What's Happening?
The European Union's Horizon Europe program is actively promoting international research collaboration, with a significant event scheduled for January 20-21, 2027. The Faculty of Business and Management at Brno University of Technology will host the 'Co-Designing
the Future: Engineering Technologies for a Resilient and Human-Centric Society' event. Organized in partnership with the global innovation network Crowdhelix, this event aims to bring together European researchers, industry experts, and innovation leaders in Brno. The primary goal is to facilitate the formation of project consortia for upcoming Horizon Europe calls, directly at the university. This initiative is designed to strengthen the chances of participating research teams in securing prestigious European grants under Pillar II of Horizon Europe for 2027, focusing on key areas such as Health, the Clean Industrial Deal, Civil Security for Society (CL3), and Digital, Industry and Space (CL4). Registration is currently open to international research organizations, universities, and industry partners interested in collaborating with Brno University of Technology's research teams.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is crucial for fostering international scientific and technological advancement within the European Union and beyond. By bringing together diverse research entities and industry partners, Horizon Europe aims to address complex global challenges through collaborative innovation. The focus on specific pillars like Health and the Clean Industrial Deal highlights the EU's commitment to tackling critical societal issues and promoting sustainable development. For participating institutions, securing grants under Horizon Europe provides vital funding for cutting-edge research, enhances their international profile, and facilitates knowledge exchange. The emphasis on forming strong international consortia is key to developing competitive proposals and ensuring a broader impact of research outcomes. This collaborative model can lead to breakthroughs in various fields, benefiting citizens across Europe and potentially influencing global standards and practices in research and development.
What's Next?
The immediate next step is the 'Co-Designing the Future' event in January 2027, where project consortia will be formed for upcoming Horizon Europe calls. Following this, the newly formed consortia will work on developing and submitting their proposals for grants under Pillar II of Horizon Europe. The success of these proposals will determine the allocation of significant European funding to various research projects. The ongoing efforts by the Crowdhelix network to organize matchmaking events will continue to connect leading research and academic institutions worldwide, fostering further collaboration. The long-term outlook involves continued investment in research and innovation through the Horizon Europe program, with a sustained focus on international partnerships to address evolving global challenges and maintain Europe's competitive edge in science and technology.
Beyond the Headlines
The strategic importance of events like the 'Co-Designing the Future' extends beyond immediate grant acquisition. They represent a broader commitment to open science and international cooperation, which are increasingly vital in a globalized world. By facilitating direct interaction between researchers and industry experts, these events help bridge the gap between academic discovery and practical application, accelerating the translation of research into tangible societal benefits. The focus on specific thematic areas also reflects the EU's policy priorities, guiding research efforts towards areas deemed critical for future prosperity and security. This collaborative framework can also serve as a model for other regions seeking to enhance their research ecosystems and address complex challenges through collective intelligence and shared resources, promoting a more interconnected and innovative global scientific community.
