'Framework programmes have been the main financial tools through which the European Union supports research and development activities. Based on the Framework Agreement signed between European Commission and Turkey on 14.05.2004 (Turkish law: 5303), Turkey participates in Framework Programs as an associated country, on an equal footing with EU member states. Horizon 2020, is the eighth phase of the Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development funding programmes created by the European Union in order to support and encourage research in the European Research Area. It implements Europe 2020 and Innovation Union strategies. The programme runs from 2014 until 2020 and provides an estimated €80 billion of funding.
