Horizon Europe is one of the most ambitious research and innovation programmes ever launched by the European Union. With a significant budget earmarked for research and innovation, it aims to foster a greener, more digital, and more resilient Europe. If you’re considering submitting a proposal to Horizon Europe, it’s crucial to understand the ins and outs of the application process.
Here are the essential steps to prepare a successful grant application proposal:
1. Understand Horizon Europe’s Objectives and Priorities
Before diving into the application, familiarise yourself with the overall objectives and priorities of Horizon Europe. The programme is structured around various clusters, such as health, culture, and digital. Ensure your project aligns with one or more of these areas. The programme prioritizes interdisciplinary research, fostering collaboration between sectors to find holistic solutions to pressing global issues. Beyond merely funding research, Horizon Europe seeks to bridge the gap between science, policy, and citizens, ensuring that innovations benefit society at large. As applicants prepare proposals, it’s imperative to align with these overarching objectives, ensuring that their contributions resonate with the broader ambitions of a united, forward-looking Europe.
2. Identify the Right Call for Proposals
Horizon Europe regularly publishes calls for proposals in various areas. Browse through the available calls, and identify the one that best matches your research or innovation idea. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before proceeding. You can use GetGrant Service to find the required call with the support of advanced AI algorithms. Or you can try to find the necessary call on the official website of the Funding & Tenders Opportunities Portal using this LINK.
3. Gather a Strong Consortium
Horizon Europe projects often involve collaboration between entities from different European countries. Assemble a consortium of partners who bring complementary skills, knowledge, and expertise to the table. A diverse and well-balanced team can significantly enhance the quality of your proposal.
- Assembling a dynamic consortium is vital for a compelling Horizon Europe application. Here are condensed recommendations:
- Self-Evaluation: Determine your project’s skill needs, identifying gaps.
- Networking: Engage in industry forums and use Horizon Europe’s National Contact Points (NCPs) for valuable connections.
- Online Platforms: Leverage the Funding & Tenders Portal’s Partner Search to identify potential collaborators.
- Seek Expertise: Opt for partners with relevant experience, particularly in EU projects.
- Geographic Inclusion: Ensure your consortium represents a wide range of European regions for a comprehensive perspective.
- Sector Representation: Aim for a balanced mix from academia, industry, NGOs, and other sectors.
- Check Compatibility: Confirm all partners meet Horizon Europe’s criteria.
- Unify Vision: Arrange preliminary meetings to ensure a cohesive consortium objective.
- Assign Roles: Designate clear roles and responsibilities for each member.
- Set Guidelines: Think about drafting an initial consortium agreement for clarity and direction.
5. Develop a Clear and Innovative Project Idea
The heart of your application is your project idea. Ensure it’s innovative, feasible, and addresses a pressing challenge or opportunity in your chosen field. Clearly articulate the objectives, expected outcomes, and the impact your project will have.
5. Draft a Detailed Work Plan
Break down your project into work packages, tasks, and deliverables. Define clear milestones and timelines. This will not only provide a roadmap for your consortium but also demonstrate to evaluators that you have a well-thought-out plan in place.
6. Budget Appropriately
Draft a detailed budget that covers all aspects of your project, from personnel costs to equipment and travel. Ensure that the budget aligns with the work plan and is justifiable. Remember, Horizon Europe has specific rules regarding eligible costs; familiarize yourself with them.
7. Address Ethical Considerations
If your project involves human participants, data privacy, or other ethical considerations, ensure you address them comprehensively. Outline the measures you will take to ensure ethical standards are upheld throughout the project.
8. Engage Stakeholders and End-users
If applicable, engage with potential end-users or stakeholders of your project’s results. Their input can provide valuable insights and ensure that the project’s outcomes meet real-world needs.
9. Proofread and Review
Before submitting, have multiple team members review the proposal for clarity, coherence, and compliance with the call’s requirements. A well-written proposal can make a significant difference in the evaluation process.
10. Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure you submit your proposal before the deadline stated in the call. Late submissions are generally not considered. Use the European Commission’s Funding & Tenders Portal for submission.
Applying for Horizon Europe funding can be competitive, but with careful planning, a strong consortium, and a compelling project idea, you can increase your chances of success. Take the time to understand the programme’s nuances and requirements, and leverage the wealth of resources and guidance provided by the European Commission. Best of luck with your application!