 'reviewers' of submitted projects. E.C. 
will pay reviewers 450 euro per day, plus subsistence, plus travel expenses.

*1* 
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/activities/econtentplus/calls/proposals/index_en.htm
*2* 
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/activities/econtentplus/docs/call_2007/draft_ecp_2007_workprogramme.pdf