Calls for VM grants will support applicants for strengthening the existing networks by allowing scientists to foster collaboration in a virtual setting, exchange knowledge, learn new techniques, disseminate the Action results, etc.

Applications will be submitted in e-COST and include the following information:

• The main objective of the VM Grant.
• Working Plan: Description of the collaborative initiative to be implemented.
• Plan for Participation: List of participants in the collaborative initiative (short description of their expertise and contribution).

• Main expected outputs: results and contribution to the progress towards the MoU objectives (either research coordination and/or capacity building objectives can be tackled) and delivery of the MoU objectives.
• Contribution to the COST Action Strategy: How will Virtual Mobility contribute to the COST Excellence and Inclusiveness Policy and plans for stakeholder engagement and promoting the participation of researchers from NNC and IPC (COST Global Networking) and to the approved virtual networking strategy.

Eligible activities should be aimed at (but not limited to):

• Supporting the harmonization and standardization of methods and procedures within the Action networking activities.
• Supporting the implementation of research-related activities that do not necessarily require in-person presence.
• The virtual mentoring scheme, with a special focus on activities and exchanges that can generate capacity building and new skills, particularly for ECI researchers (e.g. managerial skills, methodological skills, communication skills, etc.).
• Content preparation and coordination of science communication activities, including symposia, courses, and workshops, coordinated by experts from ENOVAT useful for other members and scientists worldwide interested in a specific field of knowledge. These activities will have an international impact particularly in low- and middle incomes countries

Proposals should detail the budget for performing the activities, up to the maximum of 1,500 EUR per proposal.

A proposal template is available here and calls will be pre-announced and open for 30 days for receiving proposals.

Applications will be evaluated using a rubric by a selection committee composed of active members of the Core Group Management Committee in ENOVAT, that includes the following positions in ENOVAT:

1. Chair
2. Vice-chair
3. STSM coordinator
4. Science Communication Manager
5. WG5 leader
6. VNSM will act as secretary

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Virtual activities must align with the values of COST and the topic and objectives of ENOVAT.
• Virtual activities organizers need to demonstrate commitment and motivation.
• Virtual activities need to show potential to broaden diverse participation in ENOVAT topics, with a special focus on activities and exchanges that can generate capacity building and new skills, particularly for ECIs, NNC, and IPC researchers.
• Virtual activities organizers need to commit to making materials open access.
• Virtual activities organizers commit to present a report to the Action Chair/ the VNS Manager and the Science Officer of ENOVAT including:
  • Description of the outcomes and achieved outputs (including any specific MoU deliverables, or publications resulting from the Virtual Mobility).
  • Description of the benefits to the COST Action Strategy (what and how).
  • Description of the virtual collaboration (including constructive reflection on activities undertaken, identified successful practices, and lessons learned). need to have a code of conduct developed or provide concrete plans for creating one.

More info is available in the ENOVAT Strategy on Virtual Networking.

More info about VNMG here and in the FAQs.