The EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation – HORIZON 2020 – came into force in 1 January 2014 and its first calls for proposals are already published since 11 December 2013. Just like with every newly established Framework Programme, the financial rules and regulations governing Horizon 2020 have changed a lot!

Compared to the previous Seventh Research Framework Programme (FP7), Horizon 2020 is expected to revolutionise Europe by cutting the red tape and, also, thanks to its simplified rules and structure.

 The first call for proposals under Horizon 2020, the EU’s new Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, were launched in December 2013. The programme will run from 2014-2020 with a budget of €70 billion to fund research and innovation projects across Europe.

It is essential to be one step ahead of the game and prepare for the forthcoming challenges in the years running up to 2020. Fully understanding the new scheme of H2020 and its participation and administrative rules, as well as the differences with the previous FP7 programme is a key asset for organisations that wish to participate in H2020 projects.