Applying for European Union (EU) funding can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, it becomes a rewarding journey. The European Research Executive Agency (REA) offers valuable insights to ensure applicants are well-prepared at every step. Here are six crucial things to know before diving into the world of EU funding:
1. Who Can Apply?
EU funding is designed for collaborative efforts, requiring a team of at least three partner organisations from different EU or Horizon Europe Associated Countries. One of these partners must hail from an EU country. The list of Participating Countries in Horizon Europe serves as a handy reference to confirm partner eligibility. Depending on the specific call, applicants should include diverse stakeholders such as universities, SMEs, NGOs, and law enforcement agencies. Some calls even necessitate a multi-actor approach, emphasising the involvement of various stakeholders.
Find out more about who should apply on the REA website.
2. Join the Info Days
Participating in Horizon Europe Info Days is a golden opportunity to delve into the topics earmarked for funding. These events, coupled with Brokerage Events, offer a chance to network and form or join a consortium for EU funding applications. REA organises Info Days covering specific Horizon Europe topics, and attendance or viewing of recordings is highly encouraged.
Stay updated on upcoming Info Days through the REA events calendar and register to attend or watch recordings.
3. Discover the DOs and DON’Ts
Crafting a successful project proposal demands meticulous planning, accurate budgeting, and seamless collaboration. REA provides a comprehensive list of Dos and Don’ts to guide applicants in preparing a high-quality proposal. Avoiding common mistakes is essential for a smooth application process.
Check out the Dos and Don’ts on the REA website.
4. Follow Open Science Principles
Open Science is a cornerstone of research under Horizon Europe, emphasising the early and wide dissemination of knowledge, results, and tools. Compliance with open access and open data principles is mandatory. EU-funded project data must adhere to the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Re-usable).
Read the Q&A page on Open Science for guidance on complying with open access, open data, and Intellectual Property Rights.
5. Support Gender Equality
Gender Equality is not just a consideration but a ranking criterion in Horizon Europe. Gender Equality Plans are mandatory for higher education establishments, research organisations, and public bodies applying for the program. Integrating gender aspects is now a requirement in all research and innovation projects unless explicitly specified otherwise.
Access the information package and Q&A series on gender equality to align with Horizon Europe funding principles.
6. Plan the 3 Essentials: Communication, Dissemination, and Exploitation
Visibility is key to the success of EU-funded projects. Communication activities inform and promote project activities and results, while dissemination and exploitation activities make knowledge publicly available and facilitate concrete utilisation of results. Compliance with these activities is a legal obligation under the grant agreement.
Plan your Communication, Dissemination, and Exploitation activities in line with your grant agreement obligations.
For those seeking more information, stay updated on upcoming funding opportunities, timelines, specific advice, news, and events in the Research and Innovation world by visiting the REA website. The path to EU funding becomes more manageable with the guidance provided by the European Research Executive Agency, or just simply contact us, and we will guide you all the way through the process.