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Horizon Europe Cluster 1 — Health (HLTH)

Novel Small-Molecule Antivirals for Epidemic-Potential Pathogens

Funds small-molecule antivirals that expand preparedness and treatment options for future viral epidemics and pandemics.

ScheduledEuropean CommissionEU

Emerging and re-emerging viral infections threaten European and global health, and climate change is accelerating emergence. This Research and Innovation Action strengthens the EU medical-countermeasures ecosystem by advancing small-molecule prophylactic and therapeutic candidates against a single specified virus or virus group.

Projects should select and state one permitted target group, then di

Develop novel or existing small-molecule antiviral candidates against exactly one permitted virus or virus group: Junin/Lassa; tick-borne encephalitis/Japanese encephalitis; Andes/Hantaan/Sin Nombre; Hendra; Enterovirus D68; or Venezuelan equine encephalitis. Cover discovery, optimisation, antiviral activity and resistance, animal or organoid models, GMP batches and first-in-human safety where appropriate. Antibodies and antibody-derived proteins are excluded.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Biennial
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.13 Apr 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.22 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€44.2M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: HORIZON-HLTH-2027-01-DISEASE-05Source: ec.europa.eu