On Thursday, the government announced that successful applicants for Horizon Europe grant awards will be guaranteed funding regardless of the outcome of the UK’s efforts to associate to Horizon Europe.
This move seeks to allay the fears of UK-based researchers, innovators and businesses who have been left uncertain by ongoing delays. The government has stressed that its priority is to remain a part of Horizon Europe as agreed with the EU under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) last year.
Science, Research and Innovation Minister George Freeman declared, “The Horizon programme has been a vital source of fellowships and collaborations for UK researchers over the years… this safety net will give researchers and their partners the certainty they need to continue to pursue their project plans and maintain world-class science”.
The funding will be delivered through UK Research and Innovation, which will publish further details about eligibility, scope and how to apply in the coming weeks.