Canada has joined the non-EU countries associated with the EU’s research and innovation programme, Horizon Europe. Canadian researchers and organisations now have the opportunity to participate in the programme on equal terms with their EU counterparts.
Iliana Ivanova, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, and Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canadian Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, signed the agreement today, which allows Canadian entities to join and lead research projects and be funded directly from the programme.
“The challenges that we face are global, and we must therefore work together to tackle them. I wholeheartedly welcome Canada in our Horizon Europe programme. With this step, we are strengthening the EU’s ties with trusted partners that have a solid scientific base and a robust track record in research and innovation. Now we can enable our brightest minds to come together and work on joint solutions for our future,” Commissioner Iliana Ivanova noted.
Canada’s commitment to the Horizon Europe programme extends beyond participation. The country will also contribute to the programme’s budget, a significant financial pledge that underscores Canada’s dedication to international research and innovation. The announcement of Canada’s participation and financial contribution was made at the EU-Canada Summit on 24th November 2023.
Horizon Europe is the EU’s primary funding programme for research and innovation, with a budget of €93.5 billion for 2021-27. It aims to address climate change, contribute to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and enhance the EU’s competitiveness and growth. The most significant collaborative component of the programme is Pillar II, which has a budget of €52.4 billion and focuses on addressing global challenges such as climate, energy, the digital economy, and health.
