Finland, with the help of this programme, hopes to gain a more substantial role in the international research community on Arctic issues. With a long term strategic commitment to the agenda and as an output by securing a more visible role in International academic scene with more focused academic contributions to science and infrastructure. This programme also hopes to tackle the fragmentation of research capacity and infrastructure.

The four main programme themes selected are: Good-quality life in the North, Economic activity and infrastructure in Arctic circumstances, and the northern climate and environment and Arctic policy

The Programme will already have a targeted call on the topic of "Sustainable economy and infrastructure in Arctic conditions" in November 2013. The call opens on 19 November, 2013 and closes on 18 December 2013. http://www.aka.fi/Tiedostot/Hakuilmoitukset/Ylimaarainen_hakuilmoitus_2013_031013_en.pdf

Invitations for the full call will be announced February 2014, with deadline in April 2014. Decisions on funding will be made by Dec 2014. Funding starts in January 2015.