COST: Europe's most empowering research programme Strengthening science and innovation through research networking

Founded in 1971, COST is an intergovernmental framework for cooperation in science and technology (S&T).

As defined in the COST Mission statement, COST provides networking opportunities for researchers and innovators in order to strengthen Europes capacity to address scientific, technological and societal challenges.

To do so, COST funds bottomup, excellence-driven, open and inclusive networks for peaceful purposes in all areas of science and technology. According to COST Vision statement, COST is aiming at becoming the leading open networking tool in the ERA.

In order to continue to pursue its Mission and Vision, the COST Strategic Plan defines three strategic priorities for the remaining part of Horizon 2020 and in Horizon Europe: - Promoting and Spreading Excellence - Fostering interdisciplinary research for breakthrough science - Empowering and retaining young researchers and innovators To implement those strategic priorities, COST focuses its efforts on strengthening its core business and implementing a range of complementary activities.

The COST Association is the beneficiary of a Coordination and Support Action (CSA) following the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2021-22.

The COST Association is an AISBL under the Belgian law with an integrated governance, management and implementation functions, creating the base for a responsible and accountable organisation where the COST Full Members have direct control.

The legal and financial frame for the COST Association operations is provided via a Framework Partnership Agreement (FPA) and subsequent Specific Grant Agreements (SGAs).

An overall budget of EUR 153 million was foreseen for the first SGA1 for a duration of 36 months, 1 November 2021 to 31 October 2024.