Your weekly digest of policy news, funding competitions, and calls for evidence.
What’s been in the news?
World access to new vaccines and treatments
On the 24th April, countries from around the world agreed to join the UK in its pledge to ensure that access to successful coronavirus vaccines, treatments, and technologies would be made available to everyone. This new commitment, known as ‘COV-access agreement,’ aims to boost the global supply of a vaccine, once one has been approved, ensuring that the most vulnerable communities will recieve the appropriate treatment to prevent a second wave of disease.
International Development Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan said, 'British expertise and funding is already leading efforts to find a coronavirus vaccine and treatments, which will save lives in the UK and around the world.’
A new partnership in the EU’s next research and innovation programme
Research missions and new industrial partnerships were to be launched in Horizon Europe in January 2021, but the current pandemic has shifted investment priorities and escalated concerns regarding Europe’s pandemic preparedness. In light of this the EU is now considering adding a new industrial research partnership on pandemic preparedness and societal resilience.
A new budget proposal is expected to be prepared allowing the launch of new missions that can contribute to the post-coronavirus economic recovery and to boost responses to future pandemics.
Commissioner Maryia Gabriel said, 'Research and innovation should and will be key to ensure sustainable and inclusive recovery.’
COVID-19: Roundup 24 April
As Covid-19 continues to spread across the globe, we round up some of the innovative steps being taken by businesses in the pharmaceutical and chemical sector to aid those on the frontline of this global crisis.
Read more here.
Deadline: 08 May 2020
Deadline: 01 May 2020
Apply for a share of £2 million for innovative projects that enhance productivity.
Apply for a share of up to £5 million to fund an innovation project.
Deadline: 13 May 2020
Apply for funding in innovation projects across 3 streams.
Deadline: 13 May 2020
UK businesses can apply for up to £5.8 million to work on a digital security by design demonstrate project.