The recent expansion and geographical growth of Horizon Europe’s international cooperation marks a significant shift in the EU’s approach to research and innovation collaboration, and opens up exciting possibilities for the EIT Global Outreach. 

Everyone is talking about the new countries associating to Horizon Europe. What does it actually mean? Why does it matter? And most importantly, how can you tap into new opportunities? 

What is Horizon Europe in a nutshell? 

Horizon Europe is the EU’s flagship research and innovation funding programme, fostering scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration to tackle global challenges. It aims to strengthen Europe’s scientific leadership, address issues like climate change and health, and boost industrial competitiveness. The programme offers funding for a variety of activities, including research, innovation, and technology transfer, supporting stakeholders across Europe and beyond. Through collaborative projects, grants, and partnerships, Horizon Europe aims to deliver tangible societal impact and drive economic growth. 

Expansion of Horizon Europe Associated Countries 

Traditionally, Horizon Europe association was limited to countries in close geographic proximity to the European Union (“neighbours”). However, Horizon Europe has introduced a groundbreaking change, offering the opportunity for association to countries with robust science, innovation, and technology profiles, regardless of their geographic location, as long as they share a common understanding of fundamental principles and values in research and innovation. 

A recent notable association was the inclusion of the United Kingdom, which led to the launch of our new global outreach hub @EIT Hub UK. Horizon Europe since expanded its reach to include Canada, New Zealand, and most recently, the Republic of Korea.  

What does it mean to be a Horizon Europe associated country? 

Legal entities based in Horizon Europe associated countries can participate in Horizon Europe funding opportunities in the same manner as those from EU Member States, unless specific limitations or conditions are laid down. There are now a total of 20 countries associated to Horizon Europe, offering a wealth of opportunities for collaboration and partnership within the Horizon Europe framework, with benefits to both EU based organisations that can now expand their network and impact, and the associated countries that can access new opportunities. 

What is the added value of having new and diverse countries associated to Horizon Europe?   

1. Global Connections: For EU based organisations, the addition of the UK, New Zealand, Canada and Korea broadens the innovation network, fostering more opportunities for cross border collaboration and knowledge exchange, and providing new avenues to reach an even wider span of potential partners in research and innovation endeavours. For organisations in the associated countries, this development enables them to tap into new opportunities, funding and physical resources that were not previously available to them. This will essentially increase the number of collaborative research projects and drive innovation forward on a global scale. 
2. Diverse Perspectives: The new inclusion of the UK, New Zealand, Canada and Korea in Horizon Europe related projects injects fresh perspectives into discussions and consortiums, fuelling a global approach and encouraging global solutions to challenges that affect us on a global scale. 
3. New Horizons: The expansion of Horizon Europe enables researchers, ecosystem managers, innovators and other stakeholders to connect with international partners from new geographical regions, and amplify their impact on a global scale. This is already evident in the EIT Global Outreach’s activities, with its new hub in the UK and its Calling2Scale scalerator that connects between Europe and the Canadian innovation ecosystem.

5 winning tips – How can you tap into horizon Europe opportunities? 

1. Understand the Association Process: If your organisation is based in a newly associated country, familiarize yourself with the requirements and procedures for countries associated with Horizon Europe. Stay updated on the latest guidelines and criteria set by the European Commission for potential associate countries through your local government. This knowledge will help you navigate the application process and ensure compliance with the necessary regulations. If you are an EU based organisation that wants to partner with an organisation in a newly associated country, reach out to your National Contact Point for Horizon Europe to understand the guidelines in place for that specific country. 

2. Build Strong Partnerships: Building trusting multi-lateral relationships is key to success in Horizon Europe initiatives. Organisations both in the EU and outside of it should leverage the expanded network of Horizon Europe to forge strategic partnerships with organisations and institutions. This is an opportunity to collaborate on joint research projects, exchange best practices, and share resources to maximize the impact of your initiatives. Cultivate relationships with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and expertise areas to promote innovation and drive positive change on a global scale. 

3. Connect with Ecosystem Players: Engage with ecosystem players that connect different geographical locations. Explore opportunities like the EIT Global Outreach ‘Bridging the Horizon’ virtual matchmaking series and Connect & Experience programmes. These initiatives, amongst others, provide excellent opportunities to connect with relevant stakeholders and explore potential collaborations, building your future partnerships. 

4. Stay Engaged and Informed: Remain actively involved in Horizon Europe-related activities, initiatives, and read up on open calls to stay on top of emerging opportunities and developments. Attend workshops, webinars, and networking events organized by Horizon Europe and its contact points in associate countries. These events offer valuable insights into funding opportunities, collaborative projects, and policy changes. By staying informed, you can align your initiatives with the broader objectives of Horizon Europe and maximize your chances of success. 

5. Utilize Networking Platforms: Leverage networking platforms to expand your reach and connect with relevant stakeholders. Follow LinkedIn accounts such as Horizon Europe, InnovateUK, ISERD, and the EU Commissioner for R&I to stay updated on the latest news, events, and opportunities. Engage in discussions, share insights, and build connections with professionals in your field. Networking platforms provide a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, explore potential collaborations, and stay connected with the Horizon Europe community. 

Make sure to follow EIT Global Outreach for more updates and opportunities to tap into. 

Helpful links: 

EU press release on association of Republic of Korea to Horizon Europe 

EU press release on association of Canada to Horizon Europe 

Horizon Europe website 

Horizon Europe Linkedin 

Government of Canada on Horizon Europe 

InnovateUK 

ISERD