The Cluster 4 work programme is designed to build a competitive, digital, low-carbon and circular industry, ensure sustainable supply of raw materials, develop advanced materials and provide the basis for advances and innovation in global challenges to society. It is divided into three main areas Digital, Industry and Space. The Cluster 4 work programme for 2026 has been published and the HADEA Space call has just opened. Barry Jennings, National Contact Point (NCP) for Horizon Europe Cluster 4 – Space, Enterprise Ireland discusses.
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Articles by Eva
Energy Innovation in 2026: What Global Trends Mean for Ireland and Horizon Europe
We are in a dynamic time for energy innovation. Today, the global markets for energy technologies such as batteries, wind turbines, electric vehicles and systems for industrial energy efficiency are worth trillions of Euros. Spending on energy represents as much as 10% of global GDP, so the outputs of research that can help boost energy supply, lower costs, and insulate us from external shocks, can be economically transformative. Brendan Cahill, National Contact Point, Cluster 5 – Energy discusses.
Read MoreThe European Innovation Council: novelties on Late-stage large-scale financing
Closing the late-stage financing gap is essential for the European Union to maintain its competitive edge in fast-moving disruptive technology sectors. Despite Europe retaining a strong global standing in driving innovation and creativity in several strategic industries, strong support is needed to ensure EU companies have access to large-scale financing. Daniela Angione, National Delegate & National Contact Point for EIC (European Innovation Council) highlights the EU’s renewed push to support high‑growth innovators through the European Innovation Council.
Read MoreEnterprise Ireland’s meeting spaces in Brussels: an opportunity to develop new opportunities and stronger funding applications
In Horizon Europe, the quality of the consortium and the strength of the collaboration are as important as the research excellence of the proposal itself. Consortium meetings, especially face‑to‑face ones, play a critical role in building the trust, alignment, and shared ambition needed to craft a winning application. Kevin Flynn, EU liaison for R&I, Brussels and National Delegate and National Contact Point for WIDERA, highlights Enterprise Ireland’s Brussels meeting spaces as a chance to build new opportunities and strengthen funding applications.
Read MoreUpdate on Cluster 4 – Digital
Cluster 4 (Digital, Industry & Space) is one of the largest clusters under Pillar two of Horizon Europe with an overall budget in excess of €15 billion. Irish participants have been doing very well in this area with over €168M in signed grant agreements to date. This equates to approx. 2% of the available budget. 103 Irish organisations are involved in 242 projects – this includes involvement in the “Chips” and “Smart Networks & Services” joint undertakings.
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