In today’s interconnected world, collaboration in research and innovation is vital for tackling global challenges and advancing our collective knowledge. Canada’s partnership with the Horizon Europe programme is a prime example of what collaboration can achieve, with the Department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) playing a pivotal role in facilitating Canada’s involvement in the programme.
To support this initiative, the Canadian Horizon Europe Secretariat at ISED organised a nationwide roadshow to inform and promote the numerous opportunities available to researchers and innovators across the country. This roadshow is a vital step in equipping participants with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of the programme and to fully embrace the potential for meaningful international partnerships.
To learn more, The Innovation Platform’s Maddie Hall spoke with ISED about the roadshow, its highlights, and its outcomes for the programme.
What was the motivation for organising the Horizon Europe roadshow, and what were the main objectives?
Canada’s association with Horizon Europe opens up exciting new opportunities for research and innovation partnerships with researchers in Europe (and beyond – we can also work with other associated countries). The Canadian Horizon Europe Secretariat at ISED organised the roadshow, in collaboration with the European Union (EU) delegation, after receiving a high volume of questions from Canadian researchers and innovators interested in the programme. The sessions were designed to help them by cultivating widespread awareness and understanding of these new funding and collaboration opportunities.
Hosting interactive sessions across the country allowed participants to receive practical guidance on applying for funding, managing projects, and navigating administrative, legal, and financial requirements. The sessions also provided valuable networking opportunities and featured success stories from Canadian researchers already participating in Horizon Europe, helping those new to the programme, as well as those already familiar with it, to better understand how to access these opportunities.
Can you explain the key features of the roadshow? What were some of the standout moments or highlights?
The roadshow brought together an impressive range of expertise to help Canadian researchers connect with European opportunities. Speakers included European Commission representatives, EU delegation members, and experts from key organisations like the European Research Council and EURAXESS North America. European diplomatic representatives also attended sessions in some cities, presenting a “Team Europe Approach” and offering direct, on-the-ground support to Canadian participants.
The events drew strong interest from across Canada’s research community. Researchers, academic institutions, and private sector innovators came together to learn about these new opportunities for international collaboration. Horizon Europe participants shared their experiences working with European partners through the programme, showing the significant opportunities now open to researchers across Canada. The sessions were particularly well attended, drawing nearly 600 participants.
What were the outcomes? Have there been any specific partnerships or projects initiated as a result?
By equipping participants with the right tools and information, the roadshow successfully opened doors for Canadian researchers to access Horizon Europe funding opportunities. Participants from diverse fields – including artificial intelligence, genomics, and ocean technology – gained practical knowledge about how to engage in European research partnerships through Horizon Europe.
The impact was clear: attendees reported feeling confident about applying their new knowledge, and nearly all participants reported satisfaction with the sessions. There was also strong Canadian participation in subsequent matchmaking events and partner searches. The Canadian Horizon Europe Secretariat has also seen growing interest through increased website traffic, newsletter subscriptions, and direct inquiries. Most importantly, the roadshow helped build on the broader trend of growing Canadian engagement within Horizon Europe.
What kind of questions did you receive from participants about the Canada and Horizon Europe collaboration? Were there any surprising insights or challenges highlighted?
Participants asked practical questions about how to navigate this new opportunity, particularly how Horizon Europe differs from traditional Canadian funding programs. They were also interested in understanding the benefits of Canada’s associate status under Pillar 2; finding and connecting with European and international research partners; navigating the European Commission’s programme administration; and accessing support from the Canadian Horizon Europe Secretariat and Canadian National Contact Point network.
The sessions sparked valuable discussions about challenges researchers face, especially in managing administrative and legal requirements and complexities. This direct feedback helps the Secretariat better support Canadian participants as they pursue partnerships through Horizon Europe.
Which sectors or fields of research have shown the most promise or are being prioritised for collaboration between Canada and Europe?
Horizon Europe creates opportunities for Canadian researchers and innovators to tackle major global challenges while advancing Canadian priorities. Recognising the importance of international collaboration in addressing these major societal challenges, the Canadian Horizon Europe Secretariat is supporting applicants in a wide range of areas such as health, climate, energy, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, quantum, space, agriculture, and the bioeconomy.
What’s next for the Canada and Horizon Europe collaboration? Do you anticipate future roadshows?
Building on the roadshow’s success, the Canadian Horizon Europe Secretariat continues to support Canadian researchers and innovators. Working with Horizon Europe experts and networks, the Secretariat is developing specialised technical training and targeted matchmaking events to connect Canadian and European partners. These activities will help ensure Canadian researchers can successfully participate in and benefit from these international opportunities.
Please note, this article will also appear in the 23rd edition of our quarterly publication.