The ERC does not support networks or international consortia, but individual Principal Investigators (PI) and their research teams. The only evaluation criterion is scientific excellence - both of the project and of the investigator. This includes previous achievements in the field but also requires an entirely new revolutionary idea that is not a mere continuation of previous achievements, and that can significantly influence the field, push its boundaries or open up new research perspectives.
Supporting the independent careers of outstanding young scientists in the phase of setting up their own research teams or programmes.
Project Workload: 50%
Time Required in the EU/Associated Countries: 50%
2-7 years after PhD defence
from WP ERC 2027 change: 0-10 years after PhD defence
€1.5 million for 5 years
Supporting the independent careers of outstanding young scientists in the consolidation phase of their own research teams or programmes.
Project Workload: 40%
Time Required in the EU/Associated Countries: 50%
7-12 years after PhD defence
from WP ERC 2027 change: 5-15 years after PhD defence
€2 million for 5 years
Supporting internationally recognized, independent experts who have already established themselves in the field and made a demonstrable impact.
Project Workload: 30%
Time Required in the EU/Associated Countries: 50%
10-year results
€2.5 million over 5 years
New ERC Scheme Piloted for Work Programs 2026 and 2027
Supporting highly ambitious projects proposed by exceptional Principal Investigators that cannot be pursued under standard ERC schemes. It is the ERC’s most competitive call, with only 30 grants awarded each year.
This opportunity is open to all PIs, regardless of their career stage. Grants can be up to €7 million for a duration of 4 to 7 years.
Project Workload: 30%
Time Required in the EU/Associated Countries: 50%
Support for ambitious ideas that cannot be solved individually by individual PIs - unique complementarity of expertise, resources, equipment, etc.
Project Workload: 30%
Time Required in the EU/Associated Countries: 50%
2-4 PIs
€10 million for 6 years
Support for the exploration of the potential for commercial or societal exploitation of ERC project outputs for ERC researchers only.
€150k for a maximum of 18 months
Would you like to know more about any of the grants? Take a look at the overall overview of "ERC funding opportunities" we have prepared for you.
