Horizon 2020 is a European Union (EU) research and innovation funding program with the goal of strengthening the EU’s global position in research, innovation and technology. For Canadian researchers interested in expanding their international network of collaborators, participating in Horizon 2020 is one excellent way to bolster your research program and potentially leverage future research funding.

As a Third Country by EU’s definition, Canada is eligible to participate in many of the research grant programs offered through Horizon 2020.

Can Canadian researchers receive funding?
Canadian participation in the project must be deemed essential in order to receive funding at Canadian institutions. ‘Essential’ could mean that your unique expertise or data is unavailable in Europe. The review committee will evaluate whether a researcher from Europe can make the same kind of scientific and innovative contribution.

Note that funding for Canadian participation must be made at the proposal stage.

How to locate EU Horizon 2020 research opportunities:
An application must be made by the EU-based institution. Many Europeans colleagues may be unaware that Canadians can participate in Horizon 2020; therefore, it is recommended to talk to your contacts early.

To get a sense of what research programs are currently available:

1. Visit the Participant Portal.
2. Select an Opportunity and download the Call Documents.
3. Read the General Annexes which will describe whether Third Countries are eligible to participate.

Talk to a National Contact Point (NCP)
NCPs provide guidance and assistance on all aspects of participation in Horizon 2020. They can help you select relevant Horizon 2020 topics, what type of program is best suited to your needs and can assist you with searching for partners. Canadian NCPs can be found here.

Looking for fully funded EU doctoral students or EU post-doctoral fellows?
Marie Sklodowska-Curie actions (MSCA) supports research training and career development by funding worldwide and cross-sector mobility.

• View the Marie Sklodowska-Curie presentation found here by selecting the file “AUCC MSCA Info Session Presentation June 2014.pdf”. 
• To view all active Marie Sklodowska-Curie opportunities available, please visit the Horizon 2020 webpage.
• For further information on the MSCA programs or application, please contact the Marie Sklodowska-Curie NCPs.

Additional Resources
ERA-Can+is a new project funded by the European Commission that launched in October 2013 that aims to promote cooperation between EU and Canada in science, technology and innovation through various activities. ERA-Can+ is designed to encourage opportunities in both directions including strengthening commercialization activities.

Many resources are available to Canadians through ERA-Can+. These include:

• A guideline for Canadians on how Canadians can be involved in EU-led research.
• Workshops, webinars, and other events covering information on Horizon 2020 programs. You can access Era-Can+ information session presentations here.
• The distribution of newsletter containing the latest updates. You can register for the ERA-Can+ Newsletter to receive updates on available funding opportunities, project activities, or information sessions.