How to apply to Horizon Europe

From: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Learn how to apply to Horizon Europe, including eligibility criteria, the application process, and important timelines.

On this page

• Eligibility criteria
• Application process for Pillar 2
• Timelines
• Evaluation and funding

Eligibility criteria

Eligibility criteria depends on the pillar.

Under Pillar 1, researchers can apply for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) to further their doctoral education or postdoctoral training. They can also apply for European Research Council (ERC) grants to run research projects based in Europe.

Under Pillar 2, Canadian legal entities engaging in breakthrough research projects can be partners in research consortia that submit collaborative research proposals. Legal entities includes:

• academics
• industrial researchers
• small- to medium-sized enterprises
• non-profit and charity sector entities
• other research and innovation actors in Canada

All Pillar 2 applications must involve projects developed by a consortium (partnership of organizations across different nations, including a European Member State and associated country).

Under Pillar 3, Canadians with start-ups or small- or medium-sized enterprises in Europe can apply for funding from the European Innovation Council.

Application process for Pillar 2

As Canadian institutions can now apply as fully fledged members of consortia under Pillar 2, this page provides an in-depth look at the application process for Pillar 2 funding.

• Check your eligibility: make sure you can participate as a partner.
• Find a suitable call for proposal: Find relevant calls for proposals related to your research/innovation: Funding & tenders.
• Find partners for your consortia: Must be from at least three different EU Member States or associated countries, from Horizon Europe's Partner database. Always review the eligibility criteria of the calls for proposals, as they may have additional requirements.
• Create an EU account: You must register for an account to access the Portal. This allows you to participate in a call for proposals or tenders with eSubmission.
• Register your organization: Your organization will need a nine-digit Participant Identification Code (PIC) as a unique identifier. Your organization may already be registered.
• Submit your proposal: Together with your consortium partners, choose a lead organization to select your topic and go to the Submission Service section of the topic page. Make sure your lead organization selects the appropriate action before drafting a proposal. The link to the submission system is available if the status of the call is "open." You must be logged into your EU account.
• Follow up on your proposal: An evaluation committee with independent experts will review the proposals. Applicants then receive a letter with the outcome of their proposal and an evaluation report within 6 months of the call deadline.

Consult our applicant resources to find guidance, links, and frequently asked questions about applying to Horizon Europe.

Timelines

Each cluster under Pillar 2 launches project calls based on a pre-established work program. Most work programs publish calls for proposals every two years. These calls include:

• detailed information on the type of funding available
• any eligibility conditions or restrictions
• due dates
• timelines

Evaluation and funding

Each program has its own selection criteria and evaluation process, which are explained in each call for proposals. Proposals are reviewed by external experts appointed by the European Commission. Funds are awarded based on merit.

Horizon Europe is funded through contributions from EU member states and associated countries. Canadian researchers and innovators can apply to active and upcoming Horizon Europe Pillar 2 calls. These applications will be reviewed and awarded by the European Commission.

Horizon Europe is funded through contributions from EU member states and associated countries.

Each Horizon Europe funding call has its own budget and guidelines. Recipients must decide how to allocate funds among consortia partners. Overall funding amounts vary by project.

Generally, direct costs are financed at a rate of 60% to 100%. Indirect costs (e.g. costs related to administration, communication, infrastructure, and office supplies) are reimbursed at a flat rate of 25% of eligible direct costs.

The overall project proposal success rate in 2022 was 16%, while Canada's national success rate was 18%. Project results and performance metrics are available on the Horizon Europe Dashboard.