Insights
- Home
- Insights
The latest ERINN Innovation updates, including news from our projects and valuable insights into our work and impact. Use the tags below to quickly find related content.
- Horizon Europe
- Proposals
July 23, 2026
Expert Tips for Horizon Europe Pillar II Proposal Writing
As the summer days fly by and September deadlines loom, you might be wondering how you’ll ever reach your goal of submitting a Horizon Europe proposal. Never fear! Our proposal writing experts Pamela Cardillo and Casey Borklund have pulled together their top proposal-writing tips, drawn from supporting more than 200 Horizon Europe proposals, to help you write more efficiently and get back on track for the deadline. Horizon Europe Proposals: Section 1 – Excellence Excellence is all about the science and innovation behind your proposal. It should clearly demonstrate how your project goes beyond the state of the art while guiding evaluators through your methodology in a logical, progressive way that gives them the confidence your approach will deliver. Start strong First impressions matter. Grab the evaluator’s attention from the outset by setting the scene and drawing them into the story of your proposal. Be clear about the challenge you’re addressing and show early on why your project offers the right solution. Take evaluators on a journey. Don’t front-load every technical detail. Build your methodology progressively so each section naturally leads to the next. Give your key results memorable names Make it easy for evaluators to follow your proposal by using consistent terminology throughout. Rather than repeatedly referring to “the toolkit” or “the platform”, give key results distinctive names—for example, the ERINN Innovation Collaborative Toolkit. This helps evaluators instantly recognise what you’re referring to and reinforces your project’s identity. Use graphics wherever they add value A well-designed figure can explain a complex concept far more effectively than a paragraph of text. Where space allows, use diagrams, flowcharts and visuals to simplify complexity and improve readability. Don’t reinvent standard text Before drafting standard sections such as Gender Dimension, Open Science or Research Data Management, check whether your research office provides approved text that can be adapted for your proposal. There’s no need to start from scratch. Horizon Europe Proposals: Section 2 – Impact In the Impact section, you need to demonstrate that your project will create meaningful change beyond the lifetime of the project. Show evaluators that you understand the wider ecosystem your project sits within, have identified the right stakeholders to help maximise uptake of your results, and have a credible plan for communication, dissemination and exploitation that will turn your results into real-world impact. Brainstorm your impact pathways together Strong impact sections are rarely written in isolation. Bring your consortium together to map the pathways from each key result to the wider impacts your project aims to achieve. These discussions often uncover valuable connections that might otherwise be missed. (If you’d like some support, we regularly facilitate Impact Pathway Workshops.) Use tables strategically The 2026 template reduces Section 2.2 to just three pages, so every centimetre counts. Tables are an excellent way to clearly present target groups, key messages, communication activities and dissemination plans while making the section easier to navigate. Horizon Europe Proposals: Section 3 – Implementation Implementation focuses on how you will deliver your project in practice. It is your opportunity to demonstrate to evaluators that your ambitious idea can be successfully realised through a robust work plan, clearly defined roles, realistic timelines and effective project management. Draft your Gantt chart early The Gantt chart is often left as a finalising task but developing it early can save a lot of last-minute revisions. It’s one of the quickest ways to spot inconsistencies, overlaps or gaps across work packages before they become bigger problems. Build a realistic work plan Your work packages are essentially the instruction manual for delivering the project, and if you’re funded, they’re what you’ll be expected to implement. Be ambitious, but also realistic: clearly define who will do what, when and how. Your future self will thank you. Keep deliverables to a minimum Every deliverable creates work during the project. Include only those that are genuinely needed to demonstrate progress or fulfil the project’s objectives. Set your team up for success from the onset – your project team will appreciate the lighter administrative workload. Take risks seriously Risk management is an area where evaluators can quickly lose confidence. Speak with each partner about the operational risks they foresee and provide realistic mitigation measures. A thorough risk table demonstrates that your consortium has carefully thought through project delivery. And finally… Don’t underestimate how long final polishing and formatting will take! Aim to leave yourself at least a week for final checks, formatting and uploading to the Funding & Tenders Portal. We also recommend working directly in the official proposal template as soon as possible. Reformatting at the end almost always takes longer than expected, and good formatting can make a real difference when you’re trying to stay within the page limits. Explore our course Are you in the middle of proposal writing? If you’re looking for step-by-step guidance through every section of a Horizon Europe Pillar II proposal, check out our Proposal Writing Bootcamp. With more than 15 video lessons, fully updated for the 2026 template, the course walks you through each section at your own pace, helping you write with greater confidence and efficiency.
- Project News
July 14, 2026
PEGASUS Takes Off – New EU Project to Strengthen Public Trust in Urban Air Mobility
Imagine a future where medical supplies, urgent deliveries and essential services move above congested streets using quiet, low-emission aircraft. Turning that vision into reality requires more than technological innovation; it requires public confidence. The new Horizon Europe-funded project PEGASUS (Piloting European Green Air Mobility and Services for Urban Societal Readiness) has been launched to help Europe build a future for urban air mobility (UAM) that is sustainable, inclusive and trusted by citizens. Coordinated by Trinity College Dublin (TCD), the four-year, €4.83 million project brings together researchers, city authorities, social scientists, leading air mobility operators and citizens from across Europe to ensure that drones and other next-generation aerial transport services are not only technologically viable for urban logistics but also deliver real benefits for urban communities. A key objective of the project is the development of a pioneering Societal Readiness Score (SRS) for innovative air mobility (IAM) in urban logistics. Drawing on operational experience from more than 200,000 completed missions and over 200 daily ongoing operations, the consortium of 18 organisations will create, test and refine a comprehensive framework for evaluating public acceptance and societal impacts. The score will consider factors such as noise, privacy, safety, energy performance, climate impact and inclusivity. PEGASUS will test and showcase new UAM services in Ireland, Portugal, Italy and Bulgaria. These real-world demonstrations will explore how drones and other low-emission aircraft can be safely and effectively integrated into everyday life, while gathering valuable insights from citizens and local stakeholders. In Ireland, demonstrations will take place at the Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) vertiport in Shannon, where a range of aircraft operated by project partners Manna, Connect Robotics, Techno Sky and Dronamics will be tested. The vehicles will carry payloads ranging from small parcels of 2.5kg to larger cargo loads of up to 350kg. Demonstrations are also planned in operational settings used by project partners. Subject to the necessary approvals, public demonstration events will provide opportunities for people to see the technologies in action and share their views on the future of UAM. The project will develop practical tools to help decision-makers understand when and where UAM services are likely to be accepted by the public. These tools will help city authorities, regulators and service providers assess factors such as safety, noise, environmental impact and public attitudes when planning new services. PEGASUS will also produce guidance on drone infrastructure, explore how air-based deliveries can complement existing transport networks, and identify sustainable business models and effective ways to engage local communities. Its findings will help cities plan for future urban mobility and provide a roadmap that other European cities can follow, ensuring new services are practical, sustainable and trusted by the public while supporting Europe’s climate goals. PEGASUS Coordinator, Dr John Kennedy, Associate Professor in Vibrations, Acoustics and Dynamics in Trinity College Dublin’s School of Engineering, said: “Our cities need new mobility solutions. Traditional transport networks are under increasing pressure from congestion, growing demand for rapid deliveries and the urgent need to cut emissions. UAM could help address these challenges, but only if it earns the trust of the people it is designed to serve. PEGASUS is about understanding how communities, businesses and policymakers can shape the future of these services together. By working closely with all stakeholders, we aim to create a practical roadmap for integrating UAM into Europe’s transport systems ensuring they are introduced in ways that are useful, responsible and widely accepted.” The PEGASUS consortium gathered in Dublin on 26 June 2026 for its kick-off meeting, marking the beginning of a four-year collaboration dedicated to creating a more sustainable, connected and publicly accepted future for UAM in Europe. Figure 1. The PEGASUS consortium at the hybrid project kick-off meeting on 26 June 2026 at Trinity College Dublin, Ireland The consortium includes: Trinity College Dublin, Ireland HEAD acoustics, Germany ERINN Innovation, Ireland Universidade Nova De Lisboa, Portugal Universita Degli Studi Roma Tre, Italy Avtrain, Ireland Dronamics, Bulgaria Joint European Drone Associations (JEDA), Belgium Asociacija Dronea, Lithuania Universidad De Alcala, Spain Madan Parque, Portugal Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI), Ireland Manna Drones, Ireland Connect Robotics, Portugal Techno Sky, Italy Limerick City and County Council, Ireland Municipio De Almada, Portugal Cork County Council, Ireland For more information on the PEGASUS project, please visit CORDIS. The full PEGASUS website (pegasusproject.eu) is coming soon. Follow us on LinkedIn (PEGASUS EU Project) and BlueSky (PEGASUSEU).
- Project News
July 9, 2026
Helping Research Deliver Impact: The NETTAG+ Experience
After three years of collaboration, innovation and close partnership with the fisheries sector, the Horizon Europe NETTAG+ project successfully concluded in April 2026. Although the project has officially come to an end, its impact will continue well beyond its lifetime. Throughout the project, NETTAG+ has empowered fishers as key partners in tackling marine litter while advancing innovative technologies to locate, recover and reduce lost fishing gear. By combining stakeholder engagement with practical, field-tested solutions, the project has laid the foundations for cleaner seas, healthier marine ecosystems and more resilient, sustainable fisheries across Europe. About NETTAG+ Working in close collaboration with fishers, scientists and NGOs, the project empowered the fisheries sector to adopt more responsible practices for preventing marine litter and reducing the environmental impacts associated with fishing gear. It contributed to preventing fisheries-related marine litter, reducing the loss of fishing gear, and supporting the detection, tracking and recovery of abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), thereby contributing to healthier marine ecosystems and more sustainable fisheries. NETTAG+ solutions were tested, validated and demonstrated in real conditions in the following Atlantic and Mediterranean countries: • Portugal • Spain • Italy • Croatia • Malta • United Kingdom General Assembly Meeting in Patti, Sicily (Italy) May 2025. Photo: NETTAG+ Working in close collaboration with fishers, researchers, technology developers and local stakeholders, the demonstrations showcased the effectiveness of solutions like MyGearTag, an acoustic gear tracking system that enabled fishers to locate lost fishing gear. The demonstrations also tested IRIS, an autonomous underwater robotic system capable of detecting, tracking and supporting the recovery of abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG). Together, these technologies demonstrated an integrated approach to preventing ghost gear, reducing marine litter and supporting more sustainable fishing practices across a range of European fisheries. In addition to successfully demonstrating its technological solutions, NETTAG+ produced a range of key results to support their long-term uptake and replication. These included technical guidelines, best practice recommendations, scientific publications, policy briefs, communication materials and training resources that promoted the adoption of innovative technologies to prevent and recover ghost gear. Impact and Legacy Overview video capturing the key results and achievements of NETTAG+, from technological demonstrations to stakeholder collaboration and industry engagement. Video: WWF Mediterranean While NETTAG+ has officially concluded, the impact and legacy of the project will continue through the solutions, partnerships and knowledge developed over its lifetime. The strong collaborations established among fishers, researchers, technology developers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers will continue to support the uptake of innovative approaches to prevent, detect and recover ALDFG. The achievements and impact of NETTAG+ have also recently been highlighted by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA): NETTAG+: turning lost fishing gear into action for healthier European seas – European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency ERINN Innovation’s Role ERINN Innovation was central to support innovation management and exploitation activities of NETTAG+, ensuring that the project’s results were effectively connected with end users, industry stakeholders and broader policy objectives. Through our work on stakeholder engagement and the development of exploitation pathways, we contributed to bridging the gap between research outcomes and practical implementation, supporting the future uptake of NETTAG+ solutions beyond the project’s lifetime. As part of these activities, we supported the identification and development of seven Key Exploitable Results (KERs) emerging from the project. These results highlighted the most promising innovations and outputs generated by NETTAG+ and were published on the Horizon Results Platform, increasing their visibility and supporting opportunities for further development, uptake and impact within the marine and fisheries sectors. Reflecting on her time working on the NETTAG+ project, Karla Corrales, ERINN Innovation Communication Officer, said: “It has been really rewarding to be part of conversations that brought academia, industry and other stakeholders together, helping to connect research with real-world applications. Through NETTAG+, we had the opportunity to support activities such as developing business plans and exploring ways to help these innovations move beyond the project. One of the most exciting parts was seeing the change within the industry over the course of the project. New relationships were built, new collaborations emerged, and stakeholders came together with a shared goal of finding practical solutions to reduce ghost gear and support more sustainable fisheries. I look forward to seeing how these connections and innovations continue to develop beyond NETTAG+ and to the impact they can create in the years ahead.” Learn more about ERINN Innovation’s Knowledge Transfer and Impact services here.
- ERINN News
May 22, 2026
Strengthing Connections and Sharing Best Practice at the EARMA Conference
The ERINN Innovation team had a wonderful week at the EARMA Annual Conference 2026 in Utrecht earlier this month, and we returned home feeling inspired, energised, and deeply connected to the research management community. From engaging workshops and thought-provoking panel discussions to meaningful conversations with colleagues old and new, it’s clear that the EARMA community continues to grow year on year and is leading the way for the promotion of formal recognition for research managers. Focused Knowledge Transfer and Impact Insights Throughout the conference, there was strong interest in ERINN Innovation’s presentations and posters, with many attendees eager to continue discussions afterwards and exchange ideas on best practices in research support and proposal development. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to deliver two presentations across the two-day event. ERINN Innovation Senior Project Manager Eva Greene presented on Optimising Research to Policy Impact, sharing insights from a contract with Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency involving portfolio-wide engagement and transfer to policy, and reflected on the great discussions that emerged: “So many lessons and learnings to share from working intensively as a knowledge broker in this space, but also through ERINN Innovation’s services on impact training, workshops, proposal reviews and partner roles. The interest from Research Managers and Support Officers in tackling these challenges is great to see and I look forward to further connecting and collaborating as we try to bridge these gaps.” In his presentation, Designing Impact Pathways: A Workshop Approach for Research Managers, ERINN Innovation Executive Director Michael Papapetrou shared the methodology we use to run our Impact Pathway workshops, which generated huge interest from research managers across universities and research centres who were keen to understand and replicate the process within their own institutions. A key takeaway from this session was the importance of creating a workshop environment where partners feel comfortable brainstorming openly and collaboratively. Rather than needing to have all the answers, research managers can play a far more valuable role by asking the right questions and helping unlock the untapped expertise present within a consortium. Our Wider Presence Beyond our own presentations, EARMA 2026 offered an exceptional programme filled with practical insights, strategic discussions, and inspiring examples of innovation across the research management profession. Our team noted that every room was full of engaged attendees and this really demonstrated how much the community has grown and how valuable the conversations at the EARMA conference are. ERINN Innovation’s Pamela Cardillo and Tara Murphy both chaired sessions at the conference this year. Project Manager Pamela Cardillo chaired three sessions, with the TU Dublin session being particularly notable in terms of our own work. The session highlighted a strong example of best practice sharing in action, showcasing how tailored supports such as proposal reviews, webinars, EU Funding & Tenders Portal guidance, and Q&A sessions can significantly improve outcomes for applicants. For Pamela, this was one of her highlights: “One of my personal highlights this year was being selected to chair sessions in the Beatrixzaal plenary. To say I was surprised would be an understatement. It definitely pushed me beyond my comfort zone, but I’m very glad I did it. It turned out to be a genuinely rewarding experience, and I had the privilege of introducing and learning from some incredibly inspiring speakers.” Learning and Development Manager Tara Murphy also chaired three sessions and reflected on discussions surrounding how RM Comp is being utilised by research institutions across Europe as a tool to recognise and standardise research managers’ professional skills. Naturally, this also leads to its usage as a tool to consider and plan ongoing research manager professional development. Tara notes: “In ERINN Innovation’s extensive experience working alongside research managers across Europe, each has a unique remit within a complex and varying workplace and the key to optimal engagement with RM Comp is the understanding that no individual will need to deliver all 50 competencies. Through our own training activities we recognise the value of broader capacity building approaches.” A Welcome and Inspiring Community For our team, what stood out most this year was the openness of the research management community, especially when discussing the growing political and funding instability affecting universities and research institutions globally. However, this was balanced by the shared ambition to increase resilience through robust networks and collaborative models and a genuine willingness to share best practices and help each other. More than ever, this feels like a time for our community to come together, support one another, and continue building sustainable and collaborative research environments. EARMA conferences continue to provide an environment where knowledge sharing feels natural, collaboration is encouraged, and people are genuinely invested in helping one another succeed. While it was wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces, this year’s event also felt especially focused on building new relationships and expanding networks across Europe and beyond. We left Utrecht feeling incredibly grateful to be part of such an inspiring and welcoming community and excited for the collaborations still to come. Learn more about our services: Proposal Support & Training Communication, Dissemination, & Exploitation Knowledge Transfer & Impact
- ERINN News
- Knowledge Transfer
April 29, 2026
From Evidence to Action: Optimising Impact Through Knowledge Transfer
As policymakers face increasingly complex environmental and societal challenges, the need for timely, relevant and actionable evidence continues to grow. At ERINN Innovation, we believe that impact can be accelerated by taking a deliberate and systematic approach to connecting research with decision-making, one that recognises the realities of policy processes as well as the practical barriers to uptake. Ahead of our upcoming EARMA conference presentation on optimising research to policy impact, this article outlines our approach to Knowledge Transfer and reflects on insights from a contract with Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Why Research-to-Policy Impact Remains a Challenge Across Europe and beyond, investment in research is increasing, alongside expectations that this will deliver tangible benefits for society. In practice, the pathway from research to policy is rarely linear. Research outputs are often highly technical and difficult to use outside specialist communities. They can be produced on timelines misaligned with policy cycles or are insufficiently framed around the specific questions policymakers are facing. Meanwhile, policy environments are shaped by shifting priorities, legislative timelines, external events and capacity constraints. Bridging this gap requires active knowledge brokerage, an understanding of context and a clear view of when and how research can be most useful. Our Knowledge Transfer Methodology ERINN Innovation has spent over a decade developing and refining a replicable methodology designed to support the uptake of research across policy, industry and practice. At its core, the approach recognises that impact is a process, not an event. Our methodology follows a stepwise structure: Prioritisation. Needs are mapped to portfolios to identify where there is opportunity and readiness for uptake, ensuring effort is focused where impact is most feasible. Collection. Discrete, solutions‑oriented units of knowledge are captured from research projects in a concise format, clarifying what the knowledge can inform and for whom. Analysis. The knowledge is reviewed with experts from policy, science and end‑user communities to assess relevance, readiness and define realistic pathways to impact. Transfer. Targeted activities are deployed to move knowledge along its pathway (e.g., briefings, tailored materials) with progress tracked to adapt when needed. This methodology can be applied to individual projects, thematic portfolios, or embedded within organisational processes to support longer‑term impact capability. Knowledge Transfer at Scale through EPA-IMPACT The EPA‑IMPACT project (2021–2025) provided a unique opportunity to implement this methodology at scale within Ireland’s environmental research and policy landscape. Commissioned by the EPA, the project aimed to accelerate the uptake of EPA‑funded research into policy and regulatory processes while building internal capacity for sustained Knowledge Transfer. Over four years, we worked closely with EPA staff, researchers and policy actors to: Map over 200 research projects to 53 Irish environmental policies Capture 91 actionable Knowledge Outputs from EPA‑funded research Engage more than 120 policy and subject‑matter experts in analysis activities Develop 35 tailored pathways to impact, supported by targeted communication assets EPA‑IMPACT placed a strong emphasis on embedding Knowledge Transfer principles within the EPA’s Research Programme. Training was delivered to over 260 researchers and research managers and bespoke resources were developed to support implementation beyond the project lifetime. Key Learnings from Transferring Research to Policy These experiences reinforce several principles that are central to effective research‑to‑policy impact: Plan early. Understanding policy needs and potential users from the outset increases the likelihood that research will be ready when decisions need to be made. Invest in relationships. Trusted connections between researchers, intermediaries and policymakers enable timely engagement and more meaningful exchange. Prioritise translation. Knowledge must be framed in ways that make sense to decision‑makers, with a clear articulation of practical relevance. Remain flexible. Policy priorities evolve, and effective Knowledge Transfer requires agility alongside robust preparation. Track impact deliberately. Progress and outcomes need to be captured, not assumed, to demonstrate value and inform future investment. Looking Ahead: Embedding Impact in Research Systems As expectations around research impact continue to grow, there is increasing recognition that Knowledge Transfer should be embedded across the research lifecycle, from programme design to project delivery and beyond. At ERINN Innovation, we work with funders, policymakers, researchers and project teams to integrate these practices in ways that are practical, proportionate and fit for purpose. Our experience shows that when Knowledge Transfer is systematic, collaborative and well‑resourced, research can move more effectively from evidence to action. We look forward to sharing further reflections at the upcoming EARMA conference, and to continue the conversation on how we can better can better support policy, practice and societal outcomes. Catch ERINN Innovation Senior Project Manager Eva Greene speaking at EARMA 2026 on Thursday morning at 11:00 CET. Explore our Knowledge Transfer & Impact Service.
- ERINN News
- Horizon Europe
April 23, 2026
Empowering Impact: ERINN Innovation at EARMA 2026
Every year, the EARMA conference is a highlight for our team and 2026 promises to be no exception. We’ve been attending for years — Oslo in 2022, Prague in 2023, Odense in 2024 and last year’s incredible INORMS conference in Madrid — each one bringing fresh insights, new friends, and happy memories of dancing in the legendary gala dinner conga line! It’s a privilege to be part of this vibrant community and to share our knowledge to help research managers and administrators navigate the complexities of EU funding. Leading for Impact: Our Focus For This Year This year, we’re delighted to be back and we’re ready to connect with colleagues from Europe and further afield. The conference theme, “Empowering Research Managers and Administrators as Leaders for Impact,” strongly aligns with our day-to-day work at ERINN Innovation. Through targeted training, hands-on proposal support, and tailored mentoring, we equip Research Managers and Administrators (RMAs) with the practical tools, strategic insight, and confidence needed to lead on impact within their organisations. Whether it’s strengthening impact pathways, embedding dissemination and exploitation strategies, or building institutional capacity for EU funding success, our focus is on enabling RMAs to fulfil their potential as proactive leaders delivering research with tangible societal value. Beyond Proposals: Building Impact Capacity One of the things we value most about EARMA is the opportunity to translate hands-on experience into practical takeaways for the community. Following the strong demand for our two sold-out pre-congress workshops on Impact-Driven Proposal Design for Horizon Europe last year, we’re bringing that same interactive approach into the main programme. This year, Michael Papapetrou will deliver a condensed, workshop-style session, “Designing Impact Pathways: A Workshop Approach for Research Managers,” giving participants a structured, practical toolkit they can immediately apply in their organisations. We’re also particularly excited to introduce our work on knowledge transfer at this year’s conference, with Eva Greene presenting “Optimising Research to Policy Impact.” This marks a new and growing area of our work, focused on strengthening how research translates into policy and real-world decision-making. Alongside these sessions, we’ll be showcasing posters on Living Labs and Impact Readiness Levels. Whether you’re looking for practical tools, fresh perspectives, or just a good conversation, there will be plenty of opportunities to connect with the ERINN Innovation team and explore what we’re working on. Looking Forward to living the Gouda life in Utrecht! As an Irish-based team, we can’t deny that we’re also looking forward to swapping the green fields of home for spring tulips in bloom! Utrecht’s rich history, culture, and energy make it an exciting destination for this year’s congress. Of course, the social side of the event is just as memorable as the professional discussions. The gala dinner is always a highlight, and we can’t wait to see if this year’s dance moves live up to previous years! If you’re attending EARMA 2026, we’d love to connect with you. Whether it’s at one of our oral or poster presentations, or over a coffee, do come and say hello. Let’s talk proposals, impact, and how to strengthen your organisation’s approach to European funding, while also taking a moment to enjoy everything that makes this conference such a fantastic event. See you in Utrecht! Learn more about our services, from proposal development to knowledge transfer.
- Project News
March 20, 2026
Discover the Work of Our Three Forest-Based EU Projects
The theme for International Day of Forests 2026 is Forests and Economies and the United Nations is highlighting the need to better recognise forests as “engines of inclusive growth and well-being and to scale up policies, partnerships and investments that place forests at the heart of resilient and sustainable economies”. In recognition of this, ERINN Innovation is spotlighting our three forest-based EU projects: SafeNet, OptiForValue and Trees4Adapt. SafeNet: Safeguarding Biodiversity and Carbon-rich Forest Networks in Europe Funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme, SafeNet works to counter biodiversity loss and bolster ecosystem resilience across European forests. In 2025, SafeNet produced its first key scientific outputs, including Europe wide maps of forest carbon distribution and future forest expansion under different land use scenarios. The project also completed early dissemination and communication materials and carried out its first EU level stakeholder engagement meeting, which brought together organisations working on forests, climate and conservation to help guide the project’s next steps. In 2026, SafeNet will deliver several important scientific results, including new biodiversity modelling outputs and the first set of practice abstracts highlighting options to support biodiversity in our case study regions. This year will also see the continuation of the project’s stakeholder engagement work, building on the EU level workshop held in December 2025 and expanding the dialogue with local and sectoral actors. The consortium will also meet in April in Córdoba, Spain, where partners will visit one of the project’s case study sites, engage with local stakeholders, and plan the next phase of research on forest biodiversity, carbon dynamics and resilience. Mathilde Vidal, ERINN Innovation Senior Project Officer, is leading Work Package 8: “SafeNet is addressing an urgent need to develop practical, forward looking strategies for conserving Europe’s forests in a changing climate. I am glad to contribute to this work and to help ensure that the knowledge we produce reaches the people who can turn it into real world impact.” OptiForValue: Optimising Forest Operations for Sustainable Forest Management and High-Value Applications The OptiForValue project, funded by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU), is working to advance sustainable forestry by developing innovative approaches that strengthen the resilience of forest-based value chains. Since its launch in 2024, the project has implemented a harmonised monitoring system across Austria, Spain, Sweden, and Finland, combining drone, satellite, and field data to support the development of early warning tools for drought, insect damage, snow impacts, and long-term stress. In parallel, the team has advanced climate resilient management strategies and developed operational practices that improve harvesting efficiency, wood quality assessment, engineered wood prototypes and supply planning. In 2026, OptiForValue will continue its stakeholder engagement through a number of events. This year will also see continued delivery of important scientific results, progress across case studies, participation in conferences (including FORMEC 2026), and growing collaboration with relevant forestry projects. The consortium will also meet in September in Spain, where partners will visit the Case Study 2 site. Olga Ormond, Senior Project Manager at ERINN Innovation, leads Comms in WP6: “I really enjoy being part of the OptiForValue consortium because it brings together strong partners who are committed to improving how we understand and manage our forests and timber resources. This work has also given me a deeper appreciation of the years of growth and effort behind the forest products in our everyday lives. Being involved in this project aligns perfectly with ERINN’s mission and my own passion for turning robust science into insights that shape better policy, industry practice, and sustainability outcomes.” Trees4Adapt: Tree-based Solutions 4 Climate Change Adaptation & Biodiversity Conservation The Trees4Adapt project launched in October 2025 with the consortium meeting in Helsinki for an in person kick off meeting. Here, partners set priorities and explored how tree-based solutions can help Europe adapt to the combined risks of climate change and biodiversity loss. The team also visited the Satakunta tree species diversity experiment in western Finland, one of the world’s longest running forest diversity trials. The Trees4Adapt website will go live in March, and 2026 marks the start of fieldwork across the TreeDivNet and FunDivEUROPE study sites and the three case study regions in Finland, Germany and Portugal. Several important deliverables are also expected, including an assessment of ecological and socioeconomic risks in each case study, and a conceptual framework exploring the economics of tree-based solutions in forestry and agriculture. The early co-creation activities with stakeholders will continue, helping ensure that the project’s scientific results are grounded in real needs and practical contexts. Mathilde Vidal, Senior Project Officer at ERINN Innovation, is the WP5 Communications Lead: “Trees4Adapt is a project I am genuinely glad to be part of. It addresses the complex risks of climate change and biodiversity loss at a moment when their impacts are increasingly visible. As a biodiversity advocate, I see this work as a necessity. With such a strong and motivated team, I am hopeful that the project will bring forward effective tree-based solutions that help protect ecosystems and support resilience across Europe.” Explore ERINN Innovation’s portfolio of projects.
- Horizon Europe
- Proposals
February 26, 2026
Top 5 Tips for Writing a Winning Horizon Europe Bid
ERINN Innovation has the skills, knowledge and capacity to provide support at various stages of proposal development, including guidance on concept, project structure, consortium considerations, how to approach the Impact section and how to create a strong proposal overall. We believe that engaging with coordinators early in the proposal development phase enables us to provide better support leading to stronger proposals. Here are our Top 5 Tips for Writing a Winning Horizon Europe Bid. 1. Read the call topic clearly When it comes to writing a proposal for Horizon Europe, it is crucial to thoroughly read and understand the call topic. Many proposals suffer because they fail to align closely with the specific requirements outlined in the call. As human beings, we often have biases and tend to focus on the parts of our research that align with the call and overlook other essential aspects. Take the time to carefully read and analyse all elements of the call topic, and then go one step further. Start to analyse why certain terminology was included, question the phrasing and critically assess what the scope is asking for to ensure a robust understanding. 2. Consortium is key Consortium composition is at the basis of a successful proposal. When forming your consortium, carefully consider the expertise required for each work package and ensure that the participating organisations or individuals have a track record of excellence in their respective fields. The evaluators are assessing whether or not you can credibly drive European-level impact and complete project goals – it’s extremely hard to convince the evaluators this is possible if the whole value-chain is not represented or if the geographic spread is limited. 3. Complete your concept note before you start writing Before delving into the writing process, finalise your concept note as best as you can. This means outlining the work packages and objectives, and being clear about who is doing what. By completing the concept note first, you establish a strong foundation that guides the rest of your proposal, allowing you to organise your thoughts, identify any potential gaps or inconsistencies, and refine your project’s objectives and methodology. Adjustments to the design after the proposal has been written requires a huge amount of effort to cover your tracks and course correct. 4. Read it as an evaluator When you have completed your initial proposal draft, step into the shoes of an evaluator. Try to objectively assess your proposal, considering the evaluation criteria and the perspective of the reviewers, identifying inconsistencies, weaknesses or unclarities in the proposal. This is often easier said than done, so support can be provided by colleagues or external reviewers to provide that fresh perspective. 5. What we write, we have to implement Keep in mind that if your project is funded, you and your team will have to implement the project. Thus, it is crucial to assess the feasibility and coherence of your proposed activities and objectives, particularly those results that multiple work packages make use of/depend on for progression. Evaluators will also be assessing the viability of your proposal, and if it is deemed impractical or unrealistic, it will reduce your chances of receiving funding. Find the balance between writing a winning and innovative proposal, that will be meaningful and possible for your team to implement. Learn more about our services.
- Project News
February 4, 2026
AQUAEXCEL: Celebrating 14 Years of Collaboration
The conclusion of the AQUAEXCEL3.0 project in October 2025 marks not just the end of a major European initiative, but the culmination of 14 years of continuous collaboration, scientific progress, and shared ambition within the aquaculture community. Aquaculture plays a vital role in feeding Europe and the world, providing healthy food, supporting coastal communities, creating jobs, and easing pressure on wild fish stocks. Ensuring that this sector grows sustainably requires innovative science, modern tools, and strong cooperation, needs that the AQUAEXCEL projects were designed to meet. A 14-Year Journey of Collaboration Since the first project launched, AQUAEXCEL, followed by AQUAEXCEL2020 and AQUAEXCEL3.0, one of the most extensive and effective collaborative networks in European aquaculture research has been built. The projects’ shared vision was both ambitious and transformative: to make it possible for any aquaculture researcher, no matter where they work, to access Europe’s best facilities, expertise, and technologies. By opening world-class research infrastructures to external users and by connecting scientists, industry partners, and communities, the projects helped strengthen the European Research Area and supported the development of a more innovative, sustainable aquaculture sector. Turning this vision into reality required a culture of cooperation that grew stronger with each phase of the project series. Over the years, AQUAEXCEL initiatives worked to harmonise standards across institutions, promote best practices, and encourage collaboration between disciplines and countries. Networking activities brought people together, while joint research efforts advanced knowledge in critical areas such as ethical and welfare-oriented farming, real-time biotelemetry, virtual laboratory tools, microbiome monitoring, and techniques for emerging and alternative species. These developments provided researchers and industry with new ways to conduct experiments, improve fish welfare, and accelerate innovation. Reflecting on AQUAEXCEL’s Impacts The impact of these efforts is evident in the achievements delivered throughout the AQUAEXCEL projects. More than 360 fully funded Transnational Access (TNA) projects allowed researchers from across Europe and beyond to work inside 40 unique aquaculture facilities. These infrastructures, ranging from disease challenge units to systems designed for testing sustainable production methods, benefitted from broader usage, strengthened services, and increased relevance to industry needs. Alongside this, within AQUAEXCEL3.0, the project’s training activities reached nearly 800 participants, equipping them with advanced skills and knowledge that will continue to support the sector long after the project ends. Mobility grants enabled almost 30 aquaculture technicians to spend time inside partner laboratories, creating new professional links and strengthening technical expertise across institutions. The scientific outputs generated through AQUAEXCEL3.0 also extend well beyond academic research. By combining transnational access, networking, and focused joint research, the project delivered practical solutions that can be applied directly by farmers, researchers, and industry stakeholders. Whether improving welfare standards, supporting new technologies, or offering insights into sustainable farming practices, the project’s results contribute meaningful, tangible value to the aquaculture sector. ERINN Innovation’s Role ERINN Innovation has been a key contributor to the success and visibility of AQUAEXCEL3.0. We played a central role in communication, dissemination, and stakeholder engagement, helping to translate complex scientific outputs into accessible, practical information for policy makers, industry partners, and the wider public. Our work also ensured that the knowledge generated throughout the project reached the people and sectors who could benefit from it most. This knowledge transfer was delivered through substantial contributions to Work Package 2 (WP2). Our expertise in knowledge management and impact strategy helped showcase the value of the project’s research results, reinforce connections between science and industry, and support the long-term uptake of new tools, methods, and innovations developed throughout the project. By driving awareness, strengthening community engagement, and ensuring that AQUAEXCEL3.0’s achievements were widely shared, ERINN Innovation contributed significantly to the project’s lasting impact and legacy. This work and commitment has led to the development of the project’s Success Stories. This section serves as a testament to the impact of the Transnational Access program and the research activities that were facilitated by the project, showcasing the project’s transformative influence on the aquaculture landscape. Reflecting on her time with the project, ERINN Innovation Project Officer Karla Corrales said: “It has been deeply inspiring to drive the knowledge transfer activities within AQUAEXCEL3.0. Engaging directly with the researchers and compiling their Success Stories has given us a clear view of how the project’s resources have helped them significantly advance their research. Hearing these partners present their achievements firsthand at our final meeting truly proved the impact of the project.” The Project’s Legacy Although AQUAEXCEL3.0 concluded in 2025, the legacy of the entire AQUAEXCEL programme will continue. Over 14 years, the projects built a deeply connected European aquaculture community equipped with advanced tools, shared expertise, and strong partnerships. These foundations will support new discoveries and collaborations for years to come, ensuring that aquaculture remains innovative, resilient, and sustainable. Ultimately, the AQUAEXCEL journey has shown what is possible when researchers, industry, and communities work together. By opening access, sharing knowledge, and encouraging cooperation across borders and disciplines, the projects have helped strengthen Europe’s capacity to produce healthy food, support thriving coastal regions, and building a sustainable aquaculture sector for the future. Want to find out more about our services? Explore how ERINN Innovation can support your project.
About
ERINN Innovation is a value-driven company owned by the staff who support research and innovation to have impact.
Information
ERINN Innovation Ltd
Company No.: 600883 (Ireland)
Company No.: 600883 (Ireland)
Directors
David Murphy (IE/UK)
Laura Richardson (IE)
Marieke Reuver (NL)
Michael Papapetrou (GR/IE)
