In recent years, Malta has seen a significant leap in its research output. In the current Horizon Europe cycle alone (2021-2027), Maltese health researchers have secured nearly €8 million in funding. This represents a substantial increase compared to previous framework programmes and proves that our size is no barrier to excellence.As we enter the final major funding window for Horizon Europe, the opportunities for health researchers in Malta are unprecedented. From AI-driven diagnostics to pandemic preparedness and the EU Cancer Mission, the EU is looking for the specialised expertise that our local laboratories and clinics provide.What is Horizon Europe?Horizon Europe is the European Union’s flagship funding programme for research and innovation, with a total budget of €93.5 billion. It is designed to tackle global challenges like cancer, climate change and aging populations, while boosting Europe’s industrial competitiveness.For health researchers, the primary focus is the Health Cluster, which funds collaborative projects aimed at:Improving and protecting the health of citizens;Developing innovative solutions for the prevention and treatment of diseases;Making public health systems more resilient and sustainable.The “Omniscope” Success StoryYou don’t have to be a massive institution to lead in Europe. Take the example of Omniscope, a Maltese biotechnology company currently playing a pivotal role in the Hope4PCOS project. Their experience highlights why local entities should look beyond our shores:“HORIZON EUROPE allows Maltese partners to fully fund ambitious R&D collaborations with European partners. It has been an important source of both funding and collaborations for Omniscope and we look forward to joining more exciting HORIZON EUROPE projects and consortia going forward.” – Omniscope Ltd.Navigating the Maze: Xjenza Malta is Here to HelpThe path to Horizon Europe funding is rigorous, but Maltese researchers do not have to walk it alone. Xjenza Malta acts as a dedicated support infrastructure, offering expert guidance through every stage of the lifecycle. From initial call identification to final submission, our National Contact Points work to lower the barriers to entry for local innovators.We can help you:Identify the Right Call – Matching your specific research niche (biotech, patient safety, digital health) to the 2026-2027 work programmes;Find Your Consortium – Connecting you with international coordinators looking for Maltese partners;Proposal Support – Providing technical reviews to make your application more competitive;Financial Schemes – Assisting with local support schemes like HIPAS or NET2HE to help cover travel and networking costs. Xjenza Malta can help you stay ahead of the curveThe most successful projects are the ones that start early. To ensure you don’t miss out on the final wave of Horizon Europe calls, we invite you to take the following steps:1. Subscribe to the Horizon Health Mailing List and receive direct alerts on “Partner Searches” upcoming brokerage events, and tailored updates on the work programmes. Enrol here ;2. The Health Work Programme has all the details of the available calls in the health cluster including deadlines and budget. Click here for more information;3. Direct Expert Advice Do you have a project idea or want to know if your current research is “Horizon-ready”? Reach out for an informal discussion or to request more information on the application process.Ayrton Barbara Horizon Europe National Contact Point for Malta in Health and Research Infrastructures.Xjenza Malta Email: ayrton.barbara.1@gov.mtShare this with someone in medical tech•