SNOWMAN is operating under the "virtual common pot" or "national contributions" model [further details regarding the differences between the funding models used for the ERA-Nets in general can be found in the glossary].

SNOWMAN projects will be the result of coordination of funding between the partner countries - they will not result in the transfer of funds from one partner country to another. Consequently, funding of SNOWMAN research will be managed using contracts between funders and researchers in each country, the contracts being offered in a coordinated way. The relationships between the funders and researchers are shown in the following diagram:

This approach to funding and contracting has the following characteristics, which applicants need to understand:

1. Contractual relationships are established between the researchers and funders within each country, using standard contract models which will be supplemented by extra 'SNOWMAN conditions'.
2. The funders have signed an agreement to work together in this way for the duration of the funded research.
3. The researchers are bound by a consortium agreement which ensures that they are jointly responsible for the delivery of the work.