The Capacities programme of the Seventh European Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (FP7) aims to enhance the research and innovation capacities in Europe and ensure their optimal use. It draws on a budget of €4 billion. The programme supports activities in four areas:

• Research infrastructures: creation of research infrastructures and improved access to existing infrastructures
• Research for the benefit of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): support for SMEs aiming to innovate and/or to outsource their research activities
• Regions of knowledge and support to research-driven regional clusters: support for regional groupings focused on research — creation of regional clusters
• Research potential of convergence regions: unlocking the research potential of the convergence regions and the outermost regions of the European Union
• Science in society: integration of science and technology in European society — dialogue between the scientific community and society 
• Coherent development of research policies: coordination of national research policies
• International cooperation: implementation of activities in support of international cooperation

The programme is open to a diverse range of participants: local and national authorities, research organisations, SMEs.

The programme is implemented through various types of project: coordination and support actions, financial aid encouraging research for the benefit of specific target groups, initiatives funded under article 185 (which notably include the Eurostars initiative).

To participate in one of these activities, applicants must respond to a call for project proposals. The participation rules are specified for each call.