Since the beginning of 2017, CFI UL has been acting as coordinator of the Horizon 2020 program CAMART² - the Excellence Centre of Advanced Material Research and Technology Transfer.
The objective of CAMART² is defined in the field of "Smart Materials, Technology and Engineering Systems" of the Latvian Smart Specialization Strategy (RIS3) and is a transformation of the country's economy with the aim to increase economy’s scientific capacity by investing in research, innovation and promotion activities.
The issue of establishment and development of research and innovations (R&I) centers of excellence is still relevant, as the scientific excellence of the Latvian R&D system is still insufficient for rapid smart growth, and it is directly related to the low R&D investment, which was 0.44 - 0.69% of GDP in the 2014-2020 planning period. This investment significantly left behind the national target 1.5% of GDP.
CAMART2 and BBCE (coordinator RTU) both established in the 2014-2020 planning period are mentioned as positive examples in the development of RIS3 research and innovation centers of excellence in the EU Funds Operational Program for 2021-2027, which is planned to be submitted to the European Commission for approval in early 2021. The Operational Program has been developed on the basis of the economic needs and tasks identified in the National Development Plan for 2021–2027.
Investments in research and innovation are planned by attracting ERDF and ESF + funding for synergies with R&D investments with important EU programs such as Horizon Europe, Digital Europe, Erasmus + and InvestEU.
To achieve the goals, investments will focus on human capital development, including doctoral and postdoctoral research, increasing the number of researchers, practical research, and strengthening cooperation with industry in R&D, scientific excellence and the international competitiveness of businesses.
