02 Jun 2026
ERC launches new €210 million grant scheme for transformative research in Europe
The European Research Council (ERC) has launched the first call for its new ERC Plus Grants, a funding scheme intended to support ambitious and potentially transformative research across Europe.
Backed by a budget of €210 million, the programme is part of the 'Choose Europe' initiative which seeks to reinforce Europe's position as a global center for scientific excellence, attracting and retaining the world's top scientific talent.
Under the new scheme, individual projects can receive up to €7 million over a period of up to seven years. The grants are open to outstanding researchers of any nationality whose work could significantly reshape their field. Around 30 grants are expected to be awarded in this inaugural competition.
The ERC Plus Grants are part of a wider €874 million funding package for the 2025–2027 period under the 'Choose Europe' initiative. The broader programme aims to support excellent research and innovation capacity across the continent.
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