Horizon 2020

Definition

Horizon 2020 is the European Union's flagship research and innovation program, designed to foster economic growth and job creation by funding collaborative research projects across various fields. It aims to address societal challenges and enhance the competitiveness of European industries by promoting international collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers, businesses, and public organizations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Horizon 2020 had a budget of nearly €80 billion allocated over seven years from 2014 to 2020, making it one of the largest research funding programs in the world.
2. The program encourages participation from various stakeholders, including universities, research institutions, private companies, and non-profit organizations across Europe and beyond.
3. Horizon 2020 emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches to research, allowing for diverse perspectives and solutions to complex societal challenges.
4. The program supports the commercialization of research results through initiatives aimed at boosting innovation and fostering entrepreneurship in Europe.
5. Horizon 2020 has led to significant advancements in fields such as renewable energy, healthcare technologies, and digital innovation by funding groundbreaking projects.

Review Questions

• How does Horizon 2020 promote collaborative research among different sectors?
  • Horizon 2020 promotes collaborative research by bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, including academia, industry, and public organizations. It provides funding opportunities that encourage partnerships across borders and disciplines, fostering innovation through shared expertise. By creating a platform for collaboration, Horizon 2020 helps to address complex societal challenges more effectively than individual efforts could achieve.
• In what ways does Horizon 2020 impact the European economy and job market?
  • Horizon 2020 impacts the European economy by investing in research and innovation that drives economic growth and job creation. By funding projects that enhance competitiveness and support the development of new technologies, it stimulates industries and helps to create high-quality jobs. The program also encourages entrepreneurship and supports small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), further contributing to a dynamic job market within the EU.
• Evaluate the significance of Horizon 2020's focus on Societal Challenges in shaping future research priorities within the EU.
  • The focus on Societal Challenges within Horizon 2020 signifies a strategic approach to addressing pressing global issues such as climate change, health crises, and sustainable development. By prioritizing these challenges, Horizon 2020 shapes future research directions in the EU, ensuring that funding is directed toward projects that have a meaningful impact on society. This alignment not only enhances public trust in science but also ensures that research efforts are relevant and beneficial to citizens, thus fostering a more sustainable and resilient future for Europe.

Related terms

European Commission: The executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and managing the EU's day-to-day operations, including overseeing Horizon 2020.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions: A part of Horizon 2020 that provides funding for researchers at all stages of their careers, promoting mobility, training, and collaboration across borders.

Societal Challenges: Key areas identified by Horizon 2020 that require research and innovation to tackle pressing issues such as health, energy, transport, and climate change.