Excellent Science

Driving scientific excellence and supporting the EU’s position as a world leader in science

Excellent Science

A Horizon Europe Funding Category Pillar 1

‘Excellent Science’ is one of the four main categories of Horizon Europe (pillar 1). It offers opportunities to support frontier research and breakthrough ideas. Projects in this category connect top researchers from Europe and beyond, providing advanced skills and world-class infrastructure.

Does your project align with this category? Find our more below.

Check if your research fits within “Excellent Science”

"Excellent Science" is split into three key programmes, each focusing on a different aspect of scientific excellence. Each programme includes related funding opportunities. This makes it easier to align your innovation with the most suitable call for proposals. Click on the relevant programme to explore funding opportunities.
European Research Council

PILLAR 1 EXCELLENT SCIENCE

European Research Council

Supports top researchers from anywhere in the world, working in Europe to push the frontiers of knowledge.

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Marie Sklodowska-Curie

PILLAR 1 EXCELLENT SCIENCE

Marie Sklodowska-Curie

Focuses on training, mobility, and career development for researchers across Europe and beyond.

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Research Infrastructures

PILLAR 1 EXCELLENT SCIENCE

Research Infrastructures

Provides funding for the development and access to state-of-the-art research facilities across Europe.

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PROCESS

Review the application process

What are the steps? How long does it take? What resources are available to support your innovation? Explore everything you need to know to get started.

High-level process

ELIGIBILITY

Find out if you're eligible with our high-level criteria check list.

What are the high level eligibility criteria? Does your project or innovation meet the requirements? Are you prepared to apply? Find the answers here.

Check eligibility

CONSORTIUM BUILDING

Ready to build or join a consortium?

Eligible and ready to move forward? Learn how to build or join a consortium with key steps, best practices, and tips to tailor it to your project’s needs.

Consortium building

Unlock the key benefits of Horizon Europe

By participating in Horizon Europe, you can unlock key benefits such as:
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Grant funding

Access significant grants for research and innovation.

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Collaboration

Partner with global experts and institutions.

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Network

Expand your reach to international markets.

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Real world impact

Turn innovative ideas into practical solutions.

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Support for Innovation

Backing for high-risk, breakthrough projects.

NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to the Horizon Europe Newsletter

Sign up to our Horizon Europe newsletter, for information on the programme, related news, events and funding, and connect to the right people for support.

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