What are Co-programmed Partnerships?
Co-programmed Partnerships are one of the three main categories of European partnerships implemented mainly within the Horizon Europe framework program for research and innovation. They serve as a mechanism for strategic cooperation between the European Commission and private or public partners, including industrial associations, research organizations, and civil society representatives.
These partnerships are formally established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or other contractual arrangements. This document outlines common objectives, mutual commitments, and key performance indicators.
How does this partnership model work?
The foundation of their operation is the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA). Based on this agenda, tasks and financial contributions are distributed as follows:
- Role of the European Commission: The Commission fulfills its obligations through the standard Horizon Europe work programs. It launches regular calls for proposals that directly align with the shared agenda.
- Role of partners: Partners commit to carrying out their own activities and investments to complement EU funding and achieve joint goals. These partner activities do not receive direct funding from the EU budget.
Importance for grant applicants
For businesses, research institutions, and other prospective applicants for European grants, the presence of Co-programmed Partnerships brings several key aspects:
- Standard administrative procedures: Applications for funding under these partnerships are submitted through the standard route via the European Commission's Funding & Tenders Portal and follow the general regulations of Horizon Europe.
- Strategic alignment: Call topics closely reflect the requirements defined by industry and research stakeholders in the agreement. Submitted projects must clearly contribute to the targets outlined in the SRIA.
- Synergies and networking: Participation in projects under these partnerships frequently facilitates valuable connections with leading European stakeholders within the sector.
Comparison with other partnership types
Within EU programs, Co-programmed Partnerships differ from two other structural forms:
- Co-funded Partnerships: Involve primarily EU Member States and national funding agencies that combine national resources with an EU financial contribution.
- Institutionalised Partnerships: Require the establishment of dedicated legal entities (Joint Undertakings pursuant to Article 187 TFEU) equipped with their own administrative and financial management structures.
