Government announces plans to increase UK businesses’ participation in Horizon Europe innovation funding programme
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Posted: Tue 31st Dec 2024
The government has said it will make new efforts in 2025 to increase the number of UK researchers, innovators and businesses accessing the £80 billion Horizon Europe innovation grants scheme.
The UK left Horizon after Brexit but following negotiations it rejoined the programme as an associate member in December 2023.
The initiative provides grants for collaboration between research institutions and innovative businesses in key sectors such as healthcare and artificial intelligence (AI).
Under Horizon 2020, the programme which ran before Horizon Europe, UK researchers and innovators received around €7.5 billion, 12% of the total available funds.
In 2025, the government said it will work on increasing UK businesses' participation. Activities will include Horizon Europe roadshows, and Innovate UK taking delegations of British business people and researchers to Italy, Germany and Spain to network with potential R&D partners, and work together on how to build the best possible bids for Horizon funding.
There will also be a "renewed PR blitz" with marketing activity on LinkedIn, podcasts and other channels.
In addition, the government reminded businesses of the grants of up to £700 that are available to help cover the cost of attending R&D events across Europe.
Science and technology secretary Peter Kyle said:
"Everyone knew what a big job we had on our hands to restore the UK's place as the natural R&D partner to our neighbours, when we associated to Horizon a year ago. But the brilliance of our scientists and businesses was never in doubt, and the green shoots of recovery are breaking through.
"In 2025, it really is now or never to truly reap the benefits of Horizon association. This year we will pull every lever at our disposal to help Britain's innovators seize the opportunities for funding and collaboration that are open to them."
How to apply for Horizon Europe grants
Support on how to apply is on Innovate UK's website.
UK Research and Innovation hosts regular events that highlight the opportunities on offer and the application process.
Find Horizon Europe funding open to UK-based applicants using the European Commission's funding and tender opportunities portal.
More information on how to submit applications is on the European Commission's website.
Get advice on accessing grants at StartUp Show on 25 January
How to get grants and other funding is one of the subjects covered on the Show Me The Money stage at Enterprise Nation's StartUp Show in London on 25 January. Find out more and book tickets.