27 Oct 2026
ERC publishes preliminary figures on Starting Grant 2027 call
The European Research Council (ERC) received 7,710 applications for its 2027 Starting Grant call, a 60.4% increase compared with the previous competition. The call, which closed on 14 October 2026, marks the third consecutive annual rise in submissions, following increases of 22.4% for the 2026 call and 13% for 2025.
With a budget of €594 million earmarked for an estimated 373 grants, roughly one in 20 applicants is expected to receive funding.
Physical Sciences and Engineering attracted the largest share of proposals: 3,314 applications, or 43%. Social Sciences and Humanities followed with 2,220 (29%), while Life Sciences accounted for 2,176 (28%). Women submitted nearly 39% of all proposals.
However, the figures require careful interpretation. The ERC Scientific Council broadened the eligibility windows for the 2027 Starting and Consolidator Grant calls, allowing more researchers to apply. This change should be taken into account when comparing application numbers and assessing trends.
The ERC is now beginning its evaluation of the proposals. Projects selected for funding are expected to be announced in summer 2027.
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