Submission of proposals is only possible in response to calls for proposals. Calls are specific instructions that are published in the Official Journal of the European Communities, outlining the timeframe within which applications will be accepted, and detailing specific requirements for that particular call. In many cases, whilst programmes may remain open for several years, the only time they can be applied to is during the calls, which have strict deadlines and are enforced to the minute.

Special information packages are issued for each call comprising documents, explanations and forms which are needed for the preparation of a proposal.

From the opening of a Call for Proposals to the closing date for applications, it usually takes a brief three months. However, the work and time required to prepare, submit and negotiate a successful application takes many more months.

Various steps of the application process, include:

• the preparatory work needed in advance of a call opening;
• the writing and submission of the application itself;
• the evaluation process and negotiation stages; and
• the successful conclusion and initial grant payments.