Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation program, runs from 2021 to 2027 with a massive budget of €95.5 billion. Its goals are to strengthen scientific and technological foundations, boost industrial competitiveness, and address global challenges, including climate change. Here’s a step-by-step guide for Oulu’s ICT and tech companies to capitalize on the program’s funding opportunities.
Understanding Horizon Europe: Structure and Focus
Horizon Europe is structured into three key pillars:
1. Excellent Science
The primary purpose of the “Excellent Science” pillar in Horizon Europe is to advance Europe’s leadership in research. It achieves this through key initiatives such as the European Research Council (ERC), which provides funding for top-tier research projects, and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), designed to support researcher mobility and training. These initiatives open up significant opportunities for the ICT sector, particularly in groundbreaking fields like computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum technologies, fostering innovation and technological progress.
2. Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness
The purpose of the “Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness” pillar in Horizon Europe is to address pressing societal challenges through innovation and collaboration. For ICT and tech companies in Oulu, this pillar offers substantial opportunities across four key areas.
The first area, Digitalization, emphasizes the development and integration of digital technologies to enhance efficiency and foster innovation. This includes advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in machine learning and ethical applications, as well as Big Data and Analytics to promote real-time decision-making. A critical focus is placed on building next-generation digital infrastructure, such as 5G and 6G networks. For Oulu, which boasts expertise in IoT and embedded systems, participation in digital transformation projects aligns perfectly with regional strengths.
The second area, Climate and Energy Solutions, prioritizes the transition to renewable energy and the creation of sustainable energy systems while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Projects in this field include initiatives in Green Energy, such as solar, wind, and smart grids, and the development of Energy Efficiency technologies to optimize energy consumption. Climate Monitoring Tools also play a significant role, leveraging ICT for real-time tracking of environmental impacts. With Finland’s focus on green innovation, Oulu-based companies are well-positioned to contribute their expertise in sensor networks and data-driven solutions to enhance energy and climate resilience.
The third area, Mobility and Smart Technologies, focuses on creating sustainable and efficient transport systems. Key efforts include developing technologies for autonomous systems such as self-driving vehicles and drones, as well as integrating IoT and data-driven systems into Smart Cities projects for managing urban traffic and energy use. Additionally, Electric Mobility initiatives address the management of EV infrastructure and fleet optimization. Oulu’s innovation ecosystem provides a strong foundation for contributing to advancements in autonomous systems and smart urban solutions.
The final area, Cybersecurity and Health Technologies, aims to enhance Europe’s digital and physical security while driving health-tech innovations. Cybersecurity projects concentrate on secure communication systems, encryption, and data privacy, whereas E-Health initiatives focus on advancing telemedicine, remote diagnostics, and wearable technologies. Pandemic preparedness is another critical aspect, utilizing AI and IoT for early detection and response. With its growing health-tech sector, Oulu is well-equipped to lead in secure health data management and telemedicine solutions.
Additionally, European Partnerships within this pillar foster collaborations for joint innovation in areas such as clean hydrogen, digital transformation, and sustainable industries. By engaging with these opportunities, Oulu’s ICT and tech companies can not only drive technological progress but also contribute to solving some of Europe’s most pressing societal challenges.
3. Innovative Europe
The “Innovative Europe” pillar of Horizon Europe is designed to propel breakthrough innovations to market, ensuring that high-risk, high-reward ideas can transition from concept to commercialization. Central to this pillar is the European Innovation Council (EIC), which provides targeted funding for disruptive innovations with the potential for transformative impact. The EIC supports projects that push the boundaries of existing technologies, offering significant resources to innovators willing to take bold risks.
In addition to fostering cutting-edge ideas, this pillar emphasizes support for market-entry solutions, particularly for SMEs and startups. By providing the necessary funding and resources, it helps smaller enterprises scale their innovations and achieve commercial success. This focus ensures that groundbreaking technologies and ideas are not only developed but also reach the market, driving growth, competitiveness, and technological leadership across Europe.
Specific Benefits for Oulu’s ICT and Tech Companies
Horizon Europe offers significant advantages for ICT and tech companies in Oulu, providing targeted funding and support for innovation, collaboration, and growth. The European Innovation Council (EIC) stands out as a critical resource, offering tools such as the EIC Pathfinder, EIC Transition, and EIC Accelerator. These programs provide grants and equity investments of up to €15 million per project, focusing on high-potential innovations that range from concept development to market deployment. Areas of particular interest include Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, photonics, and next-generation digital technologies, enabling companies to scale groundbreaking solutions.
The program also prioritizes digitalization and industry clusters, with a clear focus on AI, robotics, advanced data analytics, and computing technologies. For example, in 2023, €85 million was allocated to AI and data projects, directly aligning with Oulu’s expertise in 5G/6G networks, IoT, and embedded systems. This alignment allows Oulu-based companies to leverage existing strengths while accessing resources to advance technological development further.
Collaborative partnerships and missions supported by Horizon Europe enable Oulu’s companies to participate in joint projects with European research institutions and industries. These collaborations address global challenges in ICT, health-tech, and green innovation, providing access to international expertise and markets. This fosters faster growth, innovation, and the development of globally competitive solutions.
Horizon Europe also offers dedicated support for SMEs and startups through the EIC Accelerator and blended finance opportunities, combining grants and equity. These initiatives assist in scaling operations, commercializing disruptive technologies, and achieving a competitive edge in the market. Moreover, the program supports the formation of R&D consortia, where companies can engage in collaborative research projects involving partners from across the EU. This creates opportunities to build networks, access broader resources, and enhance talent development.
By tapping into these benefits, Oulu’s ICT and tech companies can strengthen their innovation capabilities but also establish themselves as leaders in addressing global challenges, creating sustainable growth, and contributing to the technological future of Europe.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access Horizon Europe Funding
Verify Eligibility
To access Horizon Europe funding, your company must meet the eligibility criteria. The program is open to all EU-based entities, including SMEs, startups, and large enterprises. This means that businesses of any size, working in any industry, can apply as long as they are legally established in the EU or an associated country. For ICT and tech companies in Oulu, this is a significant opportunity to compete for funding on an equal footing with other European entities.
Identify Relevant Calls
Regularly monitor the EU’s Funding and Tenders Portal to find funding calls that align with your company’s expertise and project goals. Each call outlines specific objectives, requirements, and deadlines. Categories such as “Digital Transformation,” “AI,” and “Green Technologies” are particularly relevant for tech companies in Oulu. By carefully matching your project to the right call, you increase your chances of success.
Prepare a Comprehensive Proposal
Crafting a strong project proposal is critical to securing funding. Clearly define your project objectives, including the research or innovation goals you aim to achieve. Outline a detailed methodology, specifying the steps and processes you will follow to reach your objectives. Demonstrate the potential impact of your project, emphasizing how it aligns with Horizon Europe’s priorities, such as societal impact or industrial competitiveness. Use clear, concise language, and include measurable outcomes to strengthen your proposal’s credibility.
Form a Consortium (if needed)
Many Horizon Europe calls require collaboration with partners from at least three EU member states or associated countries. Building a consortium allows you to bring together complementary skills and expertise. Ideal partners could include universities, research labs, or other companies that add value to your project. For example, if you are developing AI solutions, collaborating with a European firm specializing in advanced computing can enhance your proposal’s appeal.
Submit Your Proposal
Submit your proposal through the EU’s Funding and Tenders Portal before the specified deadline. Ensure that all required documents are complete and adhere to the outlined format. Attention to detail is crucial at this stage to avoid disqualification due to technical errors or missing information.
Undergo Evaluation
Once submitted, your proposal will be evaluated by independent experts based on three main criteria:
A) Excellence: Does the project demonstrate a high level of scientific or technological innovation?
B) Impact: Will the project effectively address societal challenges or enhance industrial competitiveness?
C) Implementation: Does your team have the capacity, expertise, and resources to execute the project successfully?
A well-rounded proposal that scores highly across all these criteria is more likely to secure funding.
Sign the Grant Agreement
If your proposal is selected, your company will enter into a grant agreement with the European Commission. This agreement outlines the funding amount, project timeline, and specific deliverables. Signing this agreement is a formal commitment to fulfill the project’s objectives as outlined in your proposal.
Project Implementation and Reporting
After signing the grant agreement, begin implementing your project according to the approved plan. It’s important to maintain transparency and accountability by submitting periodic progress reports to the European Commission. These reports should detail the achievements, challenges, and financial expenditures associated with the project.
Practical Tips and Resources
- Consult National Contact Points (NCPs):
- Finland has dedicated Horizon Europe NCPs offering guidance on proposal preparation and networking opportunities.
- They can also help identify relevant funding calls and potential partners.
- Leverage Regional Innovation Hubs:
- Oulu’s innovation ecosystem provides access to local expertise and facilities, boosting the success of Horizon Europe projects.
- Stay Updated:
- Regularly monitor the EU’s funding portal and attend webinars or info sessions hosted by the European Commission or NCPs.
Conclusion
Horizon Europe offers unparalleled opportunities for ICT and tech companies. By tapping into its resources, your company can innovate, expand, and establish itself as a global leader. Don’t miss the chance to harness this transformative program—start exploring funding calls today, and let Horizon Europe propel your company into the future. For personalized assistance, reach out to Finland’s NCPs to maximize your success.