The UK is preparing to launch a new campaign in Spain and Germany aimed at strengthening research and business ties through the Horizon Europe programme.
The initiative highlights the value of working with UK researchers, academics and innovative businesses through the Horizon Europe initiative, opening the door to groundbreaking projects and new commercial opportunities.
The UK Minister of Science, Balance, emphasized the importance of the campaign. “Horizon Europe is an incredible tool for advancing world-leading science and research, both in terms of available funding and the opportunities it offers to innovators from across Europe.
“I want the UK to be a partner of choice for everyone involved in the program. As the home of the world’s largest universities and research institutes, and the second-highest number of Nobel laureates, globally, has deep strengths in R&D.
“If we pool that strength, everyone can benefit. And in today’s fast world, it’s more important than ever for us to do that.”
What is Horizon Europe?
As the world’s largest collaborative research and innovation program, Horizon Europe represents more than £82 billion in funding opportunities running through 2027.
It provides UK scientists, entrepreneurs and innovators with access to grants and partnerships in Europe and beyond.
By connecting expertise across borders, the programme addresses global challenges such as healthcare breakthroughs, practical use of artificial intelligence, and the development of sustainable industries.
A success story of British and European collaboration
The Horizon Europe programme is based on a strong history of UK partnerships with European institutions.
One outstanding example is the Escalate Project, a £109 million initiative supported by Horizon’s predecessor.
Yorkshire-based Electra Commercial Vehicle has collaborated with Spanish logistics company Primafrio Corporation SA and Germany’s University of RWTH Aachen to develop the development of cost-effective electric bulk commodity vehicles.
Their work not only demonstrated the commercial potential of these technologies, but also created new markets for cleaner transportation solutions across Europe.
Stephen Storrar, Electra Commercial Vehicles Projects Manager, explained:
“Working with academia and industry partners gives you experience in modeling and creating digital twins, coupled with modular component approaches and collaboration within the project consortium, pushing the boundaries of the possibilities of heavy electric truck arenas.
“Funding and project structure really helped us to make our promotions and open doors possible to open doors to the wider market.”
The UK’s strong track record in fundraising for Horizon Europe
The UK research community continues to excel under Horizon Europe.
It was confirmed in June that the UK had secured 56 ERC Advanced Grants worth around £120 million more than any other country.
These results highlight the strength and creativity of UK researchers, as well as the value of international partnerships that promote innovation.
Strengthen ties through new initiatives
Announcing alongside the Spanish Prime Minister’s visit to London, the upcoming campaign is designed to build stronger links with researchers and businesses in Germany and Spain.
By connecting with UK expertise, European partners will be better positioned to access Horizon’s funding and develop joint projects with real scientific and commercial impacts.
Going forward, the UK government will be running a series of networking events throughout Europe throughout 2025.
Additional grants will be available to support UK businesses to cover the costs of participating in R&D events, further enhancing opportunities to collaborate under the Horizon Europe programme.
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