With a significant boost to UK science and innovation, UK researchers and tech companies have now expanded access to Horizon Europe’s funding, unlocking new opportunities for quantum computing and space research.
The move, part of the EU’s 2025 work programme, was announced as European Commissioner Maloszhuchovich, the first official visit to the UK under the current government.
With billions of funds in crisis, this new partnership brings the UK back to the heart of European innovation.
UK Minister of Science, Balance has commented on the opportunities for Landmark Horizon Europe.
“They now have an even greater opportunity to access one of the world’s most important vehicles for R&D funding, advance their knowledge, tackle the world’s biggest challenges, and build international connections that they know to be important to achieve economic growth at the heart of this government’s plan of change.
“We want to grab the moment when innovators stand in front of them up and down the UK. Horizon’s doors are open to you. We have the support available to help you. Now is the time to build funding, build consortiums and take your work to the next level.”
New Horizon Europe calls to unlock quantum and space opportunities
The UK has secured access to the majority (over 95%) of Horizon Europe’s funding opportunities, fully included in all quantum survey calls and most of space-related programs.
This expanded access allows UK entities to form research consortiums across Europe and around the world, including countries such as Canada and Switzerland.
The new calls, which are part of Horizon’s 95 euro framework, are set up to open immediately. Space and industry calls will be launched on May 22nd, while digital calls will begin on June 10th.
British researchers are now poised to claim a larger share of this substantial pot, further integrating the UK into the European innovation environment.
Commissioner Chev Chovich meets British leaders and researchers
During his visit, Commissioner Sifchovich joined the British Minister of EU relations, Nick Thomas Simmons, touring Imperial College London.
There they met researchers who were already working on a project funded by Horizon. The visit also included high-level meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, business and trade officials, as well as the Northern Ireland office, reinforcing the joint intent behind this new scientific partnership.
Thomas-Symonds and Shefčovič will highlight the strategic importance of UK EU cooperation in trade and innovation policies and co-chair the Joint Committee on Exit Contracts.
Quantum and Space: Engines for Economic Growth
Quantum computing and space technology are at the forefront of the UK’s innovation agenda. Quantum computing alone is expected to generate between $500 billion and $10 billion worldwide over the next five years.
Meanwhile, the UK space industry has already donated £18.9 billion a year to the economy, employing more than 52,000 people, making it the largest space investment hub outside the United States.
Not only do these sectors promise economic benefits, they also support national priorities such as health innovation, clean energy and digital infrastructure.
Quantum Technology, for example, offers healthcare diagnostics, logistics optimization, and financial modeling breakthroughs.
Strategic victory for the UK’s innovation ecosystem
This broad access to Horizon Europe’s funding is the result of a milestone several months after constructive UK-EU negotiations.
It acknowledges the UK’s position as a priority research partner in key areas such as AI, high-performance computing, telecoms, food security, and Agritech.
Additionally, it will strengthen its UK participation in the Copernicus Earth Observation Program and bolster its joint ambitions for independent European space access.
As the UK prepares for the launch of its first orbit from Saxavod in the Shetrannd Islands later this year, its role in the future of Europe’s space is more prominent than ever.
Encourage UK innovators to take action
The imminent new calls will encourage UK-based researchers, startups and academic institutions to seize the opportunity to apply for Horizon Europe support.
The programme not only offers significant funding, but also offers opportunities to shape the next wave of Europe’s scientific and technological breakthroughs.
Horizon Europe’s fundraising is more than economic opportunity. This is a strategic gateway for the UK to remain at the heart of global innovation.
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