The European Commission has published a new Horizon Europe Annotated Grant Agreement (AGA) version on the Funding & Tender Portal. This update, effective from April 1, 2025, includes several essential clarifications and modifications aimed at improving the understanding and implementation of grant agreements under Horizon Europe.

Key Updates and Clarifications

The latest version of the AGA introduces refinements to multiple articles, ensuring greater transparency and accuracy in cost calculations and record-keeping. Some of the notable changes include:

  • Article 6.1 – Further clarification on identifiable and verifiable costs, emphasizing the need for costs to be either paid or recorded.
  • Articles 6.1 & 6.2.A.1 – Guidance on calculating the daily rate for eligible personnel costs incurred after the project’s completion.
  • Articles 6.2.A.2 & 6.2.A.3 – Specification that the 215-day ceiling applies only if the 215 annual day-equivalents are used in daily rate calculations.
  • Articles 6.2.A.4 & 6.2.A.6 – Additional details on the application of the 215-day ceiling for SME owner unit costs and HE Personnel unit costs (PUC).
  • Articles 6.D.1 & 9.4 – Clarifications regarding Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP) with an added reference link.
  • Article 20 – New record-keeping rules for simplified costs, including:
    • The addition of Option 2c for specifying a number of working days per year.
    • Two specific cases to address work pattern variations, such as seasonal fluctuations and changes in working hours.
  • Article 21.2 – New requirements for cost-reporting records related to affiliated entities.
  • Article 24.4 – A link to the latest Simplified Payment Arrangement (SPA) procedure guidance.

Why These Updates Matter

These clarifications will aid beneficiaries in complying with the financial and administrative requirements of Horizon Europe grants. They aim to simplify reporting obligations, ensure consistent interpretation of cost calculations, and enhance financial transparency.

For further details, visit the Funding & Tender Portal.