New Zealand joins Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme, focuses on digital, climate, health and other areas

New Zealand has signed an association agreement with the EU’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, becoming the first non-geographically close partner to join. Horizon Europe is the largest EU research and innovation programme with a budget of €95.5 billion, open to participants from around the world.

This move signifies a new approach by the EU to strengthen ties with trusted partners with a strong scientific base and research track record. Formal relations between the EU and New Zealand in research and innovation date back to 2009. The association allows New Zealand researchers and organisations to participate in Pillar II of the programme, focused on shared global challenges in various sectors, including climate, energy, mobility, digital, industry and space, health, and more. They will have equal access to funding and networks of researchers in Europe and beyond.

This collaboration contributes to Europe’s global research and innovation cooperation approach and reaffirms the EU’s commitment to driving excellence and promoting global openness. The Horizon Europe programme has introduced a new approach to international cooperation, allowing association with like-minded countries outside the EU’s geographic proximity. Formal negotiations are ongoing with Canada, and talks have been launched with the Republic of Korea.