As the UK marks the first anniversary of its association with the Horizon Europe programme, the government has unveiled an ambitious agenda to boost participation from researchers, innovators, and businesses nationwide.
The Horizon Europe programme, with a budget of €80bn, runs from 2021 to 2027 and is the world’s largest research and innovation collaboration initiative.
This milestone aligns with the UK’s broader Plan for Change, aimed at fostering groundbreaking discoveries to drive economic growth and address global challenges.
UK Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle explained: “Everyone knew what a big job we had on our hands to restore the UK’s place as the natural R&D partner to our neighbours when we associated with Horizon a year ago.
“But the brilliance of our scientists and businesses was never in doubt, and the green shoots of recovery are breaking through.
“In 2025, it really is now or never to truly reap the benefits of Horizon association. This year, we will pull every lever at our disposal to help Britain’s innovators seize the opportunities for funding and collaboration that are open to them.
“Only by backing our brightest minds to get their ideas out of the lab and into the economy will we be able to fulfil our mission of national renewal as part of our Plan for Change.”
What Is Horizon Europe?
Horizon Europe is a flagship programme of the European Union designed to fund research and innovation projects tackling critical societal challenges.
From revolutionising healthcare to advancing green energy and enhancing AI-driven productivity, the Horizon Europe programme empowers researchers and businesses to pioneer transformative solutions.
In addition to fostering domestic progress, Horizon Europe encourages cross-border collaborations, linking UK innovators with partners across Europe and associated countries such as Canada and South Korea.
UK-based participants can access competitive grants to accelerate their projects, fostering breakthroughs that benefit the global community. By associating with Horizon Europe, the UK solidifies its commitment to global scientific excellence and innovation.
A year of progress
Since rejoining Horizon Europe, the UK has made notable strides. In 2024, the country hosted 18 projects under the prestigious ERC Synergy Grants – the second-highest number among participating nations.
This success follows a concerted effort to bolster UK participation, including pump-priming grants, a strategic PR campaign targeting key European markets, and a series of Horizon Europe Roadshow events across the UK.
Looking ahead to 2025, the government aims to build on this momentum with enhanced initiatives designed to help UK researchers and businesses maximise Horizon’s potential.
Horizon Europe roadshows
Following the success of events in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the West Midlands, new roadshows are planned for Wales and London in 2025.
These events will provide researchers and innovators with opportunities to learn from successful Horizon applicants, receive tailored support, and connect with peers pursuing similar funding goals.
Brokerage events across Europe
Innovate UK will launch brokerage events in Italy, Germany, and Spain, where delegations of British researchers and business leaders can network with potential partners. These events aim to strengthen collaborative R&D projects and enhance the quality of Horizon funding bids.
Renewed PR campaign
Building on last year’s success, the government is launching a targeted marketing campaign to inspire UK R&D-focused businesses to apply for Horizon funding.
The campaign, spanning LinkedIn, podcasts, and other channels, will highlight the diverse projects supported by the Horizon Europe programme – from curing diseases to transforming agricultural practices – and emphasise the comprehensive support available to applicants.
Travel awards for innovators
A new travel grant scheme will provide up to £700 for UK innovators attending R&D networking events across Europe. By covering travel costs, the initiative aims to facilitate partnerships that can lead to successful Horizon bids. Details are available on the Innovate UK website.
A showcase of Horizon Europe success
UK businesses are already reaping the benefits of Horizon Europe. One standout example is Recycleye, an innovative company developing AI-powered robotics to reduce the cost of waste sorting and make recycling more economically viable.
With a grant of £385,000, Recycleye expanded its engineering team, enabling the refinement of its robotics to meet customer demands effectively. This project exemplifies the transformative potential of Horizon Europe funding.
The Horizon Europe programme represents an unparalleled opportunity for the UK to lead on the global stage in research and innovation.
By expanding participation and strengthening partnerships, the government’s 2025 strategy ensures that researchers and businesses can fully capitalise on the programme’s potential.
From fostering economic growth to addressing pressing societal challenges, Horizon Europe is poised to be a cornerstone of the UK’s innovation ecosystem.
