Horizon Europe 2026/2027: Updated annotated application template for RIA and IA proposals

An updated annotated application template is now available for the 2026 and 2027 Horizon Europe calls. The German National Contact Points (NCPs) have revised their guidance for Research and Innovation Actions (RIA) and Innovation Actions (IA) to reflect changes to the application forms. The document provides practical guidance and explanations to support applicants in preparing Horizon Europe proposals.

For the Horizon Europe 2026–2027 calls, parts of the application forms have been revised, particularly for collaborative projects. The German National Contact Points have therefore updated their annotated application template for Research and Innovation Actions (RIA) and Innovation Actions (IA).

Practical guidance for Horizon Europe proposals

The annotated template complements the official European Commission application form with explanations and practical advice. It provides applicants with guidance on how to structure and develop their proposals and how to address the requirements of the application form.

This is particularly relevant as the structure of a Horizon Europe proposal is closely aligned with the evaluation criteria: Excellence, Impact, and Quality and Efficiency of the Implementation. Applicants should therefore carefully consider the formal and substantive requirements set out in the application template for the respective call.

Which Horizon Europe proposals does the annotated template apply to?

The updated guidance is intended for applicants preparing a full proposal for a Research and Innovation Action (RIA) or Innovation Action (IA). In particular, it applies to:

• full proposals submitted under single-stage calls; and
• full proposals submitted in the second stage of two-stage calls. 

In the first stage of a two-stage procedure, applicants initially submit a short proposal. Not all sections of the full application template are therefore relevant at this stage.

Access the updated annotated application template for RIA and IA proposals

BayFOR supports Horizon Europe applicants in Bavaria

Are you planning a research or innovation project and considering applying to a Horizon Europe call in 2026 or 2027? The Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) supports universities, research institutions, companies and other stakeholders in Bavaria in preparing European research and innovation projects – from assessing a project idea and identifying suitable funding opportunities to developing a competitive proposal.

Our experts will be happy to advise you on funding opportunities under Horizon Europe and support you in preparing your proposal.