Singapore has announced a major new initiative, the Horizon Europe Complementary Fund, aimed at strengthening its role in international research collaboration.
This announcement is an important step towards increasing the participation of Singapore-based researchers and innovators in Horizon Europe, the European Union’s flagship research and innovation programme.
New funding channels for global cooperation
The Horizon Europe Supplementary Fund provides targeted financial support to eligible Singapore-based entities participating in collaborative research projects under Horizon Europe Pillar 2.
Pillar 2 focuses on global challenges and industrial competitiveness and is strategically aligned with Singapore’s national research priorities.
Through this complementary funding mechanism, Singapore-based participants can overcome financial barriers that may limit participation in large international consortia.
The fund is expected to open new opportunities for universities, research institutes and innovation-driven organizations to collaborate on cutting-edge research with European partners.
Strengthen support for researchers in the field
To further facilitate uptake, the National Research Foundation of Singapore (NRF) has established a dedicated national contact point.
These points of contact serve as the first point of contact for local researchers seeking guidance on Horizon Europe’s call, eligibility regulations, and proposal writing.
In addition, NRF will host a series of information sessions in January 2026 to demystify the Horizon Europe process and help Singapore-based teams address international cooperation requirements with confidence.
Part of a broader research and innovation strategy
The launch of the Horizon Europe Complementary Fund is closely aligned with Singapore’s long-term research vision under the Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2030 (RIE2030) programme.
Under the plan, the Singapore government has committed S$37 billion (€24.5 billion) over five years to promote research, innovation and business.
This represents a 32% increase compared to the previous funding cycle and reflects Singapore’s ambition to translate scientific excellence into tangible social and economic outcomes.
International collaboration is a key pillar of this strategy, allowing local researchers to tap into global expertise and infrastructure.
Expanding research ties between the EU and Singapore
The initiative also strengthens the broader EU-Singapore partnership in science and innovation.
International cooperation is at the heart of the European Union’s global approach to research and innovation, and Horizon Europe serves as the main vehicle for realizing this vision.
Horizon Europe offers multiple entry points for researchers outside Europe. Beyond Pillar 2 collaborations, Singapore-based researchers can also pursue Marie Skłodowska Curie Action and European Research Council grants under Pillar 1, or, if setting up a venture in Europe, explore innovation funding opportunities through the European Innovation Council under Pillar 3.
Tackling global challenges together
By launching the Horizon Europe Complementary Fund, Singapore is clearly demonstrating its commitment to open and collaborative science.
This initiative will not only lower barriers to participation, but also position Singapore researchers as active contributors to international efforts to address common global challenges, from sustainability and digital transformation to health and resilience.
As global research becomes increasingly interconnected, the Horizon Europe Complementary Fund stands out as a timely and strategic investment in collaboration, excellence and impact.
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