When managing EU research grants, it is not enough to perform good science, you need to comply with the conditions defined in your grant agreement. 

1. Count on your EU project officer

Your assigned EU project officer accompanies you during the implementation of your project. Establish a good relationship, and get in touch for any questions or doubts, but also to share activities and achievements.  

2. Collaborate with your partners

Encourage collaboration between your partners. Have a plan to handle possible disagreements and conflicts. 

3. Build a strong team

Enroll people with diverse profiles, backgrounds, skills and training, and delegate tasks you may feel less comfortable with. 

4. Master the resources and tools

Master the resources and tools available that can help you manage your project. 

5. Know your obligations

The grant agreement defines your obligations when receiving EU funding. Get fully involved in its preparation and become familiar with your obligations. 

6. Frame your working relationship & anticipate risks and changes

Prepare a consortium agreement to clarify the terms and conditions among your partners. Identify and mitigate possible risks and get to know what and how the grant agreement can be changed. 

7. Make the most of every meeting

Prepare well for the kick-off meeting and project review meetings. They are a good time to seek support, ask questions, discuss with your partners about anything related to your project, scientific or not. 

8. Be ready for every scenario

Be prepared for audits by keeping track of your project’s activities. 

9. Communicate, disseminate and exploit results

Comply with the obligations to communicate, disseminate, and exploit our research outcomes. The European Commission provides free-of-charge tools that can complement your communication, dissemination and exploitation efforts.

10. Report in time

Your grant reporting obligations are of key importance. Respect your reporting periods Report in due time and inform your EU project officer about the progress made, possible delays, changes in your original plan or objectives and any struggle. 

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