Horizon Europe is the European Union framework programme for research and innovation for the 2021–2027 period. Building on its predecessor, Horizon 2020, it stands as the EU's largest funding initiative for science, technological development, and innovation, equipped with a budget exceeding €95 billion to address major global challenges.
Primary Objectives of Horizon Europe (FP9)
- Reinforcing the EU's scientific and technological foundation.
- Enhancing the global competitiveness of European industry.
- Addressing vital societal priorities, including climate change, public health, digitalisation, energy, and sustainable growth.
- Encouraging cross-border cooperation among nations, businesses, research centers, and universities.
Structure of the Horizon Europe Programme
Pillar I: Excellent Science
The initial pillar allocates funding to frontier basic research, state-of-the-art research infrastructures, and mobility opportunities for researchers:
- European Research Council (ERC) – grants individual funding to leading scientists across various stages of their careers.
- Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) – drives international mobility and professional growth for research personnel.
- Research Infrastructures.
Pillar II: Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness
Alongside Joint Research Centres, this second pillar brings together six thematic clusters dedicated to tackling major global issues:
- Health,
- Culture,
- Security,
- Digitalisation,
- Climate,
- Bioeconomy.
Pillar III: Innovative Europe
Aims at driving the practical application and market deployment of research findings:
- Assists pioneering start-ups and commercial entities (for instance, through the European Innovation Council – EIC).
- Encompasses the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) as well as European innovation ecosystems.
Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area
This component is essential for bridging gaps in research and innovation capabilities among EU member countries:
- Widening participation and expanding scientific excellence.
- Reforming and upgrading the overarching European research and innovation system.
The subsequent EU research and innovation framework programme following Horizon Europe is referred to as FP10 (10th Framework Programme). Slated to commence in 2028, its funding target is projected to double the budget of the active programme.
