Transfers in the UoH-sector have been on the increase for several years, and the ministry has frequently stated that this is an issue that must be dealt with. The UiB estimates that 272 million Norwegian crowns will be transferred from 2006 to 2007, and much of this is due to delayed building activity.  The institutes have discussed various initiatives to help solve the problem, and the University Board has now decided to use some of this money to help strengthen MNT-subjects, and milieus that gained distinction during last years CoE rounds.

It is yet to be decided which initiatives will receive support regarding the fields of mathematics and technology.  This will be decided after consultation with the faculties.  Deputy Director Randi Taxt, of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, says that projects are queuing up.

The new Centre of Excellence, the Centre for geo-biosphere research: Deep seafloor, deep biosphere & roots of life, will be a separate economic unit at the faculty.

As for the four CoE finalists that were not selected, but that will now receive central funding, it will be a requirement that the faculties must also contribute.

All received a top mark of 7 from to panels of experts, whilst the third gave a 6. The board proposal points out that the decision that separates success from failure is a marginal one.