Expert Knowledge: New DESCA HE AP 2.0 model consortium agreement published

In August 2025, the DESCA initiative published an updated version of its model consortium agreement for EU research and innovation projects: DESCA HE AP 2.0. This freely accessible model agreement has been the de facto standard for European research projects for many years, and is used by universities, research institutions, and companies alike.

What is DESCA?

DESCA (Development of a Simplified Consortium Agreement) is a Europe-wide initiative involving industry associations, university networks, and research organisations. Since the 7th EU Framework Programme, it has provided a practical model contract for consortia, legally securing and supplementing cooperation in EU projects.

A DESCA consortium agreement regulates the following, among other things:

• Roles and obligations of the partners
• Governance structures (e.g. decision-making processes)
• Financial flows and cost regulations
• Intellectual property and access to results.
• Confidentiality and publication.
• Liability and dispute resolution

DESCA thus provides a fair, neutral and balanced contractual basis that is accepted by all project partners.

Key innovations of the DESCA-HE AP 2.0

The new version has been adapted to the current Horizon Europe framework conditions and introduces the following changes:

1. Clear mapping of funding types

• Options for actual cost grants and lump sum grants
• New regulations on pre-financing, payment flows and internal reports

2. Integration of Associated Partners (APs)

• New clause in § 4.2 regulates the role, duties and liability of APs.
• APs participate in governance, but with limited voting rights.
• No entitlement to EU funds, but obligation to submit termination reports

3. Liability provisions have been adapted

• New Section 5.3: Protection for representatives, employees and auxiliary persons
• Compensation is only possible in cases of intent or gross negligence.

4. Flexible governance modules

• GOV SP: Simple structure with a general assembly (supplemented by a work package leaders group for lump sum grants).
• GOV LP: A complex structure with a general assembly and an executive board.

With DESCA HE AP 2.0, project consortia now have access to an even more flexible and legally secure contract model. Whether for traditional cost projects or lump sum funding, the new version establishes clear rules for all parties involved and, for the first time, also considers the role of associated partners.

Further information can be found directly on the DESCA website.