The Focus Group Training on “Essentials, Tips and Best Practices for Success in Cluster 6 – Circular Economy & Zero Pollution Calls” was successfully held on 11–12 June 2025 in Ankara, with the participation of researchers, SMEs, industry representatives, and other relevant stakeholders. The event was coordinated by TÜBİTAK Horizon Europe Cluster 6 National Contact Points, Ms. Meltem Ünlü Tokcaer and Ms. Çağla Akat Köse, and organized within the scope of the Technical Assistance for Türkiye in Horizon Europe Project.
The two-day training was delivered by Julia Bosse (Senior Business Development Manager at Leitat Research Institute), who provided an in-depth overview of the structure of the Horizon Europe Programme, proposal submission procedures, and evaluation criteria. Participants gained detailed insight into the overall framework of Horizon Europe and specifically Cluster 6 as well as the priorities of European Partnerships and strategic objectives of the programme.
Throughout the sessions, key topics were addressed, such as the relevance of the Multi-Actor Approach in proposal design, interpretation of call texts, evaluation processes, success factors, eligibility conditions, and evaluator expectations. Technical aspects including financial support to third parties, cascade funding, and the role of institutions such as the Joint Research Centre (JRC) were also discussed with concrete examples.
Participants engaged in hands-on group exercises to explore each step from idea generation to project concept design, including consortium building and identification of partner profiles. One of the strengths of the training was its interactive structure, combining theoretical input with practical writing exercises that enhanced participant capacity.
By the end of the intensive programme, participants had the opportunity to collaboratively design a draft proposal in line with an actual call. The focus group training series is expected to continue with similar programmes tailored to other Horizon Europe clusters.
