Japan Joins EU's €93.5bn Horizon Europe Research Program

Researchers across Japan can now tap into one of the world's largest science funding programs, opening doors to collaborative breakthroughs on challenges from ocean health to renewable energy.

Japan officially became the newest member of Horizon Europe, the European Union's €93.5 billion research and innovation program running through 2027. The agreement puts Japanese scientists and organizations on equal footing with researchers from EU member states and 22 other associated countries, including the UK, Canada, and Ukraine.

The partnership centers on Horizon Europe's third pillar, a €52.4 billion fund supporting multinational projects addressing climate change, energy transitions, health challenges, and digital transformation. Japanese teams have already started applying for funding under transitional arrangements that began in January this year.

The collaboration builds on years of scientific friendship between Japan and the EU. In early 2023, the two partners agreed to share Earth observation data for space research, and they launched a joint dialogue on advanced materials a year later.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership extends beyond laboratory walls into real-world impact. Earlier this month, a Horizon Europe-funded international team set off on an expedition to track chemical and biological changes in the North Atlantic Ocean, the kind of climate-critical research Japanese scientists can now join.

With 123 million people, Japan becomes the most populous country associated with the program. The nation will contribute financially to cover Japanese organizations participating in research projects, ensuring the program's sustainability while gaining access to cutting-edge European research networks.

"As Horizon Europe's 23rd associated country, Japan strengthens a growing global community that believes openness, excellence and international cooperation are essential to turning research into innovation and innovation into prosperity," said Ekaterina Zaharieva, EU commissioner for startups, research and innovation.

The program funds research tackling some of humanity's biggest challenges, from achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to addressing the climate crisis. By pooling resources and talent across borders, Horizon Europe accelerates the journey from laboratory discovery to solutions that improve lives.

Science works best when brilliant minds collaborate without borders.