SumDU is expanding opportunities for researchers, teachers, students, and project managers. The scientific coordination center of the Horizon Europe program at SumDU has prepared a practical guide: step-by-step instructions to prepare a successful application to one of the EU largest research initiatives.

This guide was created to systematize information, alleviate fears about complex procedures, and make the path from idea to funding as clear as possible.

“From my experience in project work, I can say the most difficult step is the first one, namely identifying the problem, proposing an idea for its solution, finding partners and relevant competitions. Our guide will be useful for those who prepare an application for the Horizon Europe program for the first time and for experienced coordinators who look for a clear structure and coordinated methodological approaches”, – said Mykola NAZAROV (the SCC head and guide developer).

The guide comprises several logical blocks. Each corresponds to one of the key stages of participation in the Horizon Europe project:

• Generating idea – how to find a relevant topic that corresponds to EU missions and how to form a team;
• Searching for funds – how to navigate competitions and budgets;
• Forming a consortium – how to find partners, distribute roles, and build trust;
• Preparing a project application – clear instructions for Parts A-B, budget calculation;
• Submitting an application – technical requirements, deadlines, and registration details;
• Waiting for results – how to track assessment of the application, how to respond to comments and prepare for signing the grant agreement;
• Implementing – organization of work, reporting, dissemination of results;
• Scaling – evaluation of effectiveness, communication, further development of a successful idea.

The guide is written in a simple language. It contains examples, templates, links to resources. It takes into account the latest recommendations of the European Commission, updated requirements for application forms, and advice on forming project partnerships during wartime, when it is especially important to demonstrate the sustainability and relevance of research. The guide authors have tried to make it as user-friendly as possible: a clear structure, understandable wording, and examples from SumDU experience make the material practical and applicable today.

It will be useful for researchers, department heads, project managers, graduate students, and undergraduates. It can also be used for trainings and workshops.

The document can be downloaded at:

https://ppst.sumdu.edu.ua/images/HorizonEurope/guide.pdf