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

Innovative microgrids for improved energy system integration and efficiency in urban contexts

Enhancing Resilience and Accuracy in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Systems and e-conspicuity solutions

European CCAM knowledge hub and tools for safe and scalable deployment (CCAM Partnership)

Enhancing Mobility for All: affordable, reliable, and accessible multimodal transport for inclusive rural and urban connectivity – Societal Readiness pilot

Open topic on enhanced prevention, detection and deterrence of societal issues related to various forms of crime

Detection and characterisation of threats or illegal/ smuggled goods in cargo

Open topic on research and innovation for effective management of EU external borders that promotes fundamental rights and EU values

Community policing in diverse societies in Europe

Effective and evidence-based responses to the increased availability and use of synthetic drugs and stimulants in Europe

Open Topic on advanced protective gear optimized for CBRN-E (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives) environments and new generation of smart protective equipment for disaster responders

Demand-led innovation in security

Enhancing physical protection of critical infrastructures

Impact of malicious use of Open-Source Intelligence on critical infrastructure business continuity

Enhancing preparedness for large-scale cross-border disasters

Online harms detection and investigation tools using a short development cycle model

Trusted, secure, quality future digital travel credentials

Open topic on increasing security of citizens against terrorism, including in public spaces

Accelerating uptake through open proposals for advanced SME innovation

Societal resilience, engagement of the younger generations and digital innovation for disaster resilience

Open grounds for future pre-commercial procurement of innovative security technologies

Enhancing decision support system for disaster crises: leveraging emerging technologies for improved civil preparedness and crisis management

Industrial processes and equipment for innovative, reliable and scalable tandem technologies (EUPI-PV Partnership)

Combining conventional and innovative construction materials, products and techniques for sustainable and beautiful buildings

Community of practice - Data-Driven Decision-Making in Energy

Novel combinations of knowledge and research methods to address social issues and advance a fair green transition of neighbourhoods

PV based electrification of the economy: Designing & optimising PV systems supporting industrial electrification and promoting participation in electricity markets (EUPI-PV Partnership)

Advanced TSO control rooms to enhance grid observability, stability and resilience

Sustainable, beautiful and healthy construction and renovation sites

Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADSM) for more efficient and flexible distribution grids

Delivery of industrial CCUS clusters – Societal Readiness pilot

Frequently Asked Questions About Research EU Grants