Dutch Researchers Secure Over €1 Billion in Horizon Europe Funding
Amsterdam, Saturday, 9 August 2025.
Dutch scientists have gained more than €1 billion for fundamental research from Horizon Europe, emphasizing the Netherlands’ key role in addressing global challenges through scientific innovation.
Overview of Horizon Europe Funding
Over the past four years, Dutch researchers have successfully secured over €1 billion from the Horizon Europe program, a testament to the Netherlands’ continued emphasis on cutting-edge scientific research. This funding is drawn from a total allocation of €95.5 billion designated by the European Union for research and innovation, emphasizing the strategic importance of scientific investments in addressing key global challenges [1][2].
Significant Contributions and Projects
The Dutch funding success under Horizon Europe highlights several groundbreaking scientific endeavors, including projects aimed at cancer treatment, understanding the neuroscience of decision-making, and innovative environmental monitoring from space. A particularly noteworthy project under development involves restoring vision to blind individuals via brain implants—a project receiving financial backing from the Horizon initiative. Such endeavors reflect the interdisciplinary nature of Dutch scientific inquiries that often cross traditional academic boundaries [1][2].
Support and Vision from the Netherlands
Minister Bruins expressed pride over the achievements of Dutch scientists, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the Netherlands’ status as a world leader in science. By being a net recipient of European funding, the country illustrates its prestigious standing within the scientific community. Minister Bruins also called for a reinforcement of the research and innovation programs to adapt to the rapidly changing world. This commitment to sustaining high levels of scientific investigation positions the Netherlands as a key player in European cooperative ventures [1].
Future of Horizon Europe
As the Horizon Europe program runs until 2027, preparations are underway for a successor program. Dutch researchers and enterprises have already benefited from over €4.5 billion since the inception of Horizon Europe in 2021. Given the impending expiration, the European Commission is expected to propose a new framework, reinforcing strategic cooperation between innovators across Europe. These initiatives promise to continue empowering Dutch scientists in their pursuit of transformative scientific research in the coming years [1].