The publication of the Research Executive Agency (REA) 2025 work programme has encountered an unexpected delay, prompting numerous inquiries from stakeholders, researchers, and other interested parties. Although the precise factors behind the delay have not been definitively outlined in any official statement, it is understood that the process of finalizing such a comprehensive document can be influenced by a variety of administrative, technical, and consultative considerations concerning the renovation of the European Commission‘s directors after the elections in 2024. These considerations often include the alignment of new proposals with current policy priorities, budget negotiations at different institutional levels, and the incorporation of feedback from various advisory bodies and committees.
According to recent communications, it is now expected that the REA 2025 work programme will be published either by the end of March or during the first week of April. This updated timeline is intended to provide the necessary space for any remaining reviews and adjustments, ensuring that the final version of the work programme is as thorough and precise as possible. Furthermore, the extension allows for any recent policy developments to be fully integrated, thus guaranteeing that the 2025 work programme aligns with overarching strategic goals at both the European Commission and member state levels.
The REA, which operates under the aegis of the European Commission, manages a wide range of research funding activities. Its work programmes are highly anticipated, as they guide future funding opportunities, define policy directions, and establish thematic priorities. Researchers, project coordinators, and innovation-driven stakeholders rely on these documents to identify upcoming calls for proposals and to tailor their research strategies accordingly. As such, the delay has generated some concern, although it has also provided time for potential applicants to continue refining their project concepts and building relevant partnerships.
But how to work on a project without the Work Programme?
While the specific details of the final work programme remain confidential until its official release, drafts disclosed over the last several months have offered preliminary insights into potential focus areas. These include emerging scientific and technological fields, policy-driven research themes, and cross-disciplinary collaborations that are likely to receive significant attention in the 2025 cycle. Observers and prospective applicants seeking to remain fully informed are encouraged to review these drafts and stay abreast of any subsequent updates or announcements from the REA.
For those interested in examining the drafts that have been disclosed in recent months, please refer to the following links, which consolidates the available documents in a single repository. Remember that My Horizon Grant gives you the opportunity to contact several consulting companies and freelancers to discuss your project idea and the best call for free:
Cluster 1
Health
Cluster 2
Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society
Cluster 3
Civil Security for Society
Cluster 4
Digital, Industry and Space
Cluster 5
Climate, Energy and Mobility
Cluster 6
Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment
WIDERA
Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area
It is advisable to monitor official REA communications and the EU Funding and Tenders Portal regularly for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Once the REA 2025 work programme is published, further guidance on application procedures, eligibility criteria, and deadlines will become available, enabling all stakeholders to prepare effectively for upcoming funding opportunities.
