The Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) is the national funding agency for industrial research and development in Austria. All FFG activities aim to strengthen Austria as a research and innovation centre on the global market and thus help to ensure the long-term availability of high quality jobs and maintain the prosperity of one of the world"s wealthiest countries. These goals reflect the statutory purpose of the FFG: "The purpose of the FFG is to promote research, technology, development and innovation for the benefit of Austria." (Sec. 3 of the FFG Act) The tasks of the FFG are stipulated follows: To manage and finance research projects in the business and science sectors, impulse programmes for the economy and research facilities, and networks fostering cooperation between science and industry. To manage cooperative programmes and projects with the EU and other European and international partners. To represent Austria"s interests at relevant European and international institutions on behalf of the Austrian government. To provide consultation and support to intensify Austria"s involvement in European programmes, especially in the EU Framework Programme for Research, Technology and Innovation and the Framework Programme for Competitiveness and Innovation. To provide support and strategy development services for decision-makers in the Austrian innovation system. To improve public awareness of the importance of R&D. To manage other promotional activities and funding programmes in the public interest.