The European Research Council (ERC) has announced a significant increase in its budget for 2024, with an additional allocation of €125 million from the European Commission. This increase is the result of the UK’s partnership with the Horizon Europe programme and will allow the ERC to fund an additional 48 Advanced Fellowships this year.
The total budget for Advanced Fellowships in 2024 is now approximately €703 million, which will support 285 projects. These grants provide up to €3.5 million to experienced principal investigators for research projects of up to five years. This increase in funding underlines the importance of supporting high-level research and innovation across Europe.
In addition, the amendment to the 2024 Work Programme reintroduces the right of the ERC Executive Agency to object to the transfer or licensing of intellectual property rights arising from ERC grants to entities in non-associated third countries. This change is part of the EU’s broader strategy to mitigate risks to economic flows amid rising geopolitical tensions and rapid technological developments, while maintaining economic openness and dynamism.
1 million has also been allocated to support communication activities in line with the ERC’s External Communication Strategy, enhancing the visibility and impact of ERC initiatives.
This budget increase, announced on 17 May, is part of the ERC’s continued efforts to fund innovative research. The additional funding from the UK’s contribution to Horizon Europe highlights the collaborative and competitive nature of the programme, benefiting researchers and innovators across Europe.
For more information, please visit the official ERC website
