Along with the new Resaerch programme for for the research fund for coal and steel, the European Commission has created an open and continuous call for proposals. Unless otherwise specified, the deadline for submission of proposals will be the 15th September of each year.

For the Calls for Proposals concerning the Research programme for the research fund for coal and steel, the Commission shall establish an information package setting-out the detailed rules for participation. The information pack will contain the methods of managing proposals and projects, application forms, rules for the submission of proposals, model grant agreements, eligible costs, the maximum financial contribution allowable, methods of payment and the annual priority objectives of the Research Programme. The information package will be made public on the Community Research and Development Information Service (CORDIS) or corresponding website.

Each proposal shall include a detailed description of the proposed project and contain full information on objectives, partnerships, including the precise role of each partner, management structure, anticipated results, expected applications and an assessment of anticipated industrial, economic, social and environmental benefits.

The proposed total cost and its breakdown shall be realistic and effective, and the project shall be expected to produce a favourable cost/benefit ratio. The eligible costs shall consist of the following:

• Equipment costs.
• Staff costs.
• Operating costs.
• Indirect costs.

The Commission shall carry out a monitoring exercise of the Research Programme, including an assessment of the expected benefits. A report on that exercise shall be issued by the end of 2013, and thereafter every seven years.