1. Discover your fit
Start by identifying where your project fits within Horizon Europe.
You will need to understand which Horizon Europe pillar your project sits under. If your project is part of Pillar 2, you will also need to identify the relevant cluster or theme. You can explore funding areas, sectors and current call opportunities through the Horizon Europe Work Programmes.
If you are based in the UK and new to Horizon Europe, then you can contact the cross-cutting National Contact Point for information on how to sign up for one of UKRI’s free one hour Horizon Introduction sessions.
Explore Horizon Europe Opportunities
2. Check your eligibility
Before applying, check that your project meets the basic eligibility requirements for Horizon Europe funding.
Your project must deliver research or innovation with clear impact. You should review the high level eligibility criteria before you begin. Each call may also include specific eligibility rules, which are set out in the relevant Work Programme and call documents.
3. Understand the Funding and Tenders Portal
The Funding and Tenders Portal is the main place to find Horizon Europe calls and submit applications.
You will use the portal to search for opportunities, review call documents, register your organisation and submit your proposal. Understanding how the portal works early can help make the application process easier.
Find out more about Applying using the EU Funding and Tenders Portal
4. Select your call
Use the Funding and Tenders Portal to find calls that match your project.
You can search by keyword, funding area, topic or deadline. Review the call information carefully to make sure your project fits the scope, objectives and eligibility requirements.
Find funding calls on the EU Funding and Tenders portal
5. Build or join a consortium
If you are working collaboratively, most Horizon Europe applications need to be submitted by a consortium.
You may need to form a new consortium or join an existing one. This usually involves finding suitable partners, agreeing roles and responsibilities, and making sure the consortium meets the requirements of the call.
Find partners and build a winning consortium
6. Develop and submit your proposal
Once you have selected a call, you can begin developing your proposal.
Your proposal should clearly explain the project aims, expected impact, work plan, partners and budget. You must also make sure your organisation is registered on the Funding and Tenders Portal before applying. You can contact your National Contact Point for guidance on developing your proposal.
Find your National Contact Point
7. Funding outcome
After submission, your proposal will be reviewed by independent experts.
Applicants are usually informed of the outcome within around six months, depending on the call. If your proposal is successful, you will move to the grant agreement stage.
8. Start your successful project
If your application is successful, you will receive a grant agreement.
The grant agreement confirms the scope of work, funding, responsibilities and conditions for your project. Once this is signed, your project can officially begin.
9. Managing your award
Manage your project in line with the grant agreement.
Once your Horizon Europe grant is awarded, you will need to keep accurate records, submit reports, manage payments and amendments, and meet legal, financial and communication requirements throughout the project.
Find more information on managing your project
Timeline for Horizon Europe proposal preparation and submission
Applications to Horizon Europe calls take months to prepare prior to submission, especially if forming or joining a consortium. Below is an indicative timeline — always check the specific rules for your call and the closing date.
Indicative timeline
1. Form a consortium: 3–6 months
Form or join a consortium, define roles, and agree on work distribution.
2. Develop your proposal: 2–4 months
Develop and finalise the proposal ready for submission.
3. Submit and await results: 5 months (Pillar 1: 3–11 months)
Submit the proposal and await the results announcement.
4. Sign the grant agreement: 2–4 months
Sign the Master Grant Agreement to officially launch your project.
Last updated: 29 October 2026