On November 19, 2025, the EU Programmes Agreement (EUPA) was officially signed in Bern by Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin and EU Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva, marking a major milestone for Swiss research and innovation.
With immediate effect, Switzerland is now associated to Horizon Europe, the Euratom programme, and the Digital Europe Programme (DEP) retroactively from January 1, 2025. This means Swiss institutions and companies can fully participate in EU-funded projects under these programmes.
Looking ahead:
- ITER participation begins January 1, 2026
- Erasmus+ association expected from 2027
Although the EUPA signing precedes the broader Switzerland-EU package, it remains an integral part of that framework.
What Does This Mean for Swiss Researchers and Innovators?
- Grant agreements for positively evaluated proposals from 2025 calls can now be signed.
- Funding will come directly from the European Commission, with Switzerland contributing financially to the EU for this purpose.
- Swiss actors can coordinate collaborative projects again, starting with 2025 calls.
- Participation in mono-beneficiary projects—including ERC grants, EIC funding, and MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships—is fully restored.
This renewed access opens doors for Swiss universities, research centers, and companies to lead and collaborate on cutting-edge projects across Europe.
Stay Informed
For the latest updates, visit:
- https://www.sbfi.admin.ch
- https://www.euresearch.ch