The UK government has launched a campaign to encourage greater participation in Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research collaboration programme, following discussions in Brussels between UK science and technology secretary Peter Kyle and European officials.
During his visit, Kyle met with European Commissioners to explore opportunities for deeper UK-EU scientific and technological collaboration.
The UK has also announced its membership in four European Research Infrastructure Consortia (ERICs), which will facilitate cross-border research in areas such as heritage science, astronomy and environmental studies.
Horizon Europe, backed by more than €380bn in European research and development (R&D) investment in 2023, represents a key opportunity for UK businesses and researchers.
The UK government’s renewed focus on participation aligns with its broader economic and technological priorities, including AI development, clean energy and healthcare innovation.
Kyle highlighted the importance of the UK’s engagement in European R&D, stating: “There is no question about it: we stand our best chance of tackling the great challenges of our era, from climate change to public health, to growing economies that work for everyone, by bringing the brightest minds from across the UK and the European Union together.”
To raise awareness, a nationwide advertising campaign will showcase UK businesses and research teams that have benefited from Horizon Europe funding.
Examples include Nova Innovation, which is developing tidal energy turbines, and Electra Commercial Vehicles, which is working on longer-range electric trucks.
Alongside the campaign, Innovate UK is organising roadshow events and international delegations to Italy, Germany and Spain to connect UK businesses and researchers with potential European partners and help them secure Horizon funding.
The UK’s participation in Horizon Europe has shown positive early results, with the country hosting the second-highest number of projects in the most recent European Research Council Synergy Grants.
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