The European Commission has launched a public consultation inviting stakeholders from EU Member States and Horizon Europe associated countries to help shape the future of European Partnerships under the next EU research and innovation framework programme (2028–2034). Research organisations, universities, businesses, public authorities, civil society organisations and citizens are encouraged to contribute by 16 October 2026.
European Partnerships are a key implementation instrument of Horizon Europe, bringing together the European Commission, national authorities and private stakeholders to address strategic research and innovation challenges. The current portfolio includes 60 partnerships organised into three categories: Co-Programmed, Co-Funded, and Institutionalised partnerships.
As part of the preparations for the next framework programme, the Commission proposes a significant reform of the European Partnerships landscape. The objective is to reduce fragmentation, simplify governance and strengthen alignment with EU strategic priorities and the future European Competitiveness Fund. A portfolio-based approach is foreseen, replacing numerous individual initiatives with a smaller number of coordinated partnerships focused on Europe's most pressing competitiveness challenges. Most future partnerships are expected to follow a tripartite model involving the European Union, Member States and/or Associated Countries, and industry partners.
The Commission also proposes simplifying the legal framework governing Institutionalised Partnerships by introducing a common legislative act for Joint Undertakings. In addition, future partnerships are expected to place greater emphasis on accelerating the journey from research results to market uptake, investment and commercialisation.
The public consultation consists of three questionnaires covering:
• the future of Institutionalised Partnerships (Articles 185 and 187 TFEU);
• the future European Partnerships portfolio for 2028–2034;
• respondent information, including participation in existing partnerships.
The questionnaires are available through the EU Login Portal. Participants must first register in the EU Transparency Register before completing the consultation.
Stakeholders across Europe's research and innovation ecosystem are encouraged to share their views and contribute to shaping the next generation of Horizon Europe Partnerships.