06 May 2022
EP study on lump sum funding shows positive feedback from participants

The European Parliamentary Research Service has published a study which explores the first experiences with lump sum funding. The Commission has introduced lump sum funding in Horizon Europe with the aim to to simplify the system by removing cost reporting, and helping to shift the focus from financial management to the technical and scientific content of projects. The lump sum principle is that payments are made based on obtained results according to the agreed project plan. The study collected input from 167 individuals from 29 countries and from academia and industry.
The key result of the study is that the general attitude towards the lump sum system is quite positive. It is perceived as better than the traditional system, at least for some funding schemes, and is seen as meeting its aims. However, the system could be modified further to reach its full potential.
The study can be downloaded here: