Question 1

What EU grants are available for the Materials Science sector?

Accepted Answer

The European Commission offers a wide range of funding opportunities specifically designed for the Materials Science sector. These include grants through Horizon Europe (the EU's flagship research and innovation programme with a budget of €95.5 billion), the European Innovation Council (EIC) which provides funding for breakthrough innovations, and various sector-specific initiatives. Funding types range from Research and Innovation Actions (RIA) with 100% funding rates, to Innovation Actions (IA) with 70% funding for companies, and Coordination and Support Actions (CSA) for networking and coordination activities. Our database helps you find grants that match your organization's specific needs, project stage, and funding requirements.

Question 2

How do I apply for Materials Science grants from the EU?

Accepted Answer

Applying for EU grants in the Materials Science sector involves several key steps. First, use Grantalist to identify suitable open calls that match your project idea and organization type. Next, carefully review the call documentation, including eligibility criteria, evaluation criteria, and the work programme. Most EU grants require you to form a consortium with partners from at least 3 different EU member states or associated countries. Once ready, you'll submit your proposal through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal, which includes a detailed description of your project, work packages, budget breakdown, and impact assessment. The evaluation process typically takes 3-5 months, after which successful applicants enter grant agreement preparation. We recommend starting your application at least 2-3 months before the deadline.

Question 3

What is the typical funding amount for Materials Science EU grants?

Accepted Answer

EU grants for the Materials Science sector offer diverse funding levels depending on the programme and action type. Small-scale grants through programmes like EIC Accelerator can start from €500,000 up to €2.5 million in grant funding, plus up to €15 million in equity investment. Collaborative research projects under Horizon Europe typically range from €3 million to €10 million for standard projects, while some large-scale flagship initiatives can exceed €20 million. SMEs and startups often benefit from higher funding rates (up to 70% for Innovation Actions compared to large companies) and access to specialized instruments. The exact amount depends on the specific call topic, project scope, consortium size, and type of activities proposed.

Question 4

Who is eligible for Materials Science EU grants?

Accepted Answer

Eligibility for Materials Science EU grants extends to a wide range of organizations. Legal entities from EU member states and associated countries (including the UK for some programmes, Norway, Switzerland, and others) are typically eligible. This includes universities and research institutions, large enterprises and multinational corporations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with fewer than 250 employees, startups and scale-ups, public bodies and NGOs, and international organizations. Some calls specifically target certain organization types, such as SME-only calls or academic-focused research grants. Third-country participation is possible in many programmes, though often without EU funding.

EU Grants for Materials Science

Open topic: Using the Circular Cities and Regions Initiative to strengthen urban manufacturing in support of the Clean Industrial Deal

Innovative biotechnologies to restore soil health and improve agricultural competitiveness and resilience

Development of cell-free protein synthesis platforms for discovery and/or production of biologicals

Portable and versatile Point-of-care diagnostics

Data-driven circular economy for e-mobility ecosystem (2ZERO Partnership)

Novel approaches towards next-generation battery concepts, leveraging the enabling role of innovative advanced materials (BATT4EU and IAM4EU Partnerships)

Sustainable aircraft circular design and additive manufacturing, towards a climate neutral aviation

Noise reduction breakthroughs for new ultraefficient aircraft

Fire prevention and mitigation for EVs in confined areas (2ZERO Partnership)

Increasing knowledge flows to practice within AKIS via EU thematic knowledge hubs

Fostering generational renewal in agriculture via EU advisory network

AI supporting informed advice for farmers and foresters to improve competitiveness and sustainability

International dimension of the circular bio-based economy: seeking win-win opportunities

Access to research infrastructure services to enable R&I addressing EU priorities and emerging challenges

Strengthening the potential of the EOSC for knowledge valorisation and industry-academia collaboration (EOSC Partnership)

Space critical EEE components for EU non-dependence

On-site robotic and automated techniques for building renovation and new construction

R&I in Support of the Clean Industrial Deal: Clean Technologies for Climate Action

Demonstration for Long-duration Battery Energy Storage Systems (BATT4EU Partnership)

R&I in Support of the Clean Industrial Deal: Decarbonisation of energy intensive industries (IA) (Processes4Planet and Clean Steel partnerships)

Integrating circularity in LCA-based modelling frameworks for renovation of buildings (Built4People Partnership)

Living labs to monitor and mitigate carcinogenic substances in and originating from soils: Evaluating their effects on human cancer risks

Researching and applying the potential of Artificial Intelligence to foster climate resilience at the regional and local levels

Circularity of seafood supply chain

Biotechnology application for CCU

Increasing the circularity of bio-based sector: upcycling and recycling for higher value and environmental benefits

Enhancing ecodesign and circularity of construction products

Innovative circular solutions for end-of-life footwear through collection, sorting and recycling

Living Labs for the eradication and/or management of invasive alien species

Advancing bio-printing of living cells for regenerative medicine

Frequently Asked Questions About Materials Science EU Grants