The network of National Contact Points (NCPs) is the main structure to provide guidance, practical information and assistance on all aspects of participation in Horizon 2020, as explained in his dedicated EC Participant portal webpage, which you can find at the end of this article.
What is the NCP network?
NCPs are national structures established and financed by governments of the 28 EU member states and the states associated to the framework programme. NCPs give personalised support on the spot and in applicants' own languages. The NCP systems can vary from one country to another from highly centralised to decentralised networks, and a number of very different actors, from ministries to universities, research centres and special agencies to private consulting companies.
NCPs are also established in many non-EU and non-associated countries ("third countries").
NCP Services
As the NCPs are national structures, the type and level of services offered may differ from country to country. In general, the following basic services are available in accordance with the NCP Guiding Principles agreed by all countries:
- Guidance on choosing relevant H2020 topics and types of action
- Advice on administrative procedures and contractual issues
- Training and assistance on proposal writing
- Distribution of documentation (forms, guidelines, manuals etc.)
- Assistance in partner search
Search for your NCP
Find the contact details of your national H2020 National Contact Point or those of your potential partner's country. You can search for NCPs in Member States, Associated Countries and third countries. You can also search for NCPs by thematic areas or functions; for instance, you can look for an NCP who is specialised in Marie Curie actions. Hover over the NCP functions to view the explanation of their specific responsibilities.
The third country NCPs listed below were nominated in the context of the Seventh Framework Programme. This list will be progressively updated for Horizon 2020, as necessary.
Please visit the NCPs webpage in the Participant Portal to proceed.
