Horizon Europe FP10 draft regulation: strategic developments for research and innovation 2028-2034

A draft regulation establishing the next Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, Horizon Europe (FP10), for the period 2028 to 2034 was circulated. Building on the previous Horizon Europe initiative, this proposal is designed to reinforce the EU’s scientific and technological base, enhance competitiveness, and address critical societal and environmental challenges through collaborative, cross-border efforts. 

Framed within the political priorities of the 2024-2029 Commission mandate, the programme supports the EU’s broader ambition to remain competitive in the face of global challenges such as climate change, digitalisation, and shifting geopolitical and demographic trends. Horizon Europe is closely coordinated with the proposed European Competitiveness Fund, with the aim of streamlining EU funding through simplified procedures and strategic focus.  

A new four-pillar structure

The FP10 draft regulation introduces a restructured programme composed of four pillars: 

1. Excellent science. This pillar will strengthen Europe’s science base through continued support to the European Research Council and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. This will encourage cutting-edge research, researcher mobility, and appealing research careers. The Joint Research Centre will continue to provide scientific support for EU policymaking. 
2. Competitiveness and society. Addressing global societal challenges and industrial competitiveness, this pillar will integrate thematic R&I activities that align with strategic EU priorities such as clean industrial transition, health and biotechnology, digital leadership, and resilience (including defence and space). Research in these areas will support innovation in transport, mobility, and industrial systems. 
   EU Missions under this pillar aim to create systemic impacts through coordinated, cross-sectoral R&I activities. They offer potential support for solutions addressing emissions reduction, automation, and data-driven logistics, as part of broader societal and environmental goals. 
   “Moonshot” projects mentioned in the document include among others the development of automated mobility in Europe, with the objective to improve safety, traffic efficiency, emissions, and inclusiveness in transport. This represents a clear opportunity for innovation in logistics, particularly in the deployment of automated systems in freight and supply chains. 
3. Innovation. This pillar focuses on supporting start-ups and scale-ups through the European Innovation Council Enhanced mechanisms include a Scaleup Europe Fund and DARPA-like approaches for high-risk, high-reward innovation. It promotes the deeper integration of the knowledge triangle, linking research, education and innovation. Noteworthy mechanisms include those accelerating innovation in sectors such as quantum technologies, cleantech, and digital infrastructure, which are becoming increasingly integral to logistics systems. 
4. European Research Area. This pillar is designed to advance policy coordination and capacity building across Europe. It addresses widening participation, strengthening research infrastructures, and improving systemic R&I governance. 

Simplification and accessibility 

The programme aims to simplify processes by introducing a harmonised rulebook, increasing the use of lump sums, streamlining funding rates and encouraging the adoption of simplified cost options. Most beneficiaries will be subject to a single funding rate of up to 100%, except for-profit entities other than SMEs, which will be subject to a rate of up to 70%. These reforms are intended to make the programme more accessible, particularly for SMEs and new entrants. 

Synergies and strategic coherence 

Horizon Europe will work in synergy with other EU instruments, particularly through alignment with the European Competitiveness Fund and its Competitiveness Coordination Tool. This integrated approach ensures that industrial and research investments are aligned with shared European goals, enabling coherent, impactful support for innovation across the EU. 

International cooperation and strategic autonomy 

The proposal reinforces the importance of international collaboration, while safeguarding the EU’s strategic autonomy and economic security. Participation will be open to a range of associated countries, with specific provisions in place to balance risk and benefit and protect the Union’s interests. 

Towards 3% GDP investment in R&I 

The regulation reiterates the EU’s long-standing goal of investing 3% of GDP in R&D. Horizon Europe will complement national efforts and stimulate additional public and private investment, with progress monitored via the European Semester process. 

Implications for the logistics sector 

The proposed integration with the ECF will present new strategic opportunities for logistics and supply chain innovation, particularly with regard to decarbonisation, digital transformation, and resilience. The streamlined partnership framework and increased focus on applied research and innovation scale-up are aligned with ALICE’s mission to support the transition towards net-zero emission logistics in Europe. 

Furthermore, the programme’s commitment to research infrastructures and inclusive participation across regions supports ALICE’s objectives to foster collaboration among industry, academia, and public institutions. 

Next steps 

The European Commission is expected to publish the final legislative proposal on 16 July 2025 as part of the broader package for the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework. The draft regulation is still subject to amendments throughout the legislative process, which involves the European Parliament and the Council. 

Source: HE-FP10 – draft regulation.pdf