Horizon Europe proposal preparation – key communication and dissemination activities to strengthen impact
15th April 2026 at 11:40 am
In Horizon Europe, excellent research alone is not enough. Evaluators expect proposals to demonstrate how project results will reach the right audiences, generate uptake and deliver measurable impact. Communication and dissemination are therefore not secondary activities. They are strategic measures that can strengthen both evaluation and implementation.
Based on our experience supporting numerous successful Horizon projects, the following activities consistently improve proposal quality and score highly under the impact criteria.
1. Start with a clear strategy, not a list
One of the most common weaknesses in proposals is a fragmented communication and dissemination approach. High-quality proposals clearly define who the target audiences are, why they matter, what messages are relevant for each group, and which channels will be used at specific stages of the project. Communication and dissemination should not be treated as a standalone work package; it must be directly linked to expected outcomes and impact pathways, demonstrating how communication and dissemination support the overall project objectives.
2. Align communication and dissemination with call expectations and project strengths
A strong proposal starts by analysing the call topic, including its expected outcomes and impacts, and identifying how communication and dissemination activities can directly support these objectives. Equally important is leveraging the consortium’s strengths, such as existing platforms, networks and well-established activities that partners can contribute to, which should be integrated into the plan. Outreach activities should also be linked to key milestones from the scientific work packages, ensuring communication is timely, results-driven and demonstrably aligned with project achievements. For each planned activity, proposals should also specify the key performance indicators (KPIs) and the target audience to ensure that progress and impact are clear to the evaluators.
3. Invest in a high-quality digital presence
Evaluators expect a professional digital presence that conveys credibility and accessibility. This includes a well-structured and regularly updated project website, relevant social media channels and content that is understandable to non-specialist audiences. The emphasis should be on clarity, usability and relevance, rather than simply maintaining an online footprint.
4. Focus on content that explains, not just reports
Dissemination in proposals should go beyond reporting outputs. High-quality proposals demonstrate plans for translating results into formats that are understandable and reusable, such as short articles, infographics, explanatory videos and targeted newsletters. The goal is to show evaluators that the project can effectively communicate complex results to multiple audiences.
5. Engage and involve stakeholders, don’t just reach them
Evaluator guidance increasingly emphasises stakeholder engagement and involvement. Effective proposals describe two-way communication through workshops, webinars, advisory boards and co-creation sessions. This approach demonstrates that the project is actively embedded in its ecosystem and responsive to stakeholder needs, increasing both relevance and potential impact.
6. Ensure strong scientific dissemination
Scientific dissemination remains essential in Horizon Europe proposals. Proposals should outline plans for publishing in high-quality, open-access journals, presenting at leading conferences and complying with open science principles. At the same time, they should demonstrate how these scientific results will be made accessible and useful beyond the academic community.
7. Include targeted media activities
Reaching wider audiences can enhance both impact and visibility. Proposals should outline realistic plans for press releases at key milestones and contributions to specialised media, including interviews or expert articles. The focus should be on targeting the most relevant channels for each audience.
8. Link communication to exploitation
Measures should actively support the uptake of project results. Proposals should explain how dissemination activities contribute to market adoption, policy influence or standardisation processes. Examples include policy briefs, industry workshops, demonstration events and direct engagement with end-users. This demonstrates that the project is designed to move results from awareness to application.
End-user engagement is key to impact. As shown in this EXPOSIM interview, Rani Claus (KUL) highlights how collaboration with firefighter brigades helped her translate research into practical, real-world solutions.
In sum, strong communication and dissemination in a Horizon Europe proposal is not about doing more, it is about doing the right things strategically. A well-structured plan demonstrates to evaluators that the project is capable not only of generating knowledge, but also of ensuring that this knowledge will maximise the impact.
Looking to strengthen your communication and dissemination strategy in Horizon Europe proposals?
At accelopment, we support consortia in designing strategic communication, dissemination and exploitation activities that are fully aligned with call expectations and impact pathways. From proposal preparation to project implementation, we work closely with partners to ensure that results reach the right audiences and translate into measurable impact. Beyond proposal writing, we act as a partner in Horizon Europe projects, delivering communication, dissemination, exploitation and project management services in the EU-funded projects. If you are preparing a Horizon Europe proposal or looking for a reliable communication, dissemination and exploitation or project management partner, feel free to get in touch with our team. We would be happy to discuss how we can support your project.
