The European Commission has announced the official Info Day for Horizon Europe Cluster 2: Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society. This online event, taking place on 26 March from 09:30 to 16:00 CET, is designed to inform potential applicants about the new research topics included in the 2026 work programme.
As Europe faces multifaceted social, economic, and technological transformations, Cluster 2 aims to provide evidence-based policy options for a socially just and inclusive green and digital transition. This Info Day is the opportunity for researchers, cultural institutions, and civil society organisations to understand the funding priorities before the 2026 calls open on 12 May 2026. The event will focus on the three “Destinations” of the Cluster 2 Work Programme. Speakers from the European Commission will present the topics for the upcoming calls and answer questions via Slido. The three “destinations are:
1. Democracy and Governance Focusing on reinvigorating democratic governance and trust. Key 2026 topics include tackling gender-based violence against politically active women, understanding local democracy in low-income countries, government in transition (civil service reform), and sustainable paths to media viability.
2. Cultural Heritage and the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) Focusing on better protection and promotion of European cultural heritage. New topics for 2026 will explore “Artistic Intelligence” (harnessing arts for innovation), boosting creative startups, AI integration in CCSI work practices, and safeguarding linguistic diversity in Europe.
3. Social and Economic Transformations Focusing on inclusive growth and reducing vulnerabilities. The 2026 agenda includes research on strengthening Europe’s social model, tackling child poverty, fostering competences for the green transition, and rethinking long-term care policy.
Matchmaking & Brokerage Opportunities
Online: The Net4SocietyHE project offers an online Community Platform for partner searches and matchmaking dedicated to Cluster 2.
On-site (Paris): In addition to the online Info Day, a dedicated Brokerage Event is scheduled for late May/early June in Paris, France. This will be an on-site opportunity to meet potential partners and pitch consortium ideas.
Practical Information
The official 2026-2027 Work Programme, outlining all topic descriptions and budgets, is expected to be published ahead of the calls opening. The main call is expected to open on 12 May 2026 and close on 23 September 2026.