### may receive support from the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund + or the european agricultural fund for rural development , in accordance with paragraph 5 of article [ 67 ] of regulation xx [ common provisions regulation ] and article [ 8 ] or regulation xx [ financing , management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy ] , provided that such actions are consistent with the objectives of the programme concerned . the rules of the fund providing support shall apply . ### may receive support from the european regional development fund , the european social fund + or the european agricultural fund for rural development , in accordance with paragraph 5 of article [ 67 ] of regulation xx [ common provisions regulation ] and article [ 8 ] or regulation xx [ financing , management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy ] , and they will be exempted from the second evaluation process , under the conditions that the project contributes to the objectives of the funds , where the additional funding stems from ; and provided that such actions are consistent and complementary to the objectives of the programme concerned . the rules of the fund receiving support shall apply .


### spark activity across disciplines , sectors and actors ; ### spark activity and boost synergies across disciplines , sectors and actors ;


### where appropriate , indirect costs included in unit costs or lump sums shall be calculated using the flat rate set out in paragraph 1 , except for unit costs for internally invoiced goods and services which shall be calculated on the basis of actual costs , in accordance with the beneficiaries ' usual costs accounting practices . ### where appropriate , instead of using the flat rate set out in paragraph 1 , indirect costs can be determined by unit costs for internally invoiced goods and services which shall be calculated on the basis of actual costs , in accordance with the beneficiaries ' usual costs accounting practices .


### the programme ' s general objective is to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact from the union ' s investments in research and innovation so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the union and foster its competitiveness , including in its industry , deliver on the union strategic priorities , and contribute to tackling global challenges , including the sustainable development goals . ### the programme ' s objective is to promote scientific excellence and mobility in europe . furthermore , the general objective is to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact from the union ' s investments in research and innovation so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the union and foster its competitiveness , including in its industry , deliver on the union strategic priorities , and contribute to tackling global challenges , including the sustainable development goals .


### the key elements of the proposal evaluation and selection system of the predecessor programme horizon 2020 with its particular focus on excellence should be maintained . proposals should continue to be selected based on the evaluation made by independent experts . where relevant , the necessity to ensure the overall coherence of the portfolio of projects should be taken into account . ### the key elements of the proposal evaluation and selection system of the predecessor programme horizon 2020 with its particular focus on excellence should be maintained while ensuring broader geographical representation of all member states in the peer - review panels and the evaluation of the programme . proposals should continue to be selected based on the evaluation made by independent experts stemming from as many member states as possible . where relevant , the necessity to ensure the overall coherence of the portfolio of projects should be taken into account by independent experts .


### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries’ participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 . ### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . it is stated in the evaluation that the previous programme was clearly underfunded given the number of proposals put forward that were deemed to have exceeded the stringent quality threshold , and it is estimated that applicants spent eur 643 million preparing the proposals . the recommendations put forward include : invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; support breakthrough innovation ; prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; develop more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to participation by third countries ; and continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 .


### eur 400 000 000 for ' reforming and enhancing the european r&i system ' . ### 0 . 75% for ' reforming and enhancing the european union’s r&i system ' .


### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefit and global commitments to implement the un sdgs . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s research and innovation excellence , attractiveness and economic and industrial competitiveness , to tackle global challenges , as embodied in the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions should be followed , including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted . ### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefits and global commitments to implement the un sdgs and the paris agreement . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s excellence in research and innovation , in particular eco - innovation , attractiveness and economic and industrial sustainability and competitiveness , to tackle global social challenges , as embodied in the paris agreement and the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies with a special focus on reduction and eradication of poverty . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions including with low - and middle income countries , should be followed . appropriate eligibility criteria concerning different levels of r&i capacities for funding of entities in low to middle income countries should be applied . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted in order to encourage the contribution of worldwide talent to the delivery of the programme .


### “seal of excellence” means a certified label which shows that a proposal submitted to a call for proposals exceeded all of the thresholds set out in the work programme , but could not be funded due to lack of budget available to that call in the work programme ; ### “seal of excellence” means a certified label which shows that a proposal submitted to a call for proposals exceeded all of the thresholds set out in the work programme , but and could not be funded due to lack of budget available to that call in the work programme , but which might receive support from the european regional development fund , the european social fund + or the european agricultural fund for rural development ;


### to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - a framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges and promote industrial competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area . ### to deliver scientific , economic , climate and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - a framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies within and outside the union , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies and commitments , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to improve human well - being and to address global challenges , notably the sdgs and the paris agreement and promote industrial competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area .


### open science practices beyond open access to research outputs and responsible management of research data shall be promoted . ### where appropriate , open science practices beyond open access to scientific publication and research data shall be promoted ; management of research data shall be promoted .


### the key elements of the proposal evaluation and selection system of the predecessor programme horizon 2020 with its particular focus on excellence should be maintained . proposals should continue to be selected based on the evaluation made by independent experts . where relevant , the necessity to ensure the overall coherence of the portfolio of projects should be taken into account . ### the key elements of the proposal evaluation and selection system of the predecessor programme horizon 2020 with its particular focus on ‘ excellence’ , ‘ impact’ and ‘ quality and efficiency of implementation’ criteria , should be maintained . proposals should continue to be selected based on the evaluation made by independent experts . the commission should organise blind - evaluation pilots and analyse its results in order to implement , if justified , blind - evaluation procedure in all parts of horizon europe . where relevant , the necessity to ensure the overall coherence of the portfolio of projects should be taken into account by independent experts .


### in order to respond to unforeseen situations or to new developments and needs , the commission may , within the annual budgetary procedure , deviate from the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 up to a maximum of 10% . no such deviation shall be allowed in respect of the amounts referred to in points of paragraph 2 of this article and the total amount set out for part ' strengthening the european research area ' of paragraph 2 of this article . ### in order to respond to unforeseen situations or to new developments and needs , the commission may , within the annual budgetary procedure , deviate from the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 up to a maximum of 5% through transfers between points and subparagraphs of paragraph 2 . no such deviation shall be allowed in respect of the amounts referred to in points of paragraph 2 of this article and the total amount set out for part ' european research area ' of paragraph 2 of this article .


### the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' should be established through clusters of research and innovation activities , in order to maximise integration across the respective work areas while securing high and sustainable levels of impact in relation to the resources that are expended . it will encourage cross - disciplinary , cross - sectoral , cross - policy and cross - border collaboration in pursuit of the un sdgs and the competitiveness of the union ' s industries therein . ### the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' should be established through clusters of research and innovation activities , with a particular focus on supporting small and medium - sized enterprises , especially those developed by young people , in order to maximise integration across the respective work areas while securing high and sustainable levels of impact in relation to the resources that are expended . it will encourage cross - disciplinary , cross - sectoral , cross - policy , cross - border and cross - regional collaboration in pursuit of the un sdgs , the competitiveness of the union ' s industries , as well as of its cities and regions and the eu’s commitments under the paris agreement .


### adhere to the principles of union added value , transparency , openness , impact , leverage effect , long - term financial commitment of all the involved parties , flexibility , coherence and complementarity with union , local , regional national and international initiatives ; ### adhere to the principles of union added value , transparency , openness , impact , leverage effect , harmonious development long - term financial commitment of all the , involved parties , flexibility , coherence , compatibility and complementarity with union , local , regional , national and international initiatives ;


### unless the work programme provides otherwise , proposals shall include a plan for the exploitation and dissemination of the results . if the expected exploitation entails developing , creating , manufacturing and marketing a product or process , or in creating and providing a service , the plan shall include a strategy for such exploitation . if the plan provides for exploitation primarily in non - associated third countries , the legal entities shall explain how that exploitation is still in the union interest . ### unless the work programme provides otherwise , proposals shall include a plan for the exploitation and dissemination of the results . if the expected exploitation entails developing , creating , manufacturing and marketing a product or process , or in creating and providing a service , the plan shall include a strategy for such exploitation . if the plan provides for exploitation primarily in non - associated third countries , the legal entities shall justify how that exploitation is still in the union interest . if the beneficiary fails to provide such justification , a non - exclusive licence may be granted to other legal entities seeking to exploit the results in the union or associated third countries . for the purposes of locating and selecting the candidates , the online platform referred to in article 35 shall be used .


### cluster ' food and natural resources ' : protecting , restoring , sustainably managing and using natural and biological resources from land and sea to address food and nutrition security and the transition to a low carbon , resource efficient circular economy . ### cluster ' agriculture , food and natural resources ' : protecting , restoring , sustainably managing and using natural and biological resources from land and water to address food and nutrition security and the transition to a low carbon , resource efficient circular economy .


### the policy objectives of this programme will be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the policy windows of the investeu fund . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market . actions should have a clear european added value . ### the policy objectives of this programme may be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the policy windows of the investeu fund . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate and transparent manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market . actions should have a clear european added value and decisively contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the eu , maximising the commercial and societal benefits of the results achieved through research and innovation and also facilitate quality employment .


### resources allocated to member states under shared management and transferrable in accordance with article 21 of regulation xx [ …common provisions regulation ] may , at their request , be transferred to the programme . the commission shall implement those resources directly in accordance with point of article 62 of the financial regulation or indirectly in accordance with point of that article . where possible , those resources shall be used for the benefit of the member state concerned . ### resources allocated to member states under shared management from the european regional development fund and the european social fund + may , in justified cases , at the request of a member state , be transferred to specific projects under the programme , under the condition that they contribute to the objectives of the programme from which the transfer stems . the commission shall implement those resources directly in accordance with point of article 62 of the financial regulation or indirectly in accordance with point of that article . those resources shall be used for the benefit of the member state concerned .


### the programme shall ensure the effective promotion of gender equality and the gender dimension in research and innovation content . particular attention shall be paid to ensuring gender balance , subject to the situation in the field of research and innovation concerned , in evaluation panels and in bodies such as expert groups . ### the programme shall ensure the effective promotion of gender equality and the gender dimension in research and innovation content , by addressing the underlying causes of gender imbalance , including the gender pay gap , and by exploiting the full potential of both female and male researchers . gender balance shall be promoted , subject to the specific situation in the field of research and innovation concerned , in evaluation panels and in other advisory bodies such as expert groups .


### ' mission ' means a portfolio of actions intended to achieve a measurable goal within a set timeframe , and impact for science and technology and / or society and citizens that could not be achieved through individual actions ; ### ' mission ' means a portfolio of cross - cluster excellence - driven r&i actions intended to achieve a measurable goal within a set timeframe , and impact for science and technology and / or society and citizens that could not be achieved through individual actions ;


### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 , first half sentence , may also cover expenses for preparation , monitoring , control , audit , evaluation and other activities and expenditures necessary for managing and implementing the programme , including all administrative expenditure , as well as evaluating the achievement of its objectives . it may moreover cover expenses relating to the studies , meetings of experts , information and communication actions , in so far as they are related to the objectives of the programme , as well as expenses linked to information technology networks focusing on information processing and exchange , including corporate information technology tools and other technical and administrative assistance needed in connection with the management of the programme . ### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 , first half sentence , may also cover expenses for preparation , monitoring , control , audit , evaluation and other activities and expenditures necessary for managing and implementing the programme , including all necessary and agreed administrative expenditure , as well as evaluating the achievement of its objectives . it may moreover cover expenses relating to the meetings of experts , information and communication actions , in so far as they are related to the objectives of the programme , increasing the visibility of the programme , as well as expenses linked to information technology networks focusing on information processing and exchange , including corporate information technology tools , and other relevant expenses relating to technical and administrative assistance needed in connection with the management of the programme .


### by derogation from article 237 of the financial regulation , external experts may be selected without a call for expressions of interest , if justified and the selection is carried out in a transparent manner . ### by derogation from article 237 of the financial regulation , independent external experts may exceptionally be selected without a call for expressions of interest , if justified and the selection is carried out in a transparent manner . such experts will need to prove their independence and capacity to support the european long - term rdi objectives .


### be centered on ambitious but realistic research and innovation activities ; ### be selected in a transparent manner and be centered on ambitious but realistic research and innovation activities ;


### the eit , primarily through its knowledge and innovation communities , should aim at strengthening innovation ecosystems that tackle global challenges , by fostering the integration of business , research , higher education and entrepreneurship . the eit should foster innovation in its activities and should support the integration of higher education within the innovation ecosystem , in particular by : stimulating entrepreneurial education , fostering strong non - disciplinary collaborations between industry and academia ; and identifying prospective skills for future innovators to address global challenges , which includes advanced digital and innovation skills . support schemes provided by the eit should benefit to eic beneficiaries , while start - ups emerging from eit kics should have access to eic actions . while the eit’s focus on innovation ecosystems should make it naturally fit within the pillar ' open innovation ' , the planning of its kics should be aligned through the strategic planning process with the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' . ### the eit , primarily through its knowledge and innovation communities , should aim at strengthening innovation ecosystems that tackle global challenges , by fostering the integration of business , research , higher education and entrepreneurship . the eit should foster innovation in its activities and should support the integration of higher education within the innovation ecosystem , in particular by : stimulating entrepreneurial education , fostering strong non - disciplinary collaborations between industry and academia ; and identifying prospective skills for future innovators to address global challenges , which includes advanced digital and innovation skills . local and regional authorities could contribute by supporting the creation and operation of innovation groups . support schemes provided by the eit should benefit to eic beneficiaries , while start - ups emerging from eit kics should have access to eic actions . while the eit’s focus on innovation ecosystems should make it naturally fit within the pillar ‘ innovative europe’ , the planning of its kics should be aligned through the strategic planning process with the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' .


### the commission ' s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries ' participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 . ### the commission ' s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) and the european parliament resolution of 13 june 2017 on the assessment of horizon 2020 implementation in view of its interim evaluation and the framework programme 9 proposal 0253 ) have provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape in order to fully use the rdi potential of all member states , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries ' participation while safeguarding eu interest and pursue further simplification to support faster innovation cycles and lower administrative burden for applicants , especially for smes and for beneficiaries and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 .


### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries’ participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 . ### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . it is stated in the evaluation that the previous programme was clearly underfunded given the number of proposals put forward that were deemed to have exceeded the stringent quality threshold , and it is estimated that applicants spent eur 643 million preparing the proposals . the recommendations put forward include : invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; support breakthrough innovation ; prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; develop more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to participation by third countries ; and continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 .


### the programme ' s general objective is to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact from the union ' s investments in research and innovation so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the union and foster its competitiveness , including in its industry , deliver on the union strategic priorities , and contribute to tackling global challenges , including the sustainable development goals . ### the programme ' s general objective is to deliver scientific , technological , economic and societal impact from the union ' s investments in research and innovation so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the union , and foster eu competitiveness , including in its industry , deliver on the union strategic priorities and policies , contribute to tackling global societal challenges , as set out in the sustainable development goals , and achieve a balanced european research area . the objectives will take into consideration societal concerns and implications to contribute to a knowledge - based learning society and strengthen shared values , acceptance of scientific insights and social cohesion .


### eur 1 700 000 000 for ' sharing excellence ' ; ### eur 6 000 000 000 for ' spreading excellence and widening participation ' ;


### in order to achieve the greatest possible impact of union funding and the most effective contribution to the union ' s policy objectives , the programme should enter into european partnerships with private and / or public sector partners . such partners include industry , research organisations , bodies with a public service mission at local , regional , national or international level , and civil society organisations such as foundations that support and / or carry out research and innovation , provided that desired impacts can be achieved more effectively in partnership than by the union alone . ### in order to achieve the greatest possible impact of union funding and the most effective contribution to the union ' s policy objectives and fulfilment of its commitments , the programme should enter into european partnerships with private and / or public sector partners . such partners include industry , producer groups where appropriate , research organisations , local and regional authorities and other bodies with a public service mission at local , regional , national or international level , and both national and international civil society organisations such as foundations , including regional innovation ecosystems , where appropriate , that support and / or carry out research and innovation , provided that desired impacts can be achieved more effectively in partnership than by the union alone . territorial diversity should also be considered where appropriate , in order to exploit the potential of the different territories in the eu at its best .


### eur 2 100 000 000 for part ' strengthening the european research area ' for the period 2021 - 2027 , of which ### eur 9 400 000 000 for part ' strengthening the european research area ' for the period 2021 - 2027 , of which


### in order to respond to unforeseen situations or to new developments and needs , the commission may , within the annual budgetary procedure , deviate from the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 up to a maximum of 10% . no such deviation shall be allowed in respect of the amounts referred to in points of paragraph 2 of this article and the total amount set out for part ' strengthening the european research area ' of paragraph 2 of this article . ### in order to respond to unforeseen situations or to new developments and needs , the commission may , within the annual budgetary procedure , deviate from the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 up to a maximum of 5% , including the allocation of the contributions from associated countries . no negative deviation shall be allowed in respect of the amounts referred to in points and of paragraph 2 of this article and the total amount set out for cross - cutting part ' strengthening the european research area ' of paragraph 2 of this article .


### it is the union ' s objective to strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness , including in its industry , while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the union ' s strategic priorities , which ultimately aim at promoting peace , the union ' s values and the well - being of its peoples . ### it is the union ' s objective to promote social progress , strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage sustainability and resilience of its society and its competitiveness , including in its industry , while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the union ' s strategic priorities and fulfil its commitments , which aim at tackling global societal challenges and promoting peace , the union ' s values , the well - being of its peoples and sustainable development .


### cluster ' climate , energy and mobility ' : fighting climate change by better understanding its causes , evolution , risks , impacts and opportunities , and by making the energy and transport sectors more climate and environment - friendly , more efficient and competitive , smarter , safer and more resilient . ### cluster ' climate , energy and mobility ' : fighting climate change by better understanding its causes , evolution , risks , impacts and opportunities , ; and by making the energy and transport sectors more climate and environment - friendly , more resource and energy efficient , competitive , smarter , safer and more resilient ; and promoting the use of renewable energy and the circular economy in order to achieve 2050 low - carbon economy goals .


### it is important to support industry to stay or become world leader in innovation , digitisation and decarbonisation , notably through investments in key enabling technologies that will underpin tomorrow ' s business . the programme ' s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear european added value . this will ensure consistency between the actions of the programme and eu state aid rules , avoiding undue distortions of competition in the internal market . ### it is important to support industry to stay or become world leader in new technologies and innovation , including in eco - innovation , resource and energy efficient processes , digitisation and decarbonisation , notably through investments in key enabling technologies that will underpin tomorrow ' s business and will also contribute to the transition towards a net - zero carbon economy by 2050 . the programme ' s actions should support technological development necessary to enforce the eu’s industry on an increasingly competitive global market and be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear european added value , fair return on investments and should also foster quality employment . this will ensure consistency between the actions of the programme and eu state aid rules , avoiding undue distortions of competition in the internal market .


### entities shall be part of a consortium that shall include at least three independent legal entities each established in a different member state or associated country and with at least one of them established in a member state , unless : ### entities shall be part of a consortium that shall include at least three independent legal entities , each established in a different member state or associated country and with at least two of them established in a member state , unless :


### horizon europe activities shall be primarily delivered through calls for proposals , some of which organised as parts of missions and european partnerships . ### horizon europe activities shall be primarily delivered through calls for proposals , also organised as parts of missions and european partnerships .


### the joint owners shall agree in writing on the allocation and terms of exercise of their joint ownership . unless otherwise agreed , each joint owner may grant non - exclusive licences to third parties to exploit the jointly - owned results , if the other joint owners are given advance notice and fair and reasonable compensation . the joint owners may agree in writing to apply another regime than joint ownership . ### the joint owners shall agree in writing on the allocation and terms of exercise of their joint ownership . unless otherwise agreed in the consortium agreement and / or in the joint ownership agreement , each joint owner may grant non - exclusive licences to third parties to exploit the jointly - owned results , if the other joint owners are given advance notice and fair and reasonable compensation . the joint owners may agree in writing to apply another regime than joint ownership .


### for actions related to union strategic assets , interests , autonomy or security , the work programme may provide that the participation can be limited to those legal entities established in member states only , or to those legal entities established in specified associated or other third countries in addition to member states . ### for actions related to union strategic assets , interests , autonomy or security , the work programme may provide that the participation can be limited to those legal entities established in member states and eea efta member states only , or to those legal entities established in specified associated countries in addition to member states and eea efta member states .


### where appropriate , indirect costs included in unit costs or lump sums shall be calculated using the flat rate set out in paragraph 1 , except for unit costs for internally invoiced goods and services which shall be calculated on the basis of actual costs , in accordance with the beneficiaries ' usual costs accounting practices . ### where appropriate , instead of using the flat rate set out in paragraph 1 , indirect costs can be determined by unit costs for internally invoiced goods and services which shall be calculated on the basis of actual costs , in accordance with the beneficiaries ' usual costs accounting practices .


### the work programme may provide for additional dissemination obligations . ### the work programme may provide for additional dissemination obligations while safeguarding eu’s economic & scientific interests .


### the policy objectives of this programme will be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the policy windows of the investeu fund . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market . actions should have a clear european added value . ### the policy objectives of this programme may be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the policy windows of the investeu fund . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate and transparent manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market . actions should have a clear european added value and decisively contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the eu , maximising the commercial and societal benefits of the results achieved through research and innovation and also facilitate quality employment .


### at the end of the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in article 1 , a final evaluation of the programme shall be completed by the commission . it shall include an assessment of the long - term impact of previous framework programmes . ### at the end of the implementation of the programme , by 30 june 2029 , a final evaluation of the programme shall be completed by the commission . it shall include an assessment of the long - term impact of previous framework programmes .


### the activities developed under the programme should aim at eliminating gender inequalities and promoting equality between women and men in research and innovation , in compliance with articles 2 and 3 of the treaty on european union and article 8 of the tfeu . the gender dimension should be adequately integrated in research and innovation content and followed through at all stages of the research cycle . ### the activities developed under the programme should aim at eliminating gender inequalities and ensuring equality between women and men in research and innovation , in compliance with articles 2 and 3 of the treaty on european union and article 8 of the tfeu . the gender dimension should be adequately integrated in research and innovation content and followed through at all stages of the research cycle , applying equal remuneration and , where possible , equal participation in the projects presented .


### areas of intervention : sharing excellence ; reforming and enhancing the european r&i system . ### areas of intervention : spreading excellence ; reforming and enhancing the european r&i system .


### the missions shall be implemented in accordance with article 5 of the specific programme . evaluation shall be carried out in accordance with article 26 . ### the content of missions and their implementation shall be adopted by the commissions with the agreement of the european parliament in accordance with the procedure defined in article 5 of the specific programme . their objectives , funding , targets and timelines shall be further specified in the strategic p&i plan . evaluation shall be carried out in accordance with article 26 .


### open access to research data shall be the general rule under the terms and conditions laid down in the grant agreement , but exceptions shall apply if justified , taking into consideration the legitimate interests of the beneficiaries and any other constraints , such as data protection rules , security rules or intellectual property rights . ### with regard to the dissemination of research data , the grant agreement shall , in the context of fair open access to and the preservation of research data , lay down terms and conditions under which fair access to such results shall be provided , ensuring robust and simple opt - outs following the principle “as open as possible , as closed as necessary” . exceptions shall apply if justified , taking into consideration the legitimate interests of the beneficiaries and any other constraints , such as data protection rules , privacy , confidentiality , security rules , trade secrets , legitimate commercial interests or intellectual property rights or union’s external competitiveness .


### the commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the programme , and its actions and results . financial resources allocated to the programme shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in article 3 . ### the commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the programme , and its actions and results in accordance with the eu corporate communication strategy .


### the work programme may provide for additional obligations to adhere to open science practices . ### the work programme may provide for additional incentives to adhere to open science practices .


### areas of intervention : environmental observation ; biodiversity and natural capital ; agriculture , forestry and rural areas ; sea and oceans ; food systems ; bio - based innovation systems ; circular systems ### areas of intervention : environmental observation ; biodiversity and nature conservation and restoration ; sustainably managed agriculture , forestry and rural areas ; sea and oceans and blue economy ; agro - ecological food systems ; bio - based innovation systems ; circular systems


### to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - a framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges and promote industrial competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area . ### to deliver scientific , economic , climate and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - a framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies within and outside the union , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies and commitments , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to improve human well - being and to address global challenges , notably the sdgs and the paris agreement and promote industrial competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area .


### the key elements of the proposal evaluation and selection system of the predecessor programme horizon 2020 with its particular focus on excellence should be maintained . proposals should continue to be selected based on the evaluation made by independent experts . where relevant , the necessity to ensure the overall coherence of the portfolio of projects should be taken into account . ### the key elements of the proposal evaluation and selection system of the predecessor programme horizon 2020 with its particular focus on excellence should be maintained , while ensuring , where appropriate a more balanced geographical inclusion of the member states and regions . proposals should continue to be selected based on the evaluation made by independent experts stemming from as many member states as possible . where relevant , the necessity to ensure the overall coherence of the portfolio of projects should be taken into account . the selection of experts should take into account the need to ensure a multidisciplinary approach , including experts with social science and humanities background , gender equality and reflect a wide range of knowledge and views .


### in addition to paragraphs 2 and 3 of article 38 of the financial regulation , the names of external experts evaluating grant applications , who are appointed in a personal capacity shall be published , together with their area of expertise , at least once a year on the internet site of the commission or the funding body . such information shall be collected , processed and published in accordance with the eu data protection rules . ### in addition to paragraphs 2 and 3 of article 38 of the financial regulation , the names of independent external experts evaluating grant applications , who are appointed in a personal capacity shall be published , together with their area of expertise , at least once a year on the internet site of the commission or the funding body . such information shall be collected , processed and published in accordance with the eu data protection rules .


### areas of intervention : democracy ; cultural heritage ; social and economic transformations ; disaster - resilient societies ; protection and security ; cybersecurity ### areas of intervention : democracy ; cultural heritage and tourism ; social and economic transformations ; disaster - resilient societies ; protection and security ; cybersecurity .


### in actions under the cluster ‘ inclusive and secure society’ , area of intervention ‘ protection and security’ , beneficiaries having received union funding shall also grant access to their results on a royalty - free basis to member states ' national authorities , for developing , implementing and monitoring their policies or programmes in that area . access shall be limited to non - commercial and non - competitive use and shall be granted upon bilateral agreement defining specific conditions aimed at ensuring that those rights will be used only for the intended purpose and that appropriate confidentiality obligations will be in place . the requesting member state , union institution , body , office or agency shall notify all member states of such requests . ### in actions under the cluster ‘ inclusive and secure society’ , area of intervention ‘ protection and security’ , beneficiaries having received union funding shall also grant access to their results on a royalty - free basis to member states ' national authorities , for developing , implementing and monitoring their policies or programmes in that area . access shall be limited to non - commercial and non - competitive use and shall be granted upon bilateral agreement defining specific conditions aimed at ensuring that those rights will be used only for the intended purpose and that appropriate confidentiality obligations will be in place . such access rights shall not extend to the participants background . the requesting member state , union institution , body , office or agency shall notify all member states of such requests .


### the programme shall ensure the effective promotion of gender equality and the gender dimension in research and innovation content . particular attention shall be paid to ensuring gender balance , subject to the situation in the field of research and innovation concerned , in evaluation panels and in bodies such as expert groups . ### the programme shall ensure the effective promotion of gender equality and the gender dimension in research and innovation content , by addressing the underlying causes of gender imbalance , including the gender pay gap , and by exploiting the full potential of both female and male researchers . gender balance shall be promoted , subject to the specific situation in the field of research and innovation concerned , in evaluation panels and in other advisory bodies such as expert groups .


### it is the union ' s objective to strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness , including in its industry , while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the union ' s strategic priorities , which ultimately aim at promoting peace , the union ' s values and the well - being of its peoples . ### it is the union ' s objective to promote the sustainable progress and the resilience of its society by strengthening its scientific and technological bases , encourage its competitiveness , including in its industry , and at the same time achieving a free movement european research area in which researchers , scientific knowledge and technology circulate without barriers , while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the union ' s strategic priorities , which ultimately aim at promoting peace , sustainable development , the union ' s values and the well - being of its peoples .


### missions shall be programmed within the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' , but may also benefit from actions carried out within other parts of the programme . ### missions shall be programmed within the pillar ' competitiveness ' , but may also benefit from actions carried out within other parts of the programme .


### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through international cooperation , in line with the un sustainable development goals . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim . ### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through targeted international cooperation , in line with the un sustainable development goals and the paris agreement . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim .


### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefit and global commitments to implement the un sdgs . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s research and innovation excellence , attractiveness and economic and industrial competitiveness , to tackle global challenges , as embodied in the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions should be followed , including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted . ### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefits and global commitments to implement the un sdgs and the paris agreement . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s excellence in research and innovation , in particular eco - innovation , attractiveness and economic and industrial sustainability and competitiveness , to tackle global social challenges , as embodied in the paris agreement and the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies with a special focus on reduction and eradication of poverty . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions including with low - and middle income countries , should be followed . appropriate eligibility criteria concerning different levels of r&i capacities for funding of entities in low to middle income countries should be applied . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted in order to encourage the contribution of worldwide talent to the delivery of the programme .


### the contractor generating results in pre - commercial procurement shall own at least the attached intellectual property rights . the contracting authorities shall enjoy at least royalty - free access rights to the results for their own use and the right to grant , or require the participating contractors to grant , non - exclusive licences to third parties to exploit the results for the contracting authority under fair and reasonable conditions without any right to sub - license . if a contractor fails to commercially exploit the results within a given period after the pre - commercial procurement as identified in the contract , the contracting authorities can require it to transfer any ownership of the results to the contracting authorities . ### the contractor generating results in pre - commercial procurement shall own at least the attached intellectual property rights . the contracting authorities shall royalty - free access rights to the results for their own use . if a contractor fails to commercially exploit the results within a given period after the pre - commercial procurement as identified in the contract , the contracting authorities shall consult with the contractor and investigate the reasons for such lack of exploitation . after such consultation , the contracting authority can require it to transfer any ownership or licence of the results to the contracting authorities .


### activities supported under the programme should contribute towards the achievement of the union ' s objectives and priorities , the monitoring and assessment of progress against those objectives and priorities and for the development of revised or new priorities . ### activities supported under the programme should contribute towards the achievement of the union ' s objectives and priorities and the fulfilment of its commitments , the monitoring and assessment of progress against those objectives , priorities and commitments and for the development of revised or new priorities .


### in the case of institutionalised european partnerships , the financial and / or in - kind , contributions from partners other than the union , will at least be equal to 50% and may reach up to 75% of the aggregated european partnership budgetary commitments . for each institutionalised european partnership , a share of the contributions from partners other than the union will be in the form of financial contributions . ### in the case of institutionalised european partnerships , the financial and / or in - kind , contributions from partners other than the union , will at least be equal to 50% and may reach up to 75% of the aggregated european partnership budgetary commitments .


### for actions related to union strategic assets , interests , autonomy or security , the work programme may provide that the participation can be limited to those legal entities established in member states only , or to those legal entities established in specified associated or other third countries in addition to member states . ### for actions related to union strategic assets , interests , autonomy or security , the work programme may provide that the participation can be limited to those legal entities established in member states and eea efta member states only , or to those legal entities established in specified associated countries in addition to member states and eea efta member states .


### the programme is expected to have societal impact by addressing eu policy priorities through r&i , delivering benefits and impact through r&i missions and strengthening the uptake of innovation in society . progress towards this impact will be monitored through proxy indicators set along the following four key impact pathways . ### the programme is expected to have societal impact by addressing global challenges and eu policy priorities and commitments through r&i , delivering benefits and impact through r&i missions and strengthening the uptake of innovation in society through cso and citizens involvement ultimately contributing to people ' s well - being . progress towards this impact will be monitored through proxy indicators set along the following four key impact pathways .


### open access to research data shall be the general rule under the terms and conditions laid down in the grant agreement , but exceptions shall apply if justified , taking into consideration the legitimate interests of the beneficiaries and any other constraints , such as data protection rules , security rules or intellectual property rights . ### with regard to the dissemination of research data , the grant agreement shall , in the context of fair open access to and the preservation of research data , lay down terms and conditions under which fair access to such results shall be provided , ensuring opt - outs following the principle “as open as possible , as closed as necessary” . exceptions shall apply if justified , taking into consideration the legitimate interests of the beneficiaries and any other constraints , such as data protection rules , privacy , confidentiality , security rules , trade secrets , legitimate commercial interests or intellectual property rights or union’s external competitiveness .


### coordination and support actions may be implemented by one or more legal entities , which may be established in a member state , associated country or in another third country . ### support actions may be implemented by one or more legal entities , which may be established in a member state or associated country .


### areas of intervention : climate science and solutions ; energy supply ; energy systems and grids ; buildings and industrial facilities in energy transition ; communities and cities ; industrial competitiveness in transport ; clean transport and mobility ; smart mobility ; energy storage . ### areas of intervention : climate science and solutions ; energy supply ; energy systems and grids ; buildings and industrial facilities in energy transition ; energy efficient buildings ; renewable energy ; communities and cities ; remote and outermost regions ; oceans ; industrial competitiveness and / or sustainability in transport ; clean transport and mobility ; smart mobility , including low and zero - emission vehicles and refuel and recharging infrastructure deployment ; cross - border interconnection ; energy storage .


### only the criterion referred to in point of paragraph 1 shall apply to proposals for erc frontier research actions . ### only the excellence criterion referred to in in the introductory part of paragraph 1 shall apply to proposals for erc frontier research actions .


### areas of intervention : democracy ; cultural heritage ; social and economic transformations ; disaster - resilient societies ; protection and security ; cybersecurity ### areas of intervention : democracy , e - democracy and fundamental rights ; culture and cultural heritage ; media literacy ; education ; social and economic transformations ; cultural and creative industries and sectors ; accessibility for persons with disabilities to all products and services


### in order to respond to unforeseen situations or to new developments and needs , the commission may , within the annual budgetary procedure , deviate from the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 up to a maximum of 10% . no such deviation shall be allowed in respect of the amounts referred to in points of paragraph 2 of this article and the total amount set out for part ' strengthening the european research area ' of paragraph 2 of this article . ### in order to ensure that europe remains at the forefront of global research and innovation in the digital field and to take account of the necessity to step up investments to benefit from growing opportunities of digital technologies , at least €16 billion of the total budget of the framework programme will be allocated to core digital priorities .


### if necessary , appropriations may be entered in the budget beyond 2027 to cover the expenses provided for in paragraph 4 , to enable the management of actions not completed by 31 december 2027 . ### if agreed by the budgetary authority , appropriations may be entered in the budget beyond 2027 to cover the expenses provided for in paragraph 4 , to enable the management of actions not completed by 31 december 2027 .


### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 , first half sentence , may also cover expenses for preparation , monitoring , control , audit , evaluation and other activities and expenditures necessary for managing and implementing the programme , including all administrative expenditure , as well as evaluating the achievement of its objectives . it may moreover cover expenses relating to the studies , meetings of experts , information and communication actions , in so far as they are related to the objectives of the programme , as well as expenses linked to information technology networks focusing on information processing and exchange , including corporate information technology tools and other technical and administrative assistance needed in connection with the management of the programme . ### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 , first half sentence , may also cover expenses for preparation , monitoring , control , audit , evaluation and other activities and expenditures necessary for managing and implementing the programme , including all necessary and agreed administrative expenditure , as well as evaluating the achievement of its objectives . it may moreover cover expenses relating to the meetings of experts , information and communication actions , in so far as they are related to the objectives of the programme , increasing the visibility of the programme , as well as expenses linked to information technology networks focusing on information processing and exchange , including corporate information technology tools , and other relevant expenses relating to technical and administrative assistance needed in connection with the management of the programme .


### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries’ participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 . ### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . it is stated in the evaluation that the previous programme was clearly underfunded given the number of proposals put forward that were deemed to have exceeded the stringent quality threshold , and it is estimated that applicants spent eur 643 million preparing the proposals . the recommendations put forward include : invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; support breakthrough innovation ; prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; develop more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to participation by third countries ; and continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 .


### eur 52 700 000 000 for pillar ii ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' for the period 2021 - 2027 , of which ### eur 72 000 000 000 for pillar ii ' global european challenges and industrial competitiveness ' for the period 2021 - 2027 , of which


### for activities making use of human embryonic stem cells , as appropriate , details of licensing and control measures that shall be taken by the competent authorities of the member states concerned as well as details of the ethics approvals that shall be obtained before the activities concerned start . ### for activities making use of human embryonic stem cells or animals , as appropriate , details of licensing and control measures that shall be taken by the competent authorities of the member states concerned as well as details of the ethics approvals that shall be obtained before the activities concerned start .


### the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' should be established through clusters of research and innovation activities , in order to maximise integration across the respective work areas while securing high and sustainable levels of impact in relation to the resources that are expended . it will encourage cross - disciplinary , cross - sectoral , cross - policy and cross - border collaboration in pursuit of the un sdgs and the competitiveness of the union ' s industries therein . ### european research priorities extend beyond scientific ambitions . they include support for human well - being , environmental stability and economic sustainability . the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' should be established through clusters of research and innovation activities , in order to maximise integration across the respective work areas while securing high and sustainable levels of impact in relation to the resources that are expended . it will also facilitate the development of appropriate metrics and evaluation criteria methodologies to measure policy and programme impact on all dimensions of sustainable development , including human development .


### actions which are not ethically acceptable may be rejected or terminated at any time . ### actions which are not ethically acceptable shall be immediately rejected or terminated .


### the work programme may provide for eligibility criteria in addition to those set out in paragraphs 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 according to specific policy requirements or to the nature and objectives of the action , including the number of legal entities , the type of legal entity and the place of establishment . ### the work programme may provide for eligibility criteria in addition to those set out in paragraphs 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 according to specific policy requirements or to the nature and objectives of the action .


### the programme should maintain a balanced approach between bottom - up and top - down funding , according to the nature of the research and innovation communities that are engaged , the types and purpose of the activities carried out and the impacts that are sought . the mix of these factors should determine the choice of approach for the respective parts of the programme , all of which contribute to all of the programme’s general and specific objectives . ### the programme should maintain a balanced approach between bottom - up , top - down and territorially balanced funding , according to the nature of the research and innovation communities that are engaged , the types and purpose of the activities carried out and the impacts that are sought . the mix of these factors should determine the choice of approach for the respective parts of the programme , all of which contribute to all of the programme’s general and specific objectives .


### the conditions determining the level of financial contribution shall ensure an automatic correction of any significant imbalance compared to the amount that entities established in the associated country receive through participation in the programme , taking into account the costs in the management , execution and operation of the programme . ### every two years , the conditions determining the level of financial contribution shall ensure an automatic correction of any significant imbalance compared to the amount that entities established in the associated country receive through participation in the programme , taking into account the costs in the management , execution and operation of the programme .


### areas of intervention : climate science and solutions ; energy supply ; energy systems and grids ; buildings and industrial facilities in energy transition ; communities and cities ; industrial competitiveness in transport ; clean transport and mobility ; smart mobility ; energy storage . ### areas of intervention : climate science and solutions ; energy supply ; energy systems and grids ; buildings and industrial facilities in energy transition ; smart communities and cities ; industrial competitiveness in transport ; clean transport and mobility ; smart mobility ; energy storage ; safe mobility .


### in accordance with the contract , the action shall be suspended , amended or terminated if milestones are not met . it may also be terminated where the expected market deployment cannot be met . ### in accordance with the contract , the action shall be suspended , amended or terminated if measurable milestones are not met . it may also be terminated where the expected market deployment in the union cannot be met .


### with the aim of deepening the relationship between science and society and maximising benefits of their interactions , the programme should engage and involve citizens and civil society organisations in co - designing and co - creating responsible research and innovation agendas and contents , promoting science education , making scientific knowledge publicly accessible , and facilitating participation by citizens and civil society organisations in its activities . it should do so across the programme and through dedicated activities in the part ' strengthening the european research area ' . the engagement of citizens and civil society in research and innovation should be coupled with public outreach activities to generate and sustain public support for the programme . the programme should also seek to remove barriers and boost synergies between science , technology , culture and the arts to obtain a new quality of sustainable innovation . ### with the aim of deepening the relationship between science and society and maximising benefits of their interactions across europe , the programme should engage and involve citizens , academia , including universities and research centres and civil society organisations in a partnership whose aim is co - designing and co - creating responsible research and innovation agendas and contents , promoting science education , making scientific knowledge publicly accessible , and facilitating participation by citizens and civil society organisations in its activities , as well as encouraging the existence of fair remuneration systems for researchers . it should do so across the programme , including through multi - actor approach and through dedicated activities in the part ' strengthening the european research area ' . the programme “science with and for society” is a good example of building capacities and developing innovative ways of connecting science to society as well as making science more attractive . the engagement of citizens and civil society in research and innovation should be coupled with public outreach activities involving local and regional bodies and organisations to generate and sustain public support for the programme and a communication strategy regarding research and innovation funding opportunities . the programme should also seek to remove barriers and boost synergies between science , technology , culture and the arts to obtain a new quality of sustainable innovation .


### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefit and global commitments to implement the un sdgs . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s research and innovation excellence , attractiveness and economic and industrial competitiveness , to tackle global challenges , as embodied in the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions should be followed , including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted . ### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefits and global commitments to implement the un sdgs and the paris agreement . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s research and innovation excellence , including eco - innovation , attractiveness and economic and industrial sustainability and competitiveness , to tackle societal challenges , as embodied in the un sdgs and the paris agreement , and to support the union ' s external policies . an approach of general opening for fair access and international participation and targeted international cooperation actions should be followed , including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted . where appropriate , synergies with other programmes implemented by the eu with third countries and international organisation should be established .


### open access to scientific publications resulting from research funded under the programme shall be ensured in accordance with article 35 . open access to research data shall be ensured in line with the principle ' as open as possible , as closed as necessary ' . open access to other research outputs shall be encouraged . ### open and non - discriminatory access to scientific publications resulting from research funded under the programme shall be ensured in accordance with article 35 . open access to research data shall take into account the competitiveness and economic interests of the eu , intellectual property rights and the protection and confidentiality of personal data . reciprocal open access to research outputs shall be laid down in the association and cooperation agreements with third countries .


### only the criterion referred to in point of paragraph 1 shall apply to proposals for erc frontier research actions . ### only the excellence criterion referred to in in the introductory part of paragraph 1 shall apply to proposals for erc frontier research actions .


### be bold and inspirational , and hence have wide societal or economic relevance ; ### be bold and inspirational , and hence have wide societal or economic and territorial relevance ;


### the policy objectives of this programme will be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the policy windows of the investeu fund . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market . actions should have a clear european added value . ### the policy objectives of this programme may be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the policy windows of the investeu fund . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate and transparent manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market . actions should have a clear european added value and decisively contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the eu , maximising the commercial and societal benefits of the results achieved through research and innovation and also facilitate quality employment .


### may receive support from the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund + or the european agricultural fund for rural development , in accordance with paragraph 5 of article [ 67 ] of regulation xx [ common provisions regulation ] and article [ 8 ] or regulation xx [ financing , management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy ] , provided that such actions are consistent with the objectives of the programme concerned . the rules of the fund providing support shall apply . ### may receive support , on a voluntary basis , from the european regional development fund , the european social fund + or the european agricultural fund for rural development , in accordance with paragraph 5 of article [ 67 ] of regulation xx [ common provisions regulation ] and article [ 8 ] or regulation xx [ financing , management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy ] , under the conditions that they contribute to the objectives of the funds , where the funding stems from ; and provided that such actions are consistent and in line with the objectives of the programme concerned . the rules of the fund providing support shall apply , with the exception of the co - financing rate , where the co - financing rate of the programme shall apply .


### the evaluation committee may be assisted by independent experts . ### the evaluation committee shall be assisted by independent experts .


### the commission ' s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries ' participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 . ### the commission ' s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously and effectively in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries ' participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 .


### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries’ participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 . ### the commission’s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . it is stated in the evaluation that the previous programme was clearly underfunded given the number of proposals put forward that were deemed to have exceeded the stringent quality threshold , and it is estimated that applicants spent eur 643 million preparing the proposals . the recommendations put forward include : invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; support breakthrough innovation ; prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; develop more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to participation by third countries ; and continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 .


### “background” means any data , know - how or information whatever its form or nature , tangible or intangible , including any rights such as intellectual property rights , that is : held by beneficiaries prior to their accession to the action ; identified by the beneficiaries in writing in any manner as needed for implementing the action or for exploiting its results ; ### “background” means any data , know - how or information whatever its form or nature , tangible or intangible , including any rights such as intellectual property rights , that is : held by beneficiaries prior to their accession to the action ; and identified by the beneficiaries in a written agreement as needed for implementing the action or for exploiting its results ;


### to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , and support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges ; ### to strengthen the eu added value of rdi funding and the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , including cohesion policy , objectives and in fulfilling commitments , in particular the un sdgs and the paris agreement , as well as to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry , with a focus on smes , and society to address global challenges and significantly improve the quality of life of citizens ;


### if despite a beneficiary ' s best efforts to exploit its results directly or indirectly no exploitation takes place within a given period as identified in the grant agreement , the beneficiary shall use an appropriate online platform as identified in the grant agreement to find interested parties to exploit those results . if justified on the basis of a request of the beneficiary , this obligation may be waived . ### if despite a beneficiary ' s best efforts to exploit its results directly or indirectly no exploitation takes place within a given period as identified in the grant agreement , the beneficiary shall use an appropriate online platform as identified in the grant agreement to find interested parties within or outside the union to exploit those results . if justified on the basis of a request of the beneficiary , this obligation may be waived .


### open access to research data shall be the general rule under the terms and conditions laid down in the grant agreement , but exceptions shall apply if justified , taking into consideration the legitimate interests of the beneficiaries and any other constraints , such as data protection rules , security rules or intellectual property rights . ### with regard to the dissemination of research data , the grant agreement shall , in the context of fair open access to and the preservation of research data , lay down terms and conditions under which fair access to such results shall be provided , ensuring robust and simple opt - outs following the principle “as open as possible , as closed as necessary” . exceptions shall apply if justified , taking into consideration the legitimate interests of the beneficiaries and any other constraints , such as data protection rules , privacy , confidentiality , security rules , trade secrets , legitimate commercial interests or intellectual property rights or union’s external competitiveness .


### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefit and global commitments to implement the un sdgs . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s research and innovation excellence , attractiveness and economic and industrial competitiveness , to tackle global challenges , as embodied in the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions should be followed , including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted . ### the programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest , mutual benefit and global commitments to implement the un sdgs . international cooperation should aim to strengthen the union ' s research and innovation excellence , attractiveness and economic and industrial competitiveness , to tackle global challenges , as embodied in the un sdgs , and to support the union ' s external policies . an approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions , including low - and middle - income countries , should be followed , including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries . at the same time , association of third countries to the programme should be promoted .


### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through international cooperation , in line with the un sustainable development goals . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim . ### the conception and design of the programme should respond to the need for establishing a critical mass of supported activities , throughout the eu union and through targeted international cooperation , in line with the un sustainable development goals and the paris agreement . programme implementation should reinforce the pursuit of this aim .


### in order to respond to unforeseen situations or to new developments and needs , the commission may , within the annual budgetary procedure , deviate from the amounts referred to in paragraph 2 up to a maximum of 10% . no such deviation shall be allowed in respect of the amounts referred to in points of paragraph 2 of this article and the total amount set out for part ' strengthening the european research area ' of paragraph 2 of this article . ### in order to ensure that europe remains at the forefront of global research and innovation in the digital field and to take account of the necessity to step up investments to benefit from growing opportunities of digital technologies , at least €16 billion of the total budget of the framework programme will be allocated to core digital priorities .


### the commission ' s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) has provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries ' participation ; and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 . ### the commission ' s communication on the interim evaluation of horizon 2020 2 final ) and the european parliament resolution of 13 june 2017 on the assessment of horizon 2020 implementation in view of its interim evaluation and the framework programme 9 proposal 0253 ) have provided a set of recommendations for this programme , including its rules for participation and dissemination , building on the lessons learnt from the previous programme as well as input from eu institutions and stakeholders . those recommendations include to invest more ambitiously in order to reach critical mass and maximise impact ; to support breakthrough innovation ; to prioritise union research and innovation investments in areas of high added value , notably through mission - orientation , citizen involvement and wide communication ; to rationalise the union funding landscape in order to fully use the rdi potential of all member states , including by streamlining the range of partnership initiatives and co - funding schemes ; the development of more and concrete synergies between different union funding instruments , notably with the aim of helping to mobilise under - exploited r&i potential across the union ; to strengthen international cooperation and reinforce openness to third countries ' participation while safeguarding eu interest and pursue further simplification to support faster innovation cycles and lower administrative burden for applicants , especially for smes and for beneficiaries and to continue simplification based on implementation experiences from horizon 2020 .


### horizon europe and eic blended finance shall be provided in a manner that does not distort competition . ### horizon europe and eic blended finance shall be provided in a manner that promotes eu global competitiveness while avoiding distortion of competition .


### unless the work programme provides otherwise , proposals shall include a plan for the exploitation and dissemination of the results . if the expected exploitation entails developing , creating , manufacturing and marketing a product or process , or in creating and providing a service , the plan shall include a strategy for such exploitation . if the plan provides for exploitation primarily in non - associated third countries , the legal entities shall explain how that exploitation is still in the union interest . ### unless the work programme provides otherwise , proposals shall include a plan for the exploitation and dissemination of the results . if the expected exploitation entails developing , creating , manufacturing and marketing a product or process , or in creating and providing a service , the plan shall include a strategy for such exploitation , respecting eu scientific , financial , economic and technological interest .