Question 1

What EU grants are available for the Research sector?

Accepted Answer

The European Commission offers a wide range of funding opportunities specifically designed for the Research 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 Research grants from the EU?

Accepted Answer

Applying for EU grants in the Research 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 Research EU grants?

Accepted Answer

EU grants for the Research 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 Research EU grants?

Accepted Answer

Eligibility for Research 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 Research

Grid-forming capabilities for more resilient and RES-based electricity grids

AI-driven forecasting algorithms for Grid and Consumer friendly Energy Sharing – Societal Readiness pilot

Advancing lead markets and proof-of-concept for deep tech solutions contributing to EU Missions

Affordable and sustainable primary equipment for Future-Ready multi-terminal HVDC Systems

Uptake of innovative cybersecurity solutions for SMEs

Regional Cable Hubs

Coordinated preparedness testing and other preparedness actions

Strengthening skills and capacity for the deployment of EU Missions

Development of direct recycling processes (BATT4EU Partnership)

Next generation of renewable energy technologies

Targeting key value chain components for increasing the competitiveness of renewable energy technologies in Europe

Understanding and overcoming barriers to the scale-up of innovations supporting EU Missions

School Education: STEM Education Centres

Digital Education: AI-powered Personalised Learning Pathways for Basic Skills

Digital Education: Public-private partnerships for ethical design, development and use of Artificial Intelligence tools in education and training

Vocational Education and Training: Improving transparency and recognition of VET qualifications

MSCA COFUND 2026

Twinning

Sustainable and healthy diets based on health status and socio-economic risk factors of ageing population

Advanced innovative solutions for improved competitiveness and sustainability in controlled environment agriculture (CEA)

Advancing basic knowledge and developing tools for sustainable management of key migratory fish species

Boosting the competitiveness of protein crops in Europe

Boosting sustainable competitiveness in rural areas through innovation

Boosting plant health and reducing losses on farm and during storage for sustainable growth in Africa (FNSSA)

Strengthening the EU plant protection ecosystem for a future-proof agriculture

Tackling pesticide resistance: early detection, management strategies, and foresight

Leveraging R&I knowledge on microbiome

Integrating a holistic perspective in microbiome research for resilient, competitive and sustainable food systems

Developing innovative phytosanitary treatments for regulated plant pests to support safe international trade

Open topic: Improving the competitiveness of the agricultural sector by enhancing the efficient and sustainable use of agricultural production factors

Frequently Asked Questions About Research EU Grants