Online information sessions on the WIDERA program and Call

The European Commission is organizing on December 11, 2025 and January 22, 2026 two online information sessions dedicated to Calls new Calls Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area program – WIDERAINFO DAY, within the scope of the Work Program for the 2026-2027 biennium.

On December 11, funding opportunities focused on "Strengthening the European R&I System" (ERA) will be presented; on January 22, Calls will be presented Calls "Access to Excellence" and "Talents" (Widening), areas where the program has been a strategic pillar for the national science and technology system.

During the information sessions, experts from the European Commission will detail the topics of Calls, the rules for participation, and the new features introduced for the 2026-2027 period. This will be a unique opportunity for the community to learn about the strategic priorities and clarify any questions about the application process. Participation is open to all, but it is recommended that you consult the 2026-2027 work program beforehand.

Portugal has already secured more than €160 million under this program, representing more than 10% of the total funding obtained by national entities, considering the entire Horizon Europe program. This performance is remarkable, considering that the Widening budget corresponds to only about 3% of the overall framework program budget, demonstrating the high level of mobilization of Portuguese institutions and the strategic importance they attach to this program.

You can find all events organized by the European Commission to promote Horizon Europe funding opportunities here.

Open Officesession dedicated to Call Twinning

To complement this session and specifically support national applicants to Call Twinning Call , the FCT National Contact Points (NCPs) will organize an "Open Office" session on December 16, 2025, between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., for which prior registration is required.

This online session will focus exclusively on clarifying strategic questions about preparing proposals for this funding instrument. A high level of competitiveness and participation is expected in Call will open in January, with a deadline for submitting applications in April 2026.