The Science Shop model of participatory research and innovation has been successful in bringing students, researchers and civil society together towards tackling real issues at the local and regional levels.

This topic will provide support to universities, and other research performers, to establish or strengthen science shops throughout Europe, and beyond and seeks to establish linkages with relevant international initiatives (e.g.: UNESCO Community-based research, Civic Universities, etc.). The impact of the research will promote growth and capacity building of science shops for socially responsible community-based research and citizen science. At the same time it will connect with relevant international initiatives so as to ensure mutual learning across borders. 

Proposals in line with the strategy for EU international cooperation in research and innovation (COM(2012) 497), international cooperation are encouraged.