"Euresearch Info" November 2025
Guest Article:
Switzerland Associates to Horizon Europe: Renewed Access, New Opportunities
The EU Programmes Agreement represents a significant milestone in Switzerland's long-standing and forward-looking cooperation with the EU in education, research, and innovation. Being actively engaged in these fields, you know better than anyone that participation in EU programmes is strategically vital. It provides access to leading international networks, promotes scientific excellence, and enables joint responses to global challenges—from the energy transition and digital transformation to health and security.
As a result of the Agreement, researchers and innovators in Switzerland will once again be funded directly by the European Commission from 2025 onward. To this end, Switzerland will contribute financially to the EU, thereby reaffirming its commitment to international cooperation in research and innovation.
With the 2026 and 2027 Work Programmes expected to be adopted by the end of 2025, I strongly encourage you to begin preparing proposals. These upcoming calls will offer a wide range of opportunities to contribute to the international research and innovation landscape. Switzerland's association to EU programmes is not only a return to full participation, it is also an opportunity to strengthen global partnerships, advance scientific knowledge, and drive innovation that benefits society.
To support this effort, Euresearch stands ready to assist you. Its expertise and tailored guidance can significantly enhance the quality and competitiveness of your proposals.
Together, we can ensure that Switzerland continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of education, research and innovation in Europe and beyond.
Author: Michael Gerber, Ambassador and Head of the International Programmes and Organisations Division, SERI
Illustration: Katja Stähli