In the framework of the final conference of the FLOW and TRACE final conference, ECF organised an inspiring workshop for its Scientists for Cycling network. Besides connecting to the main theme of the conference, congestion relief through cycling measures, the programme focused on possibilities for cycling-related research projects to obtain EU funding.

Martin Hudak from the University of Žilina started the workshop by sharing tips on how to prepare a proposal for EU research funding under the Horizon 2020 programme. He gave insights from the perspective of an academic institution, using the successful bid for the MoTiV project as a concrete example. This project, in which ECF is a partner, looks at mobility and the value of travel time. The results will be particularly useful for transport planning, transport engineers, economists and management bodies in the context of projects to improve the use of transport infrastructure.

In her presentation, Elena Angiolini from the Brussels Contact Point for EU Research and Innovation Funding, gave a more general overview over the funding possibilities under the Horizon 2020 programme and how to find the right call for projects involving research related to cycling.

Practical tips to put together a convincing project proposal came from Andy Nash, a consultant with extensive experience in the sector and who was involved in developing the FLOW project proposal. His main advice: Choose an idea that you would like to implement and then find the fitting call!

The workshop concluded with research linked to the FLOW and TRACE final conference. Frederic Rudolph from the Wuppertal Institute, a research centre that links ecological issues with those of an economic and social transformation, presented his findings on the policy measures that are most effective for promoting the use of e-bikes and reducing congestion.

The presentations and the questions from the audience showed that there still is a huge potential for cycling researchers to apply for EU research funding. ECF will continue to support them in this endeavour. For an overview of relevant calls in the Horizon 2020 work programme for 2018 to 2020, please have a look here. You can find current calls published on the Horizon 2020 participant portal.

At ECF, we are always very happy to hear about your project ideas for research involving cycling. If you have an idea, or would like to have more information, please contact our Senior Project Officer Carolien Ruebens.

You can find the presentations from the workshop here:

• Andrew Nash, Crowdsourced Transport: Idea, Call, Team. Notes for the perfect pitch.
• Elena Angiolini, Brussels Region National Contact Point for EU Research + Innovation Funding: Introduction to Horizon 2020 funding opportunities.
• Dr. Martin Hudak, University of Žilina: How to prepare a successful Horizon 2020 application
• Frederic Rudolph, Wuppertal Institute: Policy measures for the use of e-bikes and their environmental potential
• Mathieu Strale, Université Libre de Bruxelles: The "RER-Velo/Fiets GEN" - Brussels fast cycling route network