Pillar III: Science comes to town 2029

The grant aims to deliver increased alignment of research with society’s needs, expectations and values. Projects are expected to strengthen the capacity, networks, and involvement of participating cities in science communication and citizen engagement, inform evidence-based policymaking, and improve the attractiveness of diverse careers in Research and Innovation (R&I) for younger generations. The programme involves a joint 1-year initiative, including high-profile events such as the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) and the EU TalentOn competition for early-career researchers. Various events and activities focus on connecting citizens and science, inclusivity, gender equality, and citizen science. The programme must take place in 3-6 cities from at least three EU Member States or Associated Countries, with a majority in Member States. Applicants must mobilise substantial resources, demonstrate strong local commitment, and provide a detailed programme. Synergies with initiatives such as the European Researchers’ Night are encouraged.

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Agency	HORIZON (EU)
Region	EU
Country	N/A
Legal form	Company, NGO, Government organization, Other
Start date	8 Dec 2026
End date	11 Mar 2027
Max funding	6,000,000 EUR (Union contribution for this topic)
Budget	6,000,000 EUR (for Pillar III: Science comes to town 2029 topic)
Coverage	Projects are expected to mobilise resources in addition to the Union contribution, including monetary and in-kind sponsorships from cities and other sources.

Grant application conditions

Eligible Applicants	Consortium including at least three independent legal entities: each established in a different Member State or Associated Country, two of which are established in a Member State.
Minimum and Maximum Number of Cities	Programme must take place in a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 6 cities in at least 3 different Member States or Associated Countries, with the majority located in Member States.
Eligible Countries	EU Member States and Associated Countries; some non-EU/non-Associated Countries may be eligible under special provisions.
Legal Commitment	Commitment letters signed by highest authorities (mayor or equivalent) of each participating city required as part of application.
Participants in EUCYS 2029	National EUCYS Organiser must either participate as a beneficiary or associated partner, or provide a commitment letter.
Application Submission	Must follow the proposal page limit and layout described in the Annexes of the Horizon Europe Work Programme and Application Form.
Minimum Age Requirements	EUCYS: 14 to 20 years old (first prize winners of national science contests). EU TalentOn: 21 to 35 years old (early-career researchers).
Project Duration	Expected duration between 24 and 30 months.
Financial Support to Third Parties	Up to EUR 70,000 for EUCYS prizes. Up to EUR 100,000 for EU TalentOn prizes. Financial support to third parties must be in the form of prizes.
Demonstration of Additional Resources	Proposals should demonstrate ability to mobilise substantial additional resources (monetary or in-kind) beyond the Union contribution.
Documentation	https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-WIDERA-2027-05-ERA-03

Eligible expenses

Evaluation criteria

Business exclusions

Reporting

Application process

Application requirements