As part of its continuous commitment to excellence in European project development, the CREDIT Vibes team successfully completed a specialized training course entitled “Training for Preparation and Writing Horizon Europe Twinning Projects”, organized by the EUTA Training Academy in Belgrade.
The two-day training, held on January 21 and January 30, 2026, provided comprehensive guidance on the preparation of competitive proposals under the Horizon Europe Twinning call. Four team members participated in the program: Dr. Milena Simić, Dr. Milan Brankov, Dr. Iva Savić, and MSc Milena Šenk.
In-Depth Understanding of the Twinning Call
The first session focused on a detailed overview and analysis of the Horizon Europe Twinning call, including invitation rules, specific requirements, and European Commission expectations. Participants explored strategies for selecting appropriate international partners and aligning project concepts with the objectives of the Twinning instrument.
Special attention was given to writing the key sections of a proposal:
- Excellence – defining clear objectives, presenting robust scientific methodology, and integrating cross-cutting priorities such as gender equality, open science, and data management.
- Implementation – structuring work packages, defining deliverables and milestones, and conducting risk analysis.
- Impact – demonstrating expected scientific, technological, economic, and societal benefits, along with clear measures for dissemination, communication, and exploitation of results.
The session also addressed evaluation criteria and the review process, supported by examples of Evaluation Summary Reports (ESRs). A discussion with Prof. Goran Stojanović provided additional expert insight into proposal evaluation and strategic positioning.
Focus on Budget Preparation under Lump Sum Rules
The second session, held online, concentrated on financial aspects of Twinning proposals, particularly the preparation of budgets under the new Lump Sum Grant model. Participants received step-by-step guidance on budgeting procedures and financial implementation rules specific to the Twinning instrument.
The training concluded with a discussion with Marija Šola Spasić and presentations of successfully funded Twinning projects, offering practical examples of good practice and valuable lessons learned.
Interactive and Practice-Oriented Approach
The course combined lectures, interactive discussions, case study analysis, and problem-solving exercises. Working sessions were supported by PowerPoint presentations and structured workshops that encouraged teamwork and direct engagement with experts.
Designed for researchers, institutional management, and administrative staff involved in Horizon Europe and national funding calls, the training provided both strategic and operational knowledge relevant to future project submissions.
By strengthening internal capacities in proposal writing, budgeting, and understanding evaluation procedures, the CREDIT Vibes team has further enhanced its readiness to participate in upcoming Horizon Europe Twinning calls and other competitive funding opportunities.
