NCPs (National Contact Points) are national structures established and financed by governments of the 28 EU member states and the states associated to the framework programme. NCPs are also established in many non-EU and non-associated countries ("third countries").
The NCPs network is the main structure to provide guidance, practical information and assistance on all aspects of participation in Horizon 2020. The type and level of services offered by NCPs may differ from country to country. In general, the following basic services are available in accordance with the NCP Guiding Principles agreed by all countries:

• Guidance on choosing relevant H2020 topics and types of action
• Advice on administrative procedures and contractual issues
• Training and assistance on proposal writing
• Distribution of documentation (forms, guidelines, manuals etc.)
• Assistance in partner search