The European Research Council (ERC) has officially launched its 2026 Work Programme—an ambitious roadmap that mobilizes over €2.6 billion to support the most cutting-edge science across Europe. This new round of calls not only brings updated timelines and budgets, but also introduces key changes in evaluation processes, eligibility criteria, and proposal structure.
It reflects a renewed commitment to scientific excellence—but also defines a highly competitive landscape, where less than 15% of proposals are funded. In this context, having a brilliant idea is no longer enough: you also need strategy, clarity, narrative strength, and expert guidance. That’s where Kveloce comes in.
What’s new in ERC 2026? More demanding, more inclusive, more global
One of the most significant changes from 2026 onward is the restructuring of proposals into two clearly defined parts. Part I, just five pages long, will summarize the scientific concept, objectives, and originality of the project. Part II will provide a detailed explanation of the methodology and implementation plan.
This is no minor update—Part I becomes a decisive filter: if it doesn’t convince, evaluators won’t even read Part II. Moreover, project feasibility will only be assessed in Step 2 of the evaluation process, which places even more emphasis on the transformative potential of the idea in the initial selection.
There are also notable improvements in inclusivity and talent attraction. Researchers based outside Europe will be eligible to request up to €2 million in additional funding to support relocation—now including personnel costs. Meanwhile, the eligibility criteria for Starting and Consolidator Grants have been expanded to include cases of gender-based violence and a broader definition of parental leave.
Finally, resubmission rules have become stricter: Synergy Grant applicants who receive a “B” score at Step 1 of the 2025 call will not be eligible to reapply immediately.
Key dates and multimillion-euro budgets
The calendar is already set. Starting and Synergy Grant calls will open in July 2025, while the Consolidator Grant will open in September, and the Advanced Grant in May 2026. Each call will distribute hundreds of millions of euros, with estimates ranging from 49 to 450 grants depending on the scheme.
What makes a proposal stand out in the ERC?
The ERC doesn’t fund applied science or incremental innovation. It seeks bold, high-risk ideas with disruptive impact. But it also demands flawless scientific narrative, a clear structure, and a well-articulated strategic rationale.
At Kveloce, we’ve been supporting European researchers for over 20 years. Our multidisciplinary team has worked with more than 250 ERC applicants, with a success rate above the EU average and over 50 funded projects across all grant categories: Starting, Consolidator, Advanced, and Synergy.
We offer a comprehensive service, from initial feasibility assessment (Go/No Go) to scientific review, structural editing, strategic advising, and personalized interview preparation. We know how the ERC works—and more importantly, we know how to help you stand out.
A challenge for bold minds
Applying to the ERC is not easy. It demands time, focus, and resilience. But it also offers a unique opportunity to elevate your scientific career, lead your own research agenda, and join Europe’s most influential academic voices.
If you have a strong idea and a track record to support it, Kveloce can help you turn it into a winning proposal. We combine methodology, deep programme expertise, and strategic insight to transform scientific ambition into tangible results.
