Evaluation Criteria in Horizon Europe: Impact, Excellence, and Implementation
Securing funding under Horizon Europe, the European Union’s key research and innovation programme, requires a well-crafted proposal that meets strict evaluation criteria. Proposals are assessed based on three fundamental pillars: Excellence, Impact, and Implementation. Understanding these criteria is essential for developing a competitive application and maximizing the chances of success. This article explores each criterion in detail, offering insights and best practices to strengthen a Horizon Europe proposal.
1. Excellence: The Foundation of a Strong Proposal
The Excellence criterion assesses the scientific, technological, and innovative merits of the proposed project. Evaluators examine:
- Clarity of objectives: Are the project’s aims well-defined and ambitious?
- Soundness of concept and methodology: Does the proposal demonstrate a solid theoretical foundation and employ appropriate methodologies?
- Novelty and innovation potential: How does the project advance the state of the art in its field?
- Interdisciplinary approach: Does the proposal integrate knowledge from various disciplines to create new solutions?
- Quality of the consortium: Are the participating organizations well-qualified and capable of achieving the project’s objectives?
To score highly in this category, applicants should clearly articulate the project’s originality and demonstrate its scientific and technical feasibility. Using concrete evidence, preliminary research, or case studies can strengthen the proposal’s credibility.
2. Impact: Demonstrating Value for Society and the EU
The Impact criterion evaluates the potential economic, societal, and environmental benefits of the project. This section focuses on:
- Contribution to Horizon Europe objectives: How does the project align with EU policies and global challenges?
- Expected outcomes and benefits: What tangible improvements will the project bring to industry, science, or society?
- Dissemination, exploitation, and communication strategies:
- How will project results be shared with stakeholders, policymakers, and the general public?
- What plans are in place to maximize the uptake and sustainability of the project’s outputs?
- How will intellectual property (IP) and innovation management be handled?
A strong impact section should clearly define measurable indicators and specific targets for success. Developing a well-structured communication and dissemination plan, incorporating open-access strategies, and identifying key stakeholders will significantly enhance the proposal’s evaluation in this category.
3. Implementation: Ensuring Feasibility and Efficiency
The Implementation criterion assesses the feasibility of the project’s execution. Evaluators examine:
- Work plan and methodology: Is the project structured into logical work packages with clear deliverables and milestones?
- Consortium capability: Do the participating organizations have the necessary expertise, experience, and resources?
- Resource allocation and budget justification: Are the financial and human resources allocated appropriately?
- Risk management: Are potential risks identified, and is there a mitigation strategy in place?
- Project management structure: Does the proposal outline clear roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes?
To strengthen this section, applicants should provide a realistic timeline, a well-balanced consortium, and a detailed budget that justifies all expenses. Having a contingency plan for potential project risks is also advisable.
Best Practices for a Competitive Horizon Europe Proposal
- Align with EU Priorities: Ensure that the proposal contributes to Horizon Europe’s overarching goals, such as sustainability, digital transformation, or health innovation.
- Use Clear and Concise Language: Evaluators review numerous applications, so clarity and readability are crucial.
- Provide Quantifiable Data: Use KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and measurable objectives to substantiate expected outcomes.
- Engage Strong Partners: A diverse and well-balanced consortium with complementary expertise increases credibility.
- Incorporate Feedback: Seek reviews from experts or previous evaluators to refine the proposal.
Conclusion
Successfully obtaining Horizon Europe funding requires more than just a strong research idea—it demands a well-structured proposal that excels in Excellence, Impact, and Implementation. By addressing these criteria effectively and strategically, applicants can significantly enhance their chances of securing EU funding and contributing to groundbreaking innovations that benefit Europe and beyond.
