Navigating the EU health research funding: insights from first-hand experiences

Each EU funding programme is unique—with its own objectives, priorities, eligibility rules, and evaluation criteria. Whether you are tackling a multi-million-euro IHI initiative or a cascade funding opportunity under Horizon Europe, I have learned that one size never fits all. The key lies in decoding each programme’s nuances and crafting proposals that  combine ambition with a coherent and credible operational plan that can deliver real impact.

“Whether you are tackling a multi-million-euro IHI initiative or a cascade funding opportunity under Horizon Europe, I have learned that one size never fits all.”

Over the years, I have had the privilege to work across a spectrum of EU programmes: from Horizon Europe Cluster Health to the complex IHI single and two-stage calls, EIC Pathfinder, EMA tenders, the Widera Programme, the European Innovation Ecosystem or the European Infrastructure Programmes.

Each presented unique challenges, but all have reinforced the importance of strategic alignment among partners and robust planning.

What sets Teamit apart is our ability to master the most intricate calls—those that demand deep collaboration between public and private sectors.

Success in these environments requires more than an ambitious concept that goes beyond the state of the art to address unmet public health needs; it calls for large-scale and cross-sector partnerships, a thorough grasp of the regulatory landscape, and a commitment to establishing strong governance and stakeholder engagement from the very beginning.

“What sets Teamit apart is our ability to master the most intricate calls—those that demand deep collaboration between public and private sectors.”

My journey has taught me that building bridges between sectors and aligning diverse interests are essential components of impactful proposals. Clear communication strategies at multiple levels are critical. While closely supporting the proposal coordinator, we ensure every partner’s contribution is valued and create spaces and connections for new ideas. Innovation and inclusion of different perspectives enrich proposals and make them more comprehensive.

Time management is another decisive factor. Proposal preparation is time-sensitive, and having clear week-by-week plan is essential. Someone must oversee progress against the timeline and guide partners to meet internal milestones.  

“My journey has taught me that building bridges between sectors and aligning diverse interests are essential components of impactful proposals.” 

Having witnessed many successful—but also unsuccessful—consortia, I can confidently say that success in EU health research funding is not a matter of luck, but the result of strong processes, fluid communication and strategic collaborations. Teamit stands alongside our partners from day one, turning complex challenges into transformative research.