Cluster 4 (Digital, Industry and Space) is one of the largest Horizon Europe Pillar II clusters, with a budget exceeding €15 billion. Irish participation has been strong, securing over €151 million through signed grants—around 2% of the total budget. To date, 100 Irish organisations are involved in 230 projects, including the Chips and Smart Networks and Services joint undertakings.
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Articles by Eva
European Research Council: Highlights, Transformative Changes and Future Directions
With the 2026 European Research Council work programme due for adoption and publication in July, spring and early summer have brought multiple updates on current and future ERC calls. Following late-stage amendments to the 2025 programme, notable new features are expected in 2026, with further significant changes already signalled for implementation in 2027 across funding schemes and strategic priorities overall.
Read MoreIreland’s MSCA Success: €110m Secured and New Opportunities Ahead in Horizon Europe
Ireland has had an impressive track record in MSCA success. In Horizon 2020, Ireland’s MSCA drawdown was €196.5 million and, to date, over €110m in MSCA funding has been secured by Ireland-based institutions under Horizon Europe. Excellent resources have been created to support applicants and increased national participation means that examples of case studies with Ireland-based researchers are plentiful.
Read MoreGrants to help you prepare a Horizon Europe proposal
Last year, over €3.5 million was approved across 326 Horizon Europe support grants, with similar levels expected in 2025. To further streamline applications and approvals, several recent changes have been introduced. Applicants, Research Offices, and Finance Offices should note updates addressing issues arising from extending grant durations to a maximum of 24 months.
Read MoreHorizon Europe Cluster 6: Funding Opportunities for Environment and Climate Action
The coming months will be busy for environmental researchers, with funding available through forthcoming Horizon Europe Cluster 6 calls, recently opened LIFE Programme calls, and partnership calls later in the year. Inspiration can be drawn from Irish successes such as the GoGreen Next project, led by Maynooth University, tackling biodiversity and climate challenges through innovative nature‑based solutions.
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