Deadline: 24-Sep-2026
The European Commission is offering €7 million under Horizon Europe to enhance research management capacity in Widening countries. The call supports institutional reforms, training of research managers, and the creation of a dedicated research management support facility. It aims to improve research excellence, funding success, and alignment with European Research Area priorities.
Overview
This initiative focuses on strengthening research management systems within institutions to improve the overall quality, efficiency, and impact of research.
It supports:
- Institutional capacity building
- Skilled and professional research management
- Better access to international research funding
- Stronger integration into European research ecosystems
The program is especially targeted at Widening countries to reduce disparities in research and innovation performance.
What is Research Management?
Research management refers to the systems, processes, and professionals that support research activities within institutions.
It includes:
- Grant application support
- Financial and administrative management
- Compliance with funding regulations
- Strategic planning and partnerships
- Knowledge transfer and commercialization
Strong research management leads to better research outcomes and higher funding success rates.
Key Objectives
1. Strengthen Institutional Capacity
- Build robust research management structures
- Support reforms in research institutions
- Improve national research and innovation systems
2. Develop Human Capital
- Train professional research managers
- Promote entrepreneurial and strategic skills
- Align with the European competence framework
3. Promote Collaboration
- Encourage multidisciplinary and cross-border cooperation
- Facilitate knowledge exchange and best practices
- Connect Widening institutions with experienced organisations
4. Align with European Research Area Priorities
Projects should support:
- Research integrity
- Responsible research and innovation (RRI)
- Gender equality
- Public engagement
- Science education
- Open access
- Knowledge valorisation
Key Component: Research Management Facility
A central element of the call is the creation of a dedicated support facility.
Functions of the Facility:
- Provide tailored support to institutions
- Assess institutional needs
- Develop capacity-building strategies
- Deliver structured training programs
- Facilitate peer learning and best practice exchange
Training Focus:
- Based on the European Competence Framework for Research Managers
- Practical, skills-based modules
- Focus on real institutional challenges
Supported Activities
Projects may include:
- Establishment of research management support services
- Institutional needs assessments and strategy development
- Training and professional development programs
- Peer exchange and mentoring initiatives
- Networking at European and international levels
- Development of best practice frameworks
Funding Details
- Total funding: €7,000,000
- Programme: Horizon Europe
- Project type: Capacity-building and coordination action
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants:
- Universities and research institutions
- Public and private organisations
- NGOs and international organisations
- Any legal entity worldwide
Conditions:
- Entities from non-associated third countries can apply
- Must comply with Horizon Europe rules
- Both individual and consortium applications may be possible
Project Requirements
Proposals must:
- Establish or support a research management facility
- Include capacity-building and training components
- Demonstrate strong collaboration and knowledge exchange
- Align with European Research Area priorities
- Show long-term sustainability and impact
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Register organisation in the EU Participant Register
- Obtain Participant Identification Code (PIC)
- Build a consortium (recommended)
- Design a project that includes:
- Research management capacity-building plan
- Training and skills development modules
- Institutional reform strategies
- Prepare proposal including:
- Implementation plan
- Impact and sustainability strategy
- Budget and resource allocation
- Submit via Horizon Europe portal
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are assessed on:
- Excellence and relevance
- Quality of training and capacity-building approach
- Impact on research systems and institutions
- Strength of collaboration and partnerships
- Feasibility and sustainability
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Vague or generic capacity-building plans
- Weak training structure or unclear outcomes
- Lack of institutional engagement
- No long-term sustainability strategy
- Poor alignment with European Research Area priorities
Why This Funding Matters
Strong research management is essential for high-quality research systems.
This initiative helps:
- Increase success in international funding applications
- Improve efficiency and compliance in research projects
- Strengthen institutional performance
- Enhance global competitiveness of research institutions
- Support innovation and knowledge transfer
Tips for a Strong Proposal
- Focus on real institutional needs and gaps
- Provide structured and practical training programs
- Include experienced partners for knowledge exchange
- Demonstrate measurable outcomes and impact
- Align clearly with European Research Area priorities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main goal of this call?
To strengthen research management capacity and improve research excellence in Widening countries.
2. How much funding is available?
€7 million under Horizon Europe.
3. Who can apply?
Any legal entity globally, including universities, NGOs, and research organisations.
4. What is a research management facility?
A support system that provides training, tools, and services to improve research management in institutions.
5. Is collaboration required?
Yes, collaboration and knowledge exchange are strongly encouraged.
6. What kind of training is expected?
Structured, skills-based training aligned with the European competence framework.
7. What outcomes are expected?
Improved institutional capacity, better research performance, and stronger integration into European research systems.
Conclusion
This Horizon Europe call offers a strategic opportunity to strengthen research management systems and enhance institutional performance. By investing in people, processes, and collaboration, the initiative supports sustainable improvements in research excellence and global competitiveness.
For more information, visit European Commission.