📋 Tender Overview
The European Commission has published a survey on lump sum funding in Horizon Europe. Conducted in the first quarter of 2026, the survey received 17,462 replies from more than 139,000 invited contacts, a response rate of around 12%. Overall, 78% of respondents agreed that lump sums reduce their administrative burden, while 77% said they shift attention towards project content. Satisfaction with guidance and support reached 70%, and 74% were positive about project flexibility and payment arrangements.Researchers and administrative staff gave similarly positive assessments. SMEs and newcomers were particularly supportive: 83% viewed lump sums as a simplification, compared with 72% of research organisations.However, proposal preparation remains a challenge. Most respondents reported spending one to five days completing the detailed budget table. Coordinators faced a heavier workload, particularly in larger consortia. Written feedback also highlighted concerns about budget complexity and the quality of expert evaluators.Lump sums are set to account for 50% of Horizon Europes call budget in 2026 and 2027. The Commission will continue monitoring their implementation and explore improvements, including in preparation for the 2028-2034 programme.The report can be downloaded here:Lump Sum Funding in Horizon Europe
