On 27 November 2025, a hybrid seminar titled “Horizon Europe: Current Issues and Widening Participation” was held at the Vasyl Stefanyk Carpathian National University. The event focused on opportunities for Ukrainian researchers to participate in the Horizon Europe programme and to enhance cooperation with key institutions of the European Union. The seminar brought together both on-site and online participants.
Over the course of two hours, attendees received up-to-date information on support instruments available for Ukrainian researchers, funding opportunities for 2026, financial aspects of project preparation, and the priorities of major European research institutions. The programme featured five substantial presentations delivered by experts from the National Contact Points (NCPs).
From WIDERA to ERA: Opportunities for Ukraine
Olha Sulema, PhD, Head of the NCP for Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area, presented the key support instruments available within WIDERA and outlined how Ukrainian institutions can benefit from mechanisms designed to facilitate integration into the European Research Area (ERA).
Funding Landscape for 2026
Maria Dubniak, PhD in Law, Senior Specialist of the NCP for Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area, focused on the calls expected in 2026. She highlighted the thematic areas where Ukrainian teams have the strongest potential and provided recommendations on preparing high-quality proposals.
Financial Aspects of Project Preparation
In his presentation, Sergii Pugach, Head of the Euratom NCP in Ukraine (fission), outlined the key financial requirements for international technical assistance projects under Horizon Europe. He described common budgeting mistakes and shared practical advice for newcomers to the programme.
European Research Council: Upcoming Calls
Tetiana Popova, Head of the NCPs for Legal and Financial Aspects and for the European Research Council (ERC), presented an overview of current ERC calls and clarified the eligibility and application requirements. She placed particular emphasis on opportunities for researchers applying for the first time.
Opportunities of the Joint Research Centre
The seminar concluded with a presentation by Liubomyr Nykyrui, Head of the NCP for the Joint Research Centre (JRC). He discussed cooperation formats between the JRC and Ukrainian research institutions, mobility instruments, and access to open research infrastructures.
The event served as a practical platform for discussing the participation of Ukrainian researchers in European programmes and preparing competitive project proposals for 2026. Participants received answers to practical questions, learned about new opportunities, and engaged in professional dialogue on advancing Ukraine’s integration into the European Research Area.
