On 26 June 2026, the Council of the European Union reached a partial general approach on the Horizon Europe Framework Programme for Research and Innovation for 2028-2034, setting rules for participation and dissemination. The agreement covers most policy provisions but leaves all reference amounts pending the Multiannual Financial Framework negotiations, with bracketed provisions excluded.
The Programme aims to strengthen the European Research Area, boost competitiveness, resilience, and sovereignty, and address geopolitical challenges. It supports the creation, diffusion, and transfer of knowledge, fosters research careers, and promotes evidence-informed policies. Social sciences and humanities must be integrated across all components and programming stages. National Contact Points will simplify access and enhance openness for applicants, including newcomers. The Programme targets at least 3% of EU GDP in R&D investment, assessed via the European Semester.
Grants shall not be awarded for actions above Technology Readiness Level 8. European Partnerships must follow a strategic, portfolio-based approach with ex-ante exit strategies and single award procedures. EU Missions (climate, cancer, ocean, soil, cities) will focus on deployment via the European Competitiveness Fund after 2030. The European Research Council funds bottom-up, investigator-driven research based solely on excellence. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions will use simplified cost options with biennially updated country correction coefficients based on Eurostat data. The European Innovation Council supports deep-tech, high-risk innovations, including defence and dual-use startups, in synergy with the European Competitiveness Fund. The Joint Research Centre provides independent scientific evidence for EU policies. Gender equality and equal opportunities must be promoted across all Programme activities.
The partial general approach now serves as the Council's negotiating mandate for trilogues with the European Parliament, which is expected to adopt its position later this year. The final budget figures will be determined in the broader MFF negotiations, which are ongoing.