22 Oct 2026
EC funds 16 new European Excellence Initiative projects
The European Commission has announced that 16 new projects have been selected for funding to the total amount of € 80 million under the European Excellence Initiative, advancing R&I collaboration and excellence in universities from across Europe.
The European Excellence Initiative is part of the Horizon Europe – Widening participation and spreading excellence part of the Widening participation and strengthening the ERA programme. The initiative supports universities in developing scientific excellence, improving knowledge valorisation, and building stronger links with partners across Europe. Through strategic cooperation, talent development and institutional reform, it will create a more competitive, resilient and internationally connected higher education systems that can contribute more effectively to regional and European innovation.
The latest EEI call for proposals ran from May to November 2025, with 284 applications received and 16 selected for funding. They will start their activities between September 2026 and January 2027.
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