Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The National Research, Development and Innovation Fund (NRDI Fund) in Hungary is offering grants to support the preparation of Horizon Europe proposals. Funding covers consortium building, proposal drafting, and related preparatory activities, with grants ranging from HUF 1–2 million per project and a total budget of HUF 250 million.
Overview
The NRDI Fund has launched a Call for Proposals (CFP) to support Hungarian participation in the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme and associated joint initiatives. The Call aims to promote innovation within the Hungarian economy, strengthen research and development with economic and social impact, facilitate the use of domestic and international research results, support innovation infrastructure and service activities, encourage maximum Hungarian participation in Horizon Europe projects, enhance international visibility and networking capacities, promote leadership roles for Hungarian applicants in consortia, and support the inclusion of new participants, especially SMEs.
Funding Details
Grant Range: HUF 1 million – HUF 2 million per project.
Total Budget: HUF 250 million.
Project Duration: Up to 24 months.
Application Format: Individual submission only.
Purpose: Exclusively supports preparatory activities for participation in Horizon Europe proposals implemented through consortia.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must be legal entities with a registered seat in Hungary, or legal entities with a registered seat in the European Economic Area that maintain a branch office in Hungary.
Eligible Activities
Projects can include a variety of preparatory and consortium-building activities, such as:
- Consortium Building: Participating as a consortium member or coordinator, leading work packages.
- Networking and Meetings: International partner search events, project preparatory meetings abroad or in Hungary.
- Advisory and Legal Support: Legal and patent consulting, drafting consortium agreements.
- Proposal Development: Proposal writing and language editing, participation in international proposal writing training.
- Professional Engagement: Membership in professional organisations, travel costs related to professional networking.
Milestones: Each project must plan at least one milestone and complete implementation within 24 months from the start date. The start date cannot be more than 24 months prior to the submission date of the application.
Why This Grant Matters
Supporting preparatory activities for Horizon Europe participation strengthens Hungary’s research and innovation ecosystem, increases international visibility of Hungarian research, encourages leadership and collaboration in European consortia, and helps SMEs and new applicants access Horizon Europe opportunities.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your legal entity status and location.
- Plan Activities: Identify consortium building, proposal drafting, and advisory needs.
- Set Milestones: Define at least one measurable project milestone within 24 months.
- Budget Preparation: Allocate HUF 1–2 million per project.
- Draft Proposal: Include detailed activities, timelines, and expected outcomes.
- Submit Application: Apply individually through the NRDI Fund portal before the deadline.
Tips for a Strong Application: Clearly define consortium roles and responsibilities, include all relevant preparatory activities with detailed costs, highlight the potential for international collaboration and leadership, plan for milestones and measurable outcomes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for non-preparatory activities unrelated to Horizon Europe, submitting as a consortium rather than individual legal entities, missing milestone planning or exceeding the 24-month project limit, overlooking eligibility requirements for EEA entities with Hungarian branches.
FAQ
1. Who can apply for this grant? Legal entities with a registered seat in Hungary or EEA entities with a branch office in Hungary.
2. What activities are eligible for funding? Consortium building, proposal writing, legal/patent advice, training, networking, and related preparatory activities.
3. How much funding can I receive? Grants range from HUF 1 million to HUF 2 million per project.
4. How long can a project last? Projects may last up to 24 months from the start date.
5. Can a consortium submit a joint application? No. Applications must be submitted individually by each legal entity.
6. What milestones are required? At least one measurable milestone must be planned during the project, completed within 24 months.
7. Can new applicants or SMEs apply? Yes, the Call encourages participation from new applicants and SMEs.
Conclusion
The NRDI Fund Call for Proposals provides strategic support for Hungarian participation in Horizon Europe. By funding preparatory activities, this initiative strengthens Hungary’s research ecosystem, promotes international collaboration, and empowers new and existing applicants to assume leadership roles in European consortia. Applicants should carefully plan activities, milestones, and budgets to maximize the chance of successful funding.
For more information, visit National Research, Development and Innovation Office.