The European Commission has announced a recent investment of €29 million in three initiatives under Horizon Europe’s WIDERA program, looking to support public engagement with science, provide better opportunities for early-career researchers, and enhance the practical application of research in society and the economy
One of the main goals of this investment is to make science more accessible to the public and ensure that research is not just limited to academia but can have a tangible impact on everyday life.
To achieve this, the Commission focuses on initiatives connecting citizens with researchers, making science more relatable and relevant. By involving people directly in scientific projects, the overall hope is to increase trust in science and create innovation that benefits everyone.
Transforming cities into science hubs
One of the projects part of the €6 million initiative “Science Comes to Town 2026” will see three European cities, Brest (France), Kiel (Germany), and Split (Croatia), turn into vibrant hubs of scientific discovery in 2026.
These cities will host year-long programs to bring science directly to the streets. Through interactive exhibitions, public discussions, and hands-on activities, citizens can engage with the latest scientific developments and explore how research impacts their daily lives.
This project is designed to create meaningful dialogues between researchers and the public, bridging the gap between complex scientific topics and everyday concerns.
A main focus will be on engaging young people by showing the exciting potential of research careers. Special events such as the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) and EU TalentOn will emphasise the opportunities for the next generation to pursue careers in science and innovation.
Supporting early-career researchers
Another plan for the funding is a €20 million initiative aimed at creating strong talent ecosystems for early-career researchers.
This project is designed to improve researchers’ working conditions, giving them the support and career prospects needed to thrive.
It also promotes collaboration between academia, industry, and other sectors to provide clear pathways for researchers to transition into stable and impactful careers.
The project will focus on key areas such as green energy, digital technologies, and deep tech, where Europe requires highly skilled talent to maintain its global competitiveness. By aligning research training with industry and societal needs, the project hopes to make research careers more attractive and accessible to diverse talent. Mobility and skills development will also be a key focus, delivering opportunities for researchers to gain experience in multiple sectors.
Research on real-world impact
In addition to supporting research careers, the Commission dedicates €3 million to projects that focus on turning research into real-world solutions.
The “Experimentation and Exchange of Good Practices for Value Creation” project will support projects that hope to speed up the transfer of scientific knowledge to businesses, policymakers, and communities.
These projects will explore new ways to make research findings more accessible and applicable to the needs of society. By encouraging collaboration between research institutions, small businesses, and the wider industry, the project hopes to enhance the practical impact of research and ensure that it reaches its full potential for creating value in society.
The future of science and innovation in Europe
These new projects are part of Europe’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as a global leader in research and innovation.
By supporting early-career researchers, encouraging public engagement with science, and promoting the practical application of research, Europe is setting the stage for a more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable future.
The projects will begin once grant agreements are signed, paving the way for impactful actions shaping the future of research, innovation, and public engagement across Europe.
