EU funding programmes

The EU has several different funding programmes such as Horizon Europe for research and innovation that you may be able to apply for, depending on the nature of your business or project. There are two different types: direct funding and indirect funding.

Direct funding

You can apply for grants and contracts managed by the European Commission on the Funding and Tenders portal or the European Institute of Innovation & Technology website.

Grants

Grants are given to specific projects that relate to EU policies, usually following a public announcement known as a call for proposals.

Contracts

Contracts are issued by EU institutions to buy services, goods or works that they need for their operations – such as studies, training, conference organisation or IT equipment.

Indirect funding

Indirect funding is managed by national and regional authorities and comprises nearly 80% of the EU budget, through the European Structural and Investment Funds or the Recovery and Resilence Facility.

Apply for funding

You can apply for loans and equity financing supported by the EU in the Access to Finance section. Read more about how EU funding works.

You can also access EU grants by applying via the relevant regional or national authorities (known as managing authorities) in the member state where you are registered. Find out more by selecting your country below:

Need help or advice?

Get in touch with specialised assistance services

Do you have questions on operating a business cross-border, for example exporting or expanding to another EU country? If so, the Enterprise Europe Network can give you free advice.

You can also use the assistance service finder to find the right help for you.

Last checked: 22/02/2024
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