Draft Proposals for the DARD Research Challenge Fund

The DARD Research Challenge Fund (RCF) is a key element of the DARD Evidence and Innovation Strategy, launched in July 2009, and a Foundation Initiative of the cross-departmental Regional Innovation Strategy Action Plan 2008-11.  The scheme will challenge consortia of industry and research providers to come forward with collaborative R&D projects for which DARD will provide match-funding.  

Stakeholder comments on the scheme were gathered as part of the formal and informal consultation on the Evidence and Innovation Strategy. In developing our draft proposals for the scheme we have tried, as far as possible to take on board comments received.

The development of the Challenge Fund rules is well advanced and we plan to launch the scheme in February/March 2010.    However, we would like to give interested parties a final opportunity to see the draft proposals in advance of the formal launch.

The draft proposals may be accessed as described below.  If you have any major comments/concerns on the scope and operation of the proposed Challenge Fund you should forward these to the Research Challenge Fund Team at the contact points indicated below by 5 February 2010.

Availability:

A copy of the draft proposals is available to download by following the links below or writing to:

The Research Challenge Fund Team

Room 359, Dundonald House

DARD

Upper Newtownards Road

Belfast

BT4 3SB

Tel: 028 9052 5036

Email: rcf@dardni.gov.uk