27 Oct 2026
Commission publishes participant survey on lump sum funding
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 Europe’s 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: