More money for startups: bigger budget expected in FP10.
The European Union is preparing its next major research and innovation programme- the 10th Framework Programme (FP10), scheduled to run from 2028 to 2034. Early discussions and planning indicate that FP10 will introduce significant changes in how the EU supports science and innovation. A key highlight is the much larger expected budget, with growing support to double the funding to at least €200 billion. This increase reflects the rising importance of science and technology for Europe’s future competitiveness, particularly in responding to global rivals and leading in critical tech sectors.
Simpler application process to boost access.
One of the biggest shifts in FP10 focuses on making funding easier to access. The current programme, Horizon Europe, often faces criticism for complex procedures and excessive bureaucracy. FP10 aims to simplify the application process, making it more accessible, especially for startups, which frequently face challenges navigating administrative hurdles. The European Innovation Council (EIC) plans to play a bigger role by offering direct investments and funding options tailored to help startups grow. The European Commission is also working on better connecting public funding with the venture capital ecosystem. The goal is to ensure that excellent research moves beyond the lab and becomes real products and technologies in the market.
Strategic focus: key sectors for Europe’s autonomy and growth.
FP10 intends to go beyond the broad agenda of Horizon Europe by placing stronger emphasis on strategic autonomy, helping Europe rely more on its own capabilities. Key sectors include: digital technologies, defence-related innovation and cutting industrial emissions. While Horizon Europe already supports green and digital transformation, FP10 plans to invest even more in advanced technologies with long-term impact. Health research will remain a priority, with clearer focus on pandemic readiness and biotechnology linked to public health and security. Additionally, clean energy solutions such as: hydrogen technologies, carbon capture and sustainable transport will receive increased attention.
Startup support: bridging the gap for young innovators.
Startups are set to play a more central role in FP10. Many innovative startups struggle to grow due to limited access to funding and venture capital. There is growing agreement that Europe must do more to support these businesses, particularly those working on deep-tech and breakthrough innovations. The European Innovation Council is expected to be at the heart of this effort, providing direct investments and funding tailored to the specific needs of startups.
Widening participation: supporting less-developed regions.
Another key topic involves the future of the widening participation initiative, which helps less-developed EU regions engage in research activities. This initiative currently benefits from a dedicated funding stream, but it remains unclear whether FP10 will fully integrate it or continue to offer separate support to close regional gaps in innovation capacity.
Independence of FP10: a vital debate.
A major point of debate centres on whether FP10 should remain a separate programme. Although Horizon Europe is technically separate, it operates under the broader EU budget. Some policymakers have proposed merging FP10 into a larger European Competitiveness Fund. However, many key stakeholders, including EU countries, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), and researchers, argue that research and innovation need a dedicated budget to safeguard long-term scientific goals.
Commitment to open science, impact, and excellence.
FP10 will continue to promote open science, data sharing, and cross-border collaboration. At the same time, it will place greater emphasis on ensuring that research delivers real-world results and helps Europe maintain strength and independence in strategic areas. Excellence will remain a core principle, but it will be more closely linked to societal impact and strategic objectives.
Summary: natural evolution towards a stronger European innovation future.
The 10th Framework Programme represents a natural evolution, building on the successes of Horizon Europe while adapting to a more complex and competitive global landscape. It brings bigger goals, stronger support for startups, a sharper strategic focus, and a renewed ambition to turn European innovation into a global force over the next decade.
Source:
https://sciencebusiness.net/fp10/self-standing-fp10-will-be-tightly-connected-european-competitiveness-fund-von-der-leyen-says
https://ncpflanders.be/infosheets/next-eu-framework-programme-for-research-innovation-fp10
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2025-0028_EN.pdf
https://www.gov.pl/web/hpkpw/jaki-bedzie-10-program-ramowy-na-rzecz-badan-i-innowacji