The Commission is investing over €7.3 billion in its Horizon Europe programme to strengthen Europe’s research and innovation engine. The investment aims to drive cutting-edge science, accelerate the EU's green and digital transitions, and enhance Europe's competitiveness.

The new programme aspires to help attract and retain the best researchers in Europe and will offer targeted support to those affected by war and displacement. As part of these efforts, the Commission is updating the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) 2023-25 work programme part to offer more support for Ukrainian scientists and to launch a new MSCA ‘Choose Europe for Science’ pilot project, which will offer more support and opportunities for early-career researchers, including competitive allowances and longer contracts. This pilot is part of a €500 million package for 2025–2027 and the wider ‘Choose Europe' initiative to make Europe a magnet for researchers, presented by President von der Leyen last week. The initiative focuses on three goals: keeping science free and open, investing in talent, and accelerating innovation in Europe.

Horizon Europe 2025 highlights:

1. Delivering on EU priorities: funding will support research and innovation in key areas - from boosting competitiveness, defence and security to improving citizens' lives. Over €663 million is allocated to pressing issues, from combating organised crime to cutting emissions and energy costs.
2. Accelerating climate and digital goals: the EU is directing 35% of Horizon Europe funding towards climate goals. This includes €1.14 billion for climate, energy and transport projects, and €833 million for food, bioeconomy, natural resources, agriculture and environment. Digital innovation is another priority, with 36% of the budget, around €1.6 billion, supporting the development of artificial intelligence and advanced digital solutions.
3. Automotive research and innovation: the 2025 programme supports the transition of the automotive industry towards cleaner, smarter, and more competitive solutions. It supports the development of next-generation battery electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing techniques for automotive components, vehicle digitalisation, cybersecurity, and circular economy practices. Additionally, it promotes the creation of smart, resilient mobility systems.
4. Simplifying application: the Commission is making the programme more accessible through simplified application procedures. These include shorter topic descriptions, more open-ended calls, and wider use of lump-sum grants. Two-stage topics will allow applicants to first submit shorter proposals and only prepare full proposals if selected for the second stage, which will reduce the administrative burden for applicants.
5. Supporting talent: through talent investment, the programme addresses brain drain and promotes a vibrant research landscape. The 'Choose Europe for Science' pilot project will invest €22.5 million to attract and retain promising young talent in Europe. It will offer support and opportunities for early-career researchers, including competitive allowances and longer contracts, and co-fund postdoctoral fellowships providing researchers with excellent research, teaching or management opportunities.
6. Revitalising European neighbourhoods: the New European Bauhaus (NEB) Facility will fund innovative projects to make Europe’s living spaces more sustainable, inclusive, and beautiful. In 2025, €118.4 million is available through Horizon Europe, of which half will support local demonstrator projects, such as regenerative design, while the rest will fund fundamental research and support actions.
7. Supporting Ukrainian and Gazan Researchers: The Commission will continue to support the Horizon Europe Office in Ukraine, which builds stronger EU–Ukraine research networks and provides access for Ukrainian researchers to EU funding. When conditions allow, the programme will also help scientists return and help rebuild Ukraine's research and innovation. Furthermore, the programme offers immediate support to Gazan researchers through a Virtual Research Collaboration Hub, which will provide mentorship, collaboration opportunities and access to academic resources to Gazan researchers.

The first calls for proposals opened on 15 May on the Commission's Funding and Tenders portal. Further simplification of the Horizon Europe work programme is planned for 2026-27.

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