Horizon Europe, the EU’s funding program for research and innovation projects from 2021 to 2027, is hailed as a significant win for innovation in Europe. With a budget of €95.5 billion, it aims to build upon the success of its predecessor, Horizon 2020, and previous Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development.
One area that has greatly benefited from Horizon Europe’s funding is ground-breaking food system innovation. Take, for instance, the CLEVERFOOD project, which received €8.1 million to transform the European food system into one that is climate-friendly, protects nature and biodiversity, and promotes public health. Similarly, the SmartCow project, supported by the program, aims to enhance sustainability in the cattle industry through a shared research data platform. Additionally, the AlgaeProBANOS project explores the potential of algae to create high-value products and services for various food industry applications.
Horizon Europe also provides support for the European Innovation Council (EIC), which recently backed a four-year project to produce whey protein from carbon dioxide and electricity.
The UK’s re-entry into Horizon Europe as an associate member is seen as a landmark moment by commentators. Gareth Williams, Partner at intellectual property law firm Marks & Clerk, describes it as a win for both the UK and the EU. Access to the world’s largest collaboration program will benefit UK scientists and foster research across Europe. Moreover, the program’s emphasis on cross-border collaboration is critical for scientific advancements and innovation.
The UK government heralds this news as a milestone for scientific and space collaboration, stating that it will strengthen ties between the scientific communities in the UK and the EU, foster innovation, and enable joint efforts to tackle global challenges such as climate and health.
The UK’s departure from the EU originally led to its exit from Horizon, but discussions regarding future participation resumed, resulting in the recent agreement. Plans to establish a separate research funding program were seen as a suboptimal option, as science and innovation heavily rely on international collaboration. The University of Oxford, a major beneficiary of Horizon 2020 funding, sees this agreement as providing reassurance on European funding and collaboration opportunities in the coming years.
Dr. Michael Spence, President & Provost at University College London, also celebrates the announcement, highlighting how association with Horizon Europe facilitates impactful research and innovation networks. The program’s global reach allows cooperation with top researchers worldwide, enhancing the UK’s research quality, talent attractivity, and competitive edge.
Horizon Europe’s funding opportunities are driving significant food system innovation and promoting collaboration in research and innovation across Europe. The UK’s re-entry into the program as an associate member is widely regarded as a win-win situation, benefiting scientists, research institutions, and society as a whole.
